HOW TO MOULD CHEAPER AND QUALITY CONCRETE BLOCKS.
The demand for quality building materials in Nigeria continues to rise as urbanization and construction projects expand across the country. One of the most essential materials in building construction is the concrete block. However, the high cost of blocks can be a challenge for builders and homeowners. Fortunately, with the right techniques and materials, it is possible to mould cheaper and high-quality blocks while maintaining durability and strength.
1. Understanding the Right Block Composition
Concrete blocks are made from a mixture of cement, sand, gravel, and water. The right ratio of these materials determines the quality and cost-effectiveness of the blocks. A standard mix ratio for making strong blocks is:
- Cement: 1 part
- Sharp Sand: 6 parts
- Gravel (if available): 1 part
- Water: Just enough to make the mixture workable
Using a good mix ratio ensures that the blocks are strong and durable.
2. Sourcing Affordable and Quality Raw Materials
To reduce production costs, sourcing materials locally is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Buy cement in bulk from wholesalers to get discounts.
- Use sharp sand from a trusted supplier to ensure it’s free from impurities like clay and organic matter.
- Consider alternative aggregates like crushed stones or laterite if available in your area.
3. Using Block Moulding Machines
Manual block moulding is labor-intensive and often produces inconsistent blocks. Investing in a block moulding machine, whether manual or semi-automatic, helps produce uniform, well-compacted blocks and reduces labor costs in the long run.
4. Proper Curing for Strength
Curing is the process of keeping the blocks moist to allow them to gain maximum strength. To ensure durability:
- Water the blocks at least twice a day for 7–14 days.
- Store them in a shaded area to prevent excessive drying that can cause cracks.
5. Reducing Costs with Stabilized Earth Blocks (SEBs)
An alternative to regular cement blocks is Stabilized Earth Blocks (SEBs), which use a mix of laterite soil and cement (about 5–10% cement). These blocks are cheaper and environmentally friendly while still being strong enough for construction.
6. Quality Control Measures
Ensuring the quality of your blocks is vital to avoid losses and maintain a good reputation in the market. Consider the following:
- Conduct a drop test (blocks should not break easily when dropped from waist height).
- Check the weight and density (good blocks should be heavy and solid, not hollow or brittle).
- Perform a water absorption test (dip a block in water; excessive absorption indicates poor quality sand or mix ratio).
7. Marketing and Selling Your Blocks
Once you start producing quality blocks at a lower cost, you can make profits by selling to builders and contractors. Strategies to market your blocks include:
- Advertising on social media and local online marketplaces.
- Networking with construction companies and site engineers.
- Offering discounts for bulk purchases.
Conclusion
Moulding cheaper and quality blocks in Nigeria is possible with the right material selection, proper mix ratio, use of machines, and good curing methods. By following these guidelines, you can save costs while ensuring strong and durable blocks suitable for construction purposes. If you’re looking to start a block-making business, investing in efficiency and quality will guarantee long-term success.
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