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what is split face concrete block

by Alvina Hodkiewicz Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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  • Split-face concrete blocks have one or more textured sides exposing the inner aggregates to mimic natural stone.
  • Project prices depend on the design and finishing options.
  • Split-face blocks are highly porous and need sealing or ventilation outlets.

Split-Face Block, Split-Faced Block & Rock-Faced Block all mean the same thing: A concrete building unit which appears to have been hand-chiseled (or “split”) to give it a very textured look. In reality, the concrete slurry is poured into a form with the texture already built into it.

Full Answer

How much do split face blocks cost?

The average cost for installing split face block ranges from $10.35 to $12.60 per square foot, according to Homewyse.com. On Angie’s List, one expert said you should be prepared to spend $10 to $20 per square foot, depending on your soil condition and how high you want to build the wall.

What are all these problems with split faced block?

Split faced block is very porous and must be properly flashed and even sealed or water will just travel right through it. The high moisture content of the block allows water to enter the interior of the walls and wet the wall cavity behind the drywall. This causes mold growth and wood rot.

What size is split face block?

  • Ideal for foundations and walls
  • Standard tan color
  • Strong and versatile
  • Factory cured to meet or exceed ASTM C-90, certified for strength and absorption
  • Resembles texture of natural, weathered stone
  • Color may vary by production run. Please purchase entire projects at one time.
  • Nominal size concrete

Why does split face block?

Splitface Concrete Blocks. Splitface Concrete Blocks have a deep textured relief which gives depth to the unit while also exposing the inner aggregates. This lends itself to customization through the use of different colored aggregates. Both structural an non-structural Splitface concrete blocks are available.

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What is split face concrete?

Splitface Concrete Blocks have a deep textured relief which gives depth to the unit while also exposing the inner aggregates. This lends itself to customization through the use of different colored aggregates. Both structural an non-structural Splitface concrete blocks are available.

What does split block mean?

Block splits apart to fit around existing pipes and vents.

What is a split faced wall?

Split face is a broad term used in the building materials industry for any material that has been broken or split to expose a rougher surface.

Is split face block on both sides?

Split faced block was commonly used as the exterior wall cladding on the sides and rear of 3, 6 and 8 unit condominium buildings and some single family houses with the front of the buildings, usually, being covered with brick or stone.

Why is it called split face block?

Split-Face Block, Split-Faced Block & Rock-Faced Block all mean the same thing: A concrete building unit which appears to have been hand-chiseled (or “split”) to give it a very textured look. In reality, the concrete slurry is poured into a form with the texture already built into it.

Do you need to seal split face block?

Building owners in Middleburg, PA should invest in waterproofing for split face concrete blocks every five to seven years. Since split face blocks are very porous, waterproofing is a common preventative maintenance service that minimizes the blocks' exposure to water damage.

How do you make a split face block?

How is Split Face Block Made?Step one: Combine two or more blocks. Split Face block is made first by manufacturing two or more blocks as one larger unit. ... Step two: Split the blocks to expose aggregates. ... Step three: Seal regularly. ... Step four: Enjoy the benefits.

How do you seal split face blocks?

0:131:28Applying Sealer to Split Face Cinder Block Brick - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo basically all of this type of cinderblock brick. Especially this split based brand. Type style itMoreSo basically all of this type of cinderblock brick. Especially this split based brand. Type style it has to be filled with a sealer.

How much does a split face cinder block cost?

about $3 eachSplit-Face Block Prices per Block/CMU The price for standard units is about $3 each. Non-standard versions are available in other sizes and styles for $3 to $5 each.

What size is split face block?

FIND SPLIT FACE BLOCKS IN AN ASSORTMENT OF SHAPES AND SIZES Typical standard finish dimensions are 7 5/8” x 15 5/8”, while nominal bed depth sizes include 4″, 6″, 8″, 10″ and 12″.

Can you stain split face block?

A: Brick, block, mortar, natural and manufactured stone, concrete, cast stone, precast, tilt-up precast, and more can be stained to look very natural. Porous masonry that will accept water should work with typical water-based, professional-grade stains.

What are the different types of concrete blocks?

There are two primary concrete block categories: hollow and solid. Both of these concrete block types are typically used during the construction of walls, but can be used for other purposes as well. Not all solid concrete blocks are fully solid, as you'll see, but they're more solid than hollow blocks are.

What is splitface concrete?

Splitface Concrete Blocks have a deep textured relief which gives depth to the unit while also exposing the inner aggregates. This lends itself to customization through the use of different colored aggregates. Both structural an non-structural Splitface concrete blocks are available. Splitface concrete blocks are available a variety of both common and specialty concrete block sizes.

How long is a standard block?

Standard block are run on a per job basis and are available with a four to six week lead time.

What is split faced concrete?

Split faced concrete blocks, unlike smooth faced ones, are extremely rough. Depending on how many rough sides are desired, the molds that create these ones keep the block connected but scored at the top to provide the place where a chisel will break the concrete. Once the blocks have cured they pass under a high pressure, mechanical chisel-like machine that splits the concrete and reveals the rough insides.

What is a fluted concrete block?

Up next are split ribbed concrete blocks, sometimes referred to as fluted concrete blocks. Similar to split faced ones, these blocks are made from splitting a large block into smaller ones, exposing a rough surface. However, the molds used to create these blocks leave spaces in between the concrete, giving it a ribbed appearance.

What are the different types of concrete blocks?

You’ve got your smooth faced, your split faced, your scored blocks, your fluted blocks, your shot blast blocks and within all of those you’ve got double sided, single sided, corner blocks, chimney blocks, window blocks, and a whole bunch of others. It’s quite overwhelming really. But today, we’re hoping to make the concrete block world feel a little less daunting for you by breaking down the basics.

How is single sided concrete made?

Single sided split concrete is made when one large smooth faced block is scored once and broken into two pieces. Double sided split concrete is made when a large piece of concrete get scored ...

What is the difference between split face block and concrete block?

Our licensed mason contractors get asked about the differences between Split-Face Block and Concrete Block all the time. In truth, there is no material difference between the two (and we mean that literally). Only the surface texture differentiates the two types of blocks.

What is split face block?

Split-Face Blocks have a rough texture, which makes for a more aesthetically pleasing look on large exterior walls (like what you find on the side and rear walls of many 3-flats and 6-flats built in the Chicagoland area over the last 20 years).

Why use concrete blocks?

Builders and developers warmly embrace the use of concrete block because it permits a greatly accelerated rate of building, thereby reducing the cost of construction. (Depending on its depth, a single concrete block can be used in lieu of 18 bricks.)

What is the minimum compressive strength of a split face concrete block?

Note: Split face and concrete masonry units are specified to meet ASTM C90 by manufacturers, the Standard Specification for Loadbearing Concrete Blocks and should meet the minimum net area compressive strength of 1900 psi.

What type of mortar is used for split face concrete?

The typical mortar used in the construction for split face and concrete block walls is type ‘N’ mortar . The mix is 1-part Portland, 1-part lime, 6 parts of sand, and water. This is the general mix, used in above grade, exterior, and interior load-bearing applications and has a minimum compressive-strength of 750 psi. After 28 days of curing, the strength can increase between 1,500 and 2,400 psi. When the mortar exceeds the compression strength of the concrete block wall, the blocks may begin to develop cracks. More damage is incurred in the winter months with the freezing and thawing due to changing of the temperatures.

What type of joists are used for a block?

Typical joists are engineered-wood trusses and installed with metal gusset plates underneath to avoid damaging the block when the loads are applied. This includes the installation of through-wall flashing ( see sketch 4, Parapet Detail ).

How long does it take for concrete to cure?

The average curing period for concrete is between 21 to 28 days. This makes the block susceptible to developing hairline cracks (i.e. creeping cracks), which can lead to water leakage through the void’s units during rainstorms.

What is a hollow core block?

The most common blocks are the hollow, concrete units that contain voids (or cores) in the interior of the block which help reduce weight and aid installation. On average, the cores are greater than 25% of the gross surface. These cores can be one or a few cell openings based on the construction requirements and manufacturer specifications. As mentioned above, the hollow-core blocks are lighter to handle, easier to install, and are the majority used in exterior construction.

Is concrete masonry more porous than brick?

Single-split face blocks and concrete blocks (AKA: CMU for concrete masonry unit) are highly porous. In comparison, being more porous than brick, limestone, granite, and other building exterior wall materials. At a close glance, one can notice the spongy appearance of the block. The small surface voids create avenues for moisture to penetrate by capillary pressure ( see photos 1 and 2) and migrate into the material.

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