Such materials are quite popular in our time, in the manufacture of which natural components are used that have strength, reliability and ease of use. One of them are tongue-and-groove blocks. Each product has a rectangular or trapezoidal groove, with the help of which a quick and reliable construction of walls is made. They are used in the construction of both load-bearing walls and inter-apartment or interior partitions.
Types of tongue-and-groove blocks and their characteristics
According to the method of application, the tongue-and-groove blocks are divided into two types - wall and internal.
The first are used for the construction of load-bearing walls, their structural material is cellular concrete. Such products have heat resistance, frost resistance, fire resistance. Wall blocks do not require additional reinforcement and have good sound insulation.
Internal tongue-and-groove blocks are intended for the construction of interior partitions. They are made on the basis of an astringent component - gypsum with the use of special additives. Standard and moisture resistant tongue-and-groove gypsum blocks are produced. They have a solid or hollow structure, various sizes and a rectangular shape.
Moisture-resistant (hydrophobized) blocks can be used in rooms with high humidity (bathroom, toilet). These products are of such quality as maintaining optimal temperature conditions. These products are made of environmentally friendly materials and are absolutely harmless to human health. They relate to non-combustible materials and are also a good insulator. The most popular are blocks with dimensions of 500x250 mm, 667x500 mm and a width of 80 mm or 100 mm.
Benefits of Gypsum Blocks
The main advantages of gypsum tongue-and-groove blocks include:
- Presentable appearance. Products do not require compulsory decoration. Immediately after their installation, gluing or painting of the surface can be carried out.
- Easy installation. Blocks are easy to glue. Due to their low weight, they can be laid independently without outside help.
- Ease of use. Plaster blocks are well sawn, cut, planed.
- Environmentally friendly material. Products are non-toxic, odorless, do not affect human health.
Scope of tongue-and-groove blocks
The main purpose of gypsum blocks is the construction of interior partitions and other non-bearing structures. They are used in any premises, regardless of their purpose. These products are non-toxic, fireproof, have no odors, do not conduct electric current and meet all safety requirements. There are tongue-and-groove blocks, the price of which depends on many factors and can vary, from 190 rubles for 1 pc. and higher. The material is often used in the construction of kindergartens, schools, medical institutions, residential buildings.
Installation of gypsum blocks
Before mounting, the tongue-and-groove blocks are subjected to 48-hour adaptation in a working room with normal humidity and air temperature above 5 degrees. The installation of partitions from these products is carried out after the completion of the construction of load-bearing structures and enclosing elements. They are installed on the finished floor screed. Blocks are laid with a groove up or down on a special adhesive (it is desirable that the manufacturer of glue and blocks be the same) with alternate overlapping of joints.
To ensure strength, the partition should be fixed to the supporting structures. Installation is carried out using dowels. The gap formed between the ceiling and the top row of blocks must be filled with putty. To increase the sound insulation level to the ceiling and the walls in contact with the partition, it is worth sticking an elastic gasket 3-5 mm from bitumen felt or cork.