Durox aircrete blocks

High performance for a faster build

contents
Benefits 1
Product selector 4
Durox Supabloc 5
Durox System 7
Durox Foundation 8
Durox Coursing bricks 10
Durox Floor 11
Durox Coursing slips 12
Application 13
Walls below DPC 13
Internal walls 13
Separating walls 13
Durox in flats 16
External walls 17
Thermal insulation 17
Code for Sustainable Homes 21
Design 27
Safe handling 27
Movement control 27
Mortar 27
Wall ties 28
Specification 28
Benefits

Durox aircrete is a modern construction material, whose versatility and

light weight make it the ideal solution for a wide variety of applications in
all types of building. It can be used below ground in foundation walls, in
suspended beam and block floors and in all types of internal and external
walls. Its use provides many benefits for specifiers and users making it the
natural choice where blockwork is specified.

Excellent Technical Performance SAVE MONEY SAVE TIME

Durox aircrete blocks have a low Faster Durox build-time means At 620mm long, Durox is 40%
thermal conductivity which aids lower construction costs. longer than conventional size
compliance with Part L Thermal blocks meaning fewer units
Due to fewer mortar joints,
Standards as well as Code for to lay and less mortar to use.
mortar savings up to 22% can
Sustainable Homes requirements. Independently monitored trials
be made when compared to
Standard cavity widths of 75mm have demonstrated that Durox
conventional size blocks.
can be built to meet U-values of Supabloc is over 20% faster to
0.30 W/m2K or better. The lightness of Durox means build with than conventional size
more blocks per load resulting in aircrete blocks and over 30%
Durox can be used in
lower transportation costs per m2 faster than dense blocks.
specifications to meet the
to site.
requirements of Part E Sound Use of thin joint blockwork using
Insulation for houses and flats, The excellent thermal conductivity Durox System can yield
including compliance with Robust of Durox can result in a reduction exceptionally fast build times with
Detail specifications. in the amount of cavity insulation many other associated benefits.
required to meet U-values.
The environmental performance
of Durox can help to achieve Walls below ground constructed
compliance with the Code for with Durox Foundation blocks are
Sustainable Homes including not only quick to build, but when
ratings in accordance with the compared to conventional cavity
Green Guide to Specification. walls, their use avoids the cost of
forming cavities, concrete infill
Compressive strengths of 3.6, 4.2,
and wall ties.
7.3 and 8.7N/mm2 cover virtually
all structural needs and meet
Case study: Cambridge Housing Society
Category 1 manufacturing
control requirements. Tarmac Topblocks Durox System with thin
joint mortar helped Cambridge Housing
Durox can be used with
Society to construct a new development
conventional or thin joint mortar of 6 residential properties in record time
construction. with exceptionally accurate and
cost-effective results.

1
 WORKABILITY
Durox products are very good to work
with as they are light, easy to handle
and quick to install.
They are easily cut, chased and
fixed into.
They can be finished with render,
cladding, plaster or drylining.
Durox System, thin joint blockwork, is
particularly suited to the application of
thin-coat spray plasters and renders.
2
ENVIRONMENTAL & QUALITY
Durox is manufactured under a
strictly controlled manufacturing
process supported by an
Environmental and Quality
Management System conforming to
ISO 14001 and ISO 9001 respectively.
Durox blocks are recyclable and
contain recycled material.
highest standards
All Durox products are BSI Kitemarked
to EN 771-4, and are manufactured
under a quality system complying
with ISO 9001. Durox blocks
are Category 1 masonry units in
accordance with BS 5628-1. This
allows an enhanced partial safety
factor to be used for the material
strength in design calculations. Durox
Floor is covered by British Board of
Agrment Certificate (BBA) 97/3371,
while all other Durox products are
covered by BBA Certificate 00/3776.
THE PRODUCTS
Durox Supabloc
Durox System
Durox Foundation
Durox Coursing bricks
Durox Floor
Durox Coursing slips
BS EN 771-4 CERTIFICATE No. 00/3776
Appearance
Durox blocks have a white, medium
textured surface. Each product type is
supplied in shrink-wrapped packs for
protection and easy identification on
site. In addition high strength blocks are
colour coded on one perpend with paint
as shown below.
Product Colour
Supabloc None
Supabloc 4* Brown
Supabloc 7 Black
Supabloc 10 Red
Notes * These blocks are face marked with a
zig-zag line on both working faces
(see below) to aid identification when
built into a separating wall.
Sustainability
AllTopblock manufacturing
plants operate an Environmental
Management System (EMS)
conforming to ISO:14001. All sites
are independently certified for
compliance by BSI.
Use of Durox products supported
by a certified EMS provides the
evidence to comply with the
Responsible Sourcing element of the
Code for Sustainable Homes. This
together with a responsible supply
chain allows Durox to contribute
in a number of ways towards
sustainable construction.
Summary Green Guide ratings
applicable to Durox constructions
can be found in the BRE Green
Guide to Specification.
3
Durox product selector
620mm

Walls (standard mortar) 215mm

215mm

70mm
Application
Cavity inner leaves, solid external walls and internal walls Durox Supabloc Durox Coursing bricks

Separating walls Durox Supabloc 4

Durox Supabloc 7

Higher strength loadbearing walls Durox Supabloc 4

Durox Supabloc 7 Durox Coursing bricks
Durox Supabloc 10

Walls (thin joint mortar)

620mm 620mm

214mm 299mm

Application
Cavity inner leaves, solid external walls and internal walls Durox System 500 Durox System 500

Separating walls Durox System 600 Durox System 600

Higher strength loadbearing walls Durox System 700 Durox System 700

280mm
350mm or 620mm 280mm
Foundations 310mm 300mm or
300mm
620mm

215mm 215mm
140mm

Application
Solid walls below dpc Durox Foundation Durox Foundation Durox Foundation
Durox Foundation 7 Durox Foundation 7 Durox Foundation 7

The Durox Foundation range can support cavity walls above ground ranging from 280mm to 350mm width.

Floors 530mm or
215mm 620mm
115mm
215mm
100mm

Application
Beam and block floors Durox Floor Durox Coursing slips

4
Durox Supabloc

Supablocs combine low unit weight
with high thermal insulation and
acoustic performance, in strengths of
3.6, 4.2, 7.3 and 8.7 N/mm2.
Durox Supabloc is recommended for
general-purpose walling applications
including inner leaves, solid external
walls, internal partitions and walls
below DPC. They are particularly
suited for cavity and solid wall
construction that require low
U-values to be met. The use of
Supabloc will minimise the amount
of additional thermal insulation
required, compared to the use of
denser blocks.
Durox Supabloc 4 is recommended Like all Durox products Supabloc
for use in separating walls including 10 is produced to Category 1
those conforming to Robust Details manufacturing control as defined
E-WM-6 and E-WM-15, as well as in BS 5628-1. This can provide
other key applications such as the an equivalent wall strength
rendered outer leaf of cavity walls, to conventional 10.4N/mm2
and in loadbearing situations where a blocks produced to less rigorous
4.2N/mm2 strength block is demanded. manufacturing control.
Durox Supabloc 7 is suitable for more
demanding loadbearing applications
whilst retaining the characteristic low
unit weight of aircrete. It may also
be used in separating walls including
those conforming to Robust Details
E-WM-6 and E-WM-15.

Size and unit weights

Block WIDTH (mm)

50** 70 100 115 125 140 150 200 215

SUPABLOC
Unit Weight (kg) 1.6 4.4 6.3 7.3 7.9 8.8 9.5 12.6 13.6
Laid Weight (kg/m ) 2
29 39 55 64 69 77 83 111 119
SUPABLOC 4
Unit Weight (kg) - - 8.7 10.0 - 12.1 13.0 17.4 18.6
Laid Weight (kg/m ) 2
- - 72 83 - 100 108 143 154
SUPABLOC 7
Unit Weight (kg) - - 9.3 10.7 11.7 13.1 14.0 18.6 20.1
Laid Weight (kg/m2) - - 77 88 110 107 115 153 165
SUPABLOC 10
Unit Weight (kg) - - 9.9 - - 13.8 - - -
Laid Weight (kg/m ) 2
- - 80 - - 113 - - -
Notes **Working size = 310 x 215mm
(i) Unit and laid weights, which are given for design purposes, are approximate and calculated based on the specified
dry density with a moisture content of 3% by weight added to provide equilibrium weights.
(ii) Dimensional tolerance to BS EN 771-4: Length +3/-5mm, width +3/-3mm, height +3/-5mm.

5
 Durox Supabloc
Fire
Durox blocks provide excellent
periods of fire resistance which
can satisfy building regulations and
other imposed requirements e.g.
insurers.
All Durox products conform to a fire
rating of Class A1 to BS EN 13501-
1:2002.
Typical fire resistance values for
Durox constructions are shown and
are based on the UK National Annex
to Eurocode 6: Design of masonry
structures (Part 1-2).
Sound insulation
Durox blocks may be used to
provide acoustic insulation between
internal rooms. The Building
Regulations Approved Document E
requires certain internal walls and
floors in dwellings to meet a
performance standard of 40 Rw dB.
This can be met, for example, using
100mm Supabloc finished with
plaster or drylining. Sound reduction
values of other Durox products are
shown in the table opposite.
For further advice including use in
seperating wall constructions, please
refer to page 13.
6
Technical properties
Supabloc Supabloc 4 Supabloc 7 Supabloc 10
FACE SIZE (mm)
620 x 215 for all products
Mean compressive strength to BS EN 771-4 (N/mm2)
3.6 4.2 7.3 8.7
Material dry density (kg/m3)
460 630 680 720
Thermal conductivity (W/mK) @ 3% moisture content
0.11 0.16 0.19 0.19
REACTION TO FIRE
Class A1 for all products
Typical PRODUCT air tightness (m3/(hr/m2)@ 50 Pa)
0.12 for all products
Fire resistance of walls single leaf wall
Fire resistance, no finish (hours) 1 2 4
Supabloc: minimum WIDTH (mm)
loadbearing 100 125 150
non-loadbearing 70 70 150
Supabloc 4, 7 or 10: minimum WIDTH (mm)
loadbearing 100 100 150
non-loadbearing 100 100 100
Sound reduction values single leaf wall
Finish No Lightweight Drylining
finish plaster
Supabloc: weighted sound reduction index, Rw dB
100mm 38 41 40
140mm 41 43 43
215mm 46 48 48
Supabloc 4: weighted sound reduction index, Rw dB
100mm 40 41 42
140mm 44 46 46
215mm 49 50 50
Supabloc 7 & 10: weighted sound reduction index, Rw dB
100mm 41 44 43
140mm 45 47 47
215mm 50 51 51
Notes (i) Finishes to both wall faces are assumed.
(ii) Values are based on technical assessment and tests to BS EN 140.
Durox System
System is a fast-build method
that allows rapid construction of
blockwork offering the potential
for better construction and enabling
early commencement of the
finishing trades. System comprises
dimensionally accurate 620mm long
Durox blocks for use with quick
setting thin-layer mortar.
System 600 or 700 may be used
in cavity separating walls built to
Robust Details E-WM-10 and
E-WM-13. For further details refer
to the Durox System brochure.
Technical properties
System System System
500 600 700

Application MEAN compressive strength to BS EN 771-4 (N/mm2)

Manufactured in a range of
strengths and coursing heights,
System may be used for solid,
inner leaf and partition walls in
all types of buildings. System is
particularly suitable for housing and
commercial projects where long
runs of blockwork yield maximum
productivity gains.
3.6 4.2 7.3
Material dry density (kg/m ) 3
460 630 680
Thermal conductivity (W/mK) @ 3% moisture content
0.11 0.16 0.19
REACTION TO FIRE
Class A1 for all products
Typical PRODUCT airtightness (m3/hr/m2 @ 50 Pa)
0.12 for all products

Size and unit weights (kg)

Block WIDTH (mm)
100 125 140 200 215
System 500 coursing heights
214mm 6.3* 7.7 8.8 12.6* 13.5
299mm 8.8* 11.0 12.3 - 18.9
System 600 coursing heights
214mm 8.6 10.8 12.1 - 18.5
299mm 12.1 15.1 16.8 - -
System 700 coursing heights
214mm 9.3 - 13.0 18.5 -
299mm 13.0 - 18.2 - -

Notes (i) Unit weights are approximate

and calculated based on the
specified dry density with
a moisture content of 3% by
weight added to provide
equilibrium weights.
(ii) Tolerance to BS EN 771-4:
Height +2/-2mm.
(iii) *Stock items. Other sizes
normally available within
3 weeks, subject to minimum
quantities.

7
 Durox Foundation
Foundation blocks are produced sulfate soil conditions and Foundation
specifically for use below DPC in solid (7.3 N/mm2) is suitable for use in Class
walls. Its use replaces the inner and DS-1 to DS-3 sulfate soil conditions
outer leaf, wall ties and concrete as confirmed by British Board of
cavity fill associated with traditional Agrment Certificate No. 00/3776.
build methods. Construction time
The appropriate thickness of Durox
can be halved compared to cavity
Foundation should be selected to
construction and the Foundation wall
suit the width of cavity or solid wall
becomes stable soon after laying,
that requires supporting
allowing the early start of above
above DPC.
ground work.
In response to increasing standards of
energy efficiency, Durox Foundation Insulation
blocks 350mm x 310mm x 215mm
have been introduced. These blocks Screed
can accommodate cavity walls above
ground of up to 350mm width whilst DPC
maintaining a conventional block
bedding height.

Applications
Foundation can be used to
support cavity, solid walls or
frame constructions.
Because of its excellent insulating
properties, the product contributes
towards the perimeter insulation of Durox Foundation
ground floors. See page 20 for typical
U-values.
Durox Foundation blocks below DPC
Durox Foundation (3.6 N/mm2) is
suitable for use in Class DS-1 and DS-2

Installation
For below ground use (excluding work in retaining or basement walls), Foundation blocks can be used with unfilled vertical
joints, provided the blocks are built with their ends closely butted together to restrict the passage of vermin. This advice is
consistent with the guidance given in BRE information paper IP7/05. The blockwork should be set out to achieve adequate
block bonding at corners. A typical solution is shown below.

310mm

125mm
125mm

Corner bonding of Tarmac Foundation Wall 310mm width

8
Technical properties
FOUNDATION

MEAN compressive strength to BS en 771-4 (N/mm2)

3.6 7.3
Material dry density (kg/m3)

460 680
Thermal conductivity (W/mK) @ 3% moisture content
0.11 0.19

280mm
280mm or
or 620mm 350mm 300mm
300mm 310mm 620mm

215mm 215mm
140mm

Size and unit weights (kg)

Block width (mm)

Foundation 3.6 N/mm2 280 300 310 350 280 300
Unit Weight (kg) 17.7 19.0 11.1 11.1 11.5 12.3
Laid Weight (kg/m2) 155 166 177 200 163 175

Foundation 7.3 N/mm2

Unit Weight (kg) 26.2 28.0 16.4 16.4 17.0 18.3
Laid Weight (kg/m ) 2
214 229 242 273 221 237

No. of blocks required per m of wall 2

7.1 7.1 12.3 13.9 10.6 10.6
Notes (i) Unit and laid weights, which are given for design purposes, are approximate and calculated based on the specified dry density with a
moisture content of 3% by weight added to provide equilibrium weights.
(ii) The calculation of number of blocks per m of wall assumes all joints are filled with mortar.

9
 Durox Coursing bricks
Coursing bricks are designed for
use with the range of Durox blocks
and should be used to avoid thermal Typical application
bridging and minimise wastage.

Application
Durox Coursing bricks should be
used for general coursing work,
in-filling small areas of wall such
as between timber floor or roof
members as well as closing cavities at
eaves, reveals and sills. Their use will
eliminate cutting and wastage.

Technical properties
Bricks
Width face size (mm)
215mm
215 x 70 for all products
MEAN compressive strength to BS en 771-4 (N/mm2)
70mm
3.6 7.3
Material dry density (kg/m3)
460 680
Thermal conductivity (W/mK) @ 3% moisture content
0.11 0.19
reaction to fire
Class A1 for all products

Size and unit weights

Brick width (mm) 100 115 125 140 150*
Brick: (3.6 N/mm2) - Unit weight (kg)
0.71 0.82 0.89 1.00 1.07
Brick: (7.3 N/mm ) - Unit weight (kg)
2

1.05 1.21 1.32 1.47 1.58

Notes Unit and laid weights, which are given for design purposes, are approximate and based
on 3% moisture content.
*Special range - not available from stock.

10
Durox Floor
Durox Floor blocks
Floor blocks are suitable for use in
suspended floors in conjunction with
precast concrete beams.
They are light and quick to install, and
provide effective sound and thermal
insulation for ground and internal
floors meeting the requirements of the
Building Regulations.
The use of Durox Floor blocks can
achieve economy in the overall design
of the floor. Firstly by a reduced dead
load, secondly the size of the block
allows much more flexibility in beam
spacing allowing fewer beams to be
used.
Applications
Durox Floor blocks are suitable for
use in beam and block suspended
ground and internal floors in single
occupancy dwellings under domestic
loading. Where high point loading
is anticipated, such as in garages, a
reinforced structural topping must be
used. Where the floor loading
dictates closer beam spacing a
620 x 215 x 100mm Durox Supabloc
block should be used, spanning its
215mm dimension only.
Coursing slips to in-fill between Thermal Insulation
beam-ends are available in a 40mm
bedding height. For 175mm deep The use of Durox Floor blocks will
beams Durox Coursing bricks are reduce the amount of ground floor
available. insulation needed compared to the
use of denser floor blocks. This will
The requirements of Building be further improved when used in
Regulation E2 Protection against combination with Durox Foundation
sound within a dwelling house can blocks. For examples refer to
be easily met using a beam and page 20 or view on
block internal floor finished with a www.tarmac.co.uk/topblock
minimum 50mm sand and cement
screed and plasterboard ceiling. Tests
commissioned by the Aircrete Products
Association confirm that the airborne
sound reduction (Rw) for this floor
construction is 51 Rw dB. This exceeds
the minimum required value of 40 Rw
dB.
Transverse load
The blocks have been tested at a
530mm and 620mm clear span
to sustain a point load of 3.5KN
transferred via a 100mm x 100mm
steel plate.
Technical properties
Floor
MEAN compressive strength to BS en 771-4 (N/mm2)
3.6
Material dry density (kg/m3)
460
Thermal conductivity (W/mK) @ 3% moisture content
0.11
transverse strength (kN) min
3.5
reaction to fire
Class A1
Size and unit weights (kg)
length x width (mm) 620 x 530 620 x 215*
thickness (mm) 100 100
Floor
15.6 6.3
Notes Unit and laid weights, which are given for design purposes, are approximate and based
on 3% moisture content.
* Available as Supabloc and laid at 215mm span.
11
 Durox Coursing slips
Durox Coursing slips
Coursing slips are specifically
manufactured for use in
combination with Floor blocks.
They can be used beneath Floor
blocks at the bearings where the
Floor block bears directly on to
the inner leaf or an internal wall.
They eliminate thermal bridging
by providing continuity of thermal
insulation. In addition the use of
Coursing slips minimises the need
for labour intensive cutting and
reduces wastage. Coursing slips are
supplied in packs of 600.

115mm Technical properties

215mm
Coursing slips
size (mm)
40mm 215 x 40 x 115
MEAN compressive strength to BS en 771-4 (N/mm2)
3.6
Material dry density (kg/m ) 3

460
UNIT WEIGHT (kg)
0.5
Thermal conductivity (W/mK) @ 3% moisture content
0.11

REACTION TO FIRE

Class A1 for all products

12
Durox application
Walls below DPC
Durox products can be used to
construct walls below ground.
They can be used in sulfate soil
conditions as shown in the table
below and as confirmed by British
Board of Agrment Certificate
No. 00/3776. In addition they
are resistant to the freeze / thaw
conditions likely to occur below
the DPC, as confirmed by tests to
MOAT 12.

Durox Foundation blocks should be

specified to construct 280-350mm
solid walls below ground. They are
intended to support cavity or solid
walls of equivalent thickness above
ground. All Durox Supabloc products
can be used to construct internal and
external walls below ground.

Internal walls Sulfate soil conditions

Any grade of Durox can be used
for the construction of internal
walls. For partitions in dwellings
these products can be used to
provide good levels of airborne
sound insulation as well as a suitable
background for finishes
and for fixings.
For commercial and industrial
applications Durox may be used
to provide sound insulation, fire
resistance and structural strength.
Certain internal walls are required to
provide a level of sound insulation as
required by the Building Regulations
E2. Walls between bedrooms, or
a room containing a water closet,
and other rooms, need to provide
the minimum sound insulation of
40 Rw dB. The constructions on
page 15 have been assessed and /
or laboratory tested to demonstrate
the performance level required by
Approved Document E.
Durox aircrete blocks
DS-1 DS-2 DS-3
Durox Foundation (3.6N/mm2) 3 3
Durox Supabloc 3 3
Durox Supabloc 4 3 3 3
Durox Supabloc 7 3 3 3
Durox Supabloc 10 3 3 3
Separating walls an alternative to pre-completion
testing for demonstrating
The Building Regulations require compliance with Part E for new build
separating walls to provide dwellings. Robust Details should be
reasonable resistance to sound used in accordance
transmission. with the scheme requirements
Guidance on suitable Durox including plot registration.
constructions capable of meeting The performance of separating
the specified performance is shown walls is highly dependent on the
on pages 14-16. This includes design and detailing of the
constructions that can be built associated flanking construction.
to satisfy new Robust Details E-WM-6, Further guidance is given in the
E-WM-10, E-WM-13 and E-WM-15. Topblock Design Guide.
The use of Robust Details provides

13
Durox application
New Dwellings - Robust Details

Construction elements Methods of compliance RD ref Recommended solution

Drylining
Separating walls Robust Details E-WM-6 E-WM-6 (conventional mortar)
2 x 100mm Durox Supabloc 4,
Pre-completion testing or 7 or 10 minimum 75mm cavity,
not required E-WM-10 plasterboard (nominal 8Kg/m2) on
dabs on cement/sand render with
or scratch finish
E-WM-13 E-WM-10 (thin joint mortar)
or 2 x 100mm Durox System 600
or 700 minimum 75mm cavity
E-WM-15 (using Ancon Staifix HRT4 wall ties),
plasterboard (nominal 8Kg/m2) on
dabs on cement/sand render with
scratch finish
75mm min cavity
E-WM-13 (thin joint mortar)
2 x 100mm Durox System 600 or
700 minimum 75mm cavity (built
without wall ties) plasterboard
(nominal 8Kg/m2) on dabs on cement/
sand render with scratch finish

RD E-WM-15 (conventional mortar)

-N 2 x 100mm Durox Supabloc 4,
o 7 or 10 minimum 75mm cavity
re S incorporating 35mm Saint Gobain
qu ite
ire te Isover RD35 acoustic batt, plasterboard
d sti (nominal 9.8kg/m2) on dabs
ng

Note *Durox System 600/700 is thin jointed blockwork using a 2-3mm bed joint. E-WM-13 separating walls should be built without wall ties.

New Dwellings - Pre-completion testing

Construction elements Methods of compliance Recommended solution

Separating walls Constructions requiring

pre-completion testing in
accordance with Approved
2 x 100mm Durox Supabloc 4 or 7 or10
Document E or other technical 2 x 100mm Durox System 600 or 700
guidance e.g. BBA certification
or field test data

Si 13mm plaster (10kg/m2 min) 75mm min cavity

t
re e te
qu st
ire ing
d

Note Durox System 600/700 is thin jointed blockwork using a 2-3mm bed joint.

14
New Build Dwellings and Extensions

Construction elements Methods of compliance Recommended solution

Internal Walls Approved Document E prescriptive Plaster or drylining

solutions or Topblock constructions
Wall blocks comprising
which have been shown by testing 100mm Durox Supabloc
to meet the regulations 100mm Durox Supabloc 4, 7 or 10
100mm Durox System 500, 600 or 700

Internal Floors Approved Document E prescriptive 50mm min sand/cement screed Infill blocks comprising
100mm Durox Floor
solutions or Topblock constructions
which have been shown by testing
to meet the regulations
N
o
S
re ite
qu te Any ceiling finish
ire sti
d n g

Note Durox System 500/600/700 is thin jointed blockwork using a 2-3mm bed joint.

New Build Rooms for Residential Purposes*

Any of the recommended solutions shown for the New Build Dwellings (above) can be specified for separating
walls for use in rooms for residential purpose. In addition the solutions shown below may be used:

Construction elements Methods of compliance Recommended solution

Separating Walls Constructions requiring

13mm plaster (10kg/m2 min)
pre-completion testing in
accordance with Approved
215mm Durox Supabloc 4 or 7 or 10
Document E or other technical 215mm Durox System 600
guidance e.g. BBA certification
13mm plaster (10kg/m2 min)
or field test data

Si
t
re e te 215mm
qu st
ire ing
d

Note  Rooms for residential purposes include hotels, hostels, boarding houses, halls of residence and residential houses but exclude hospitals or similar
*
establishments used for patient accommodation.

15
 Durox application
Durox in flats
Durox can be used to construct
flanking and separating walls based
on Robust Detail specifications.
Separating walls
The Robust Detail handbook
descibes aircrete separating wall
specifications including E-WM-6,
E-WM-10 and E-WM-15. This
confirms that aircrete can perform
as well as higher density aggregate
block constructions. As a result of
this Table 3 of the Robust Details
handbook allows Durox cavity
separating walls to be used in
combination with the separating
floor construction E-FC-4. This
allows Durox blocks to be used in
both the flanking and seperating
walls without the need for
pre-completion testing. Other Durox
specifications can be used
eg. E-WM-10 in conjunction with
separating floors but the floor only
will be subject to pre-completion
testing. The table below shows
the requirements. Work continues
in developing additional Durox
specifications through the Robust
Details programme and it is
advisable to refer to Topblock
Technical Services or our web site
www.tarmac.co.uk/topblock for the
most up-to-date specifications.

Durox separating & flanking walls in flats

Robust Detail Robust Detail
Flanking wall
Separating Wall separating floor
Durox Blocks
Durox inner leaf
RD ref No 2 x 100mm with RD ref No
100mm min
75mm cavity

E-WM-6 Supabloc,
Supabloc 4, 7 & 10 E-FC-4
(Conventional mortar) Supabloc 4, 7 & 10

E-WM-10
System 500, 600
(Thin layer mortar - System 600 & 700 E-FC-4*
& 700
Ancon Staifix wall ties)

E-WM-15 Supabloc,
Supabloc 4, 7 & 10 E-FC-4*
(Conventional mortar) Supabloc 4, 7 & 10

* In accordance with Table 3 of the Robust Details handbook these separating floors require
pre-completion testing.

Masonry outer leaf Flanking walls

External wall cavity (min 50mm)
Inner leaf (min 100mm) using
Durox Supabloc
Supabloc 4 or Supabloc 7
IsoEdge flanking strip
IsoRubber resilient layer
Flexible cavity stop unless it is fully filled
with build in mineral wool insulation
Tarmac Hollowcore or similar
Durox can be used for the inner
leaf of the external walls in
accordance with Robust Detail
E-FC-4 without the need to
undertake routine
pre-completion testing. For this
application Durox Supabloc,
Supabloc 4, 7 or 10 of minimum
100mm thickness can be used.
At least one storey of the
separating wall flanking the
separating floor should be built
with Supabloc 7 blockwork.

Nominal 8kg/m2 gypsum-based board or 13mm plaster

External (flanking) wall junction in conjunction with Robust Detail floor E-FC-4

N.B. Consult Robust Details Handbook for full specification

16
Durox application
External walls
Durox blocks may be used to
construct cavity and solid external
walls. For cavity construction the
minimum leaf thickness will normally
be 90mm. Durox blocks are suitable
for a range of external finishes as
shown in the table below.
Guidance for the use of Durox in external cavity walls
EXTERNAL FINISH CAVITY WALL CONSTRUCTION Comments
Any external cladding material
such as timber boarding or
hanging tiles on battens
Two coats of designation (iii)
sand/cement render
Two coats of designation (iii)
sand/cement render
Two coats of designation (iii)
sand/cement render
Facing brick
Notes Any grade of Durox includes Supabloc, Supabloc 4 or Supabloc 7. For advice on Durox System or solid walls contact technical services.
Thermal insulation
Some typical construction details
to comply with Building Regulation
Part L as well as the energy
requirements of the Code for
Sustainable Homes, are shown
on pages 18 - 20. As insulation
material sizes and their thermal
conductivity are subject to change
it is recommended that the U-value
of constructions be periodically
confirmed by reference to Technical
Services or the Tarmac Website.
Approved Document L1A,
In a single leaf wall the minimum
thickness of Durox, with or without
rendering, may be selected from BS
5628-3.
Clear cavity, Partial cavity fill, Both leaves may be any grade of Durox
Full fill block. Additional insulation may be
required
Clear cavity The inner leaf may be any grade of
Durox block. The outer leaf should be a
Durox Supabloc 4 or 7
Partial cavity fill The inner leaf may be any grade of
Durox block. The outer leaf should be a
Durox Supabloc 4 or 7
Full fill The inner leaf may be any grade of
Durox block. The outer leaf should be a
Topblock Hemelite or Topcrete block
Clear cavity, Partial cavity fill, The inner leaf may be any grade
Full fill of Durox
(new dwellings) of the Building
Regulations, requires compliance to
be demonstrated by showing that
the Dwelling Emission Rate (DER) is
no greater than the Target Emission
Rate (TER) of a notional building
of the same size as the proposed
house. The TER is calculated using
standard defaults for the fabric
insulation and the heating and hot
water systems that are embedded
within the SAP software, resulting
in a 20% reduction in CO2
emissions compared to the previous
requirements.
17
 Durox application
Thermal insulation The actual level of fabric insulation gas, which could form the starting
(continued) required will be dependant upon point for the DER calculation.
a number of factors including the
Lower U-values may be required
Roof with ceiling fuel type used and the efficiency of
U-value = 0.14 W/m2K when meeting more stringent energy
Roof window or rooflights the heating system. The diagram
U-value = 0.30 W/m2K requirements. This may include
below shows typical U-values for the
compliance with various levels of the
exposed elements of the building,
Code for Sustainable Homes.
assuming that the fuel type is mains
Exposed walls
U-value = 0.30 W/m2K Approved Document L1B covers
the standard of insulation required
Gas boiler with a
minimum Sedbuk when building work is carried out
of 86% on an existing dwelling. When
constructing an extension to a
Windows and doors
U-value = 1.8 W/m2K
dwelling minimum elemental
Ground floor U-values apply as shown in the
U-value = 0.20 W/m2K
table below.
Elemental U-values for extensions to existing dwellings
Element Dwellings U-value (W/m2K)
Walls 0.30
Floor 0.22
Roof insulation at ceiling level 0.16
Roofs insulation at rafter level 0.20
Roofs (flat) 0.25
Windows roof windows & rooflights 1.80
Doors with more than 50% of internal face glazed 2.20
Other doors 3.00
The following U-value examples are based on the use of Durox Supabloc. For U-values of Durox thin joint blockwork please refer to the
respective brochure. Typical proprietary insulation materials are shown but alternative insulation products may be used providing they can
achieve equivalent thermal resistance.

U-values using clear cavity with thermal laminates and 100mm Durox
Internal finish U-value (W/m2K)
Thermal laminate Supabloc Supabloc 4 Supabloc 7
60mm ThermaLine Super (R-value = 2.32 m K/W) 2
0.27 0.29 0.30
65mm ThermaLine Super (R-value = 2.55 m K/W) 2
0.26 0.27 0.28
Note Thermal laminates are assumed to be fixed using adhesive tabs.

U-values using partial fill insulation and 100mm Durox

Insulation Internal finish U-value (W/m2K)

Supabloc Supabloc 4 Supabloc 7
40mm Kingspan TW50 13mm Lightweight plaster 0.29 0.30 0.31
or similar
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.28 0.29 0.30
50mm Kingspan TW50 13mm Lightweight plaster 0.25 0.27 0.27
or similar 12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.25 0.26 0.27
60mm Kingspan TW50 13mm Lightweight plaster 0.24 0.26 0.26
or similar 12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.24 0.25 0.26
70mm Kingspan TW50 13mm Lightweight plaster 0.22 0.23 0.24
or similar 12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.22 0.23 0.23
Note Similar materials include Celotex, Xtratherm etc.

18
Durox application
U-values using full fill insulation and 100mm Durox
Insulation
75mm Crown Dritherm 32
or Isover Hi-Cav 32
85mm Crown Dritherm 32
or Isover Hi-Cav 32
100mm Crown Dritherm 32
or Isover Hi-Cav 32
85mm Crown Dritherm 34
100mm Crown Dritherm 34
80mm Springvale Platinum
Ecobead
100mm Springvale Platinum
Ecobead
125mm Crown Dritherm 32
or Isover Hi-Cav 32
125mm Springvale Platinum
Ecobead
Solid Walls using 215mm Durox
EXTERNAL FINISH
20mm Render
Tile Hanging + 40mm PIR
(=0.023 W/mK) insulation
laid between vertical battens
at 400mm centres
Tile Hanging + 50mm PIR
(=0.023 W/mK) insulation
laid between vertical battens
at 400mm centres
10mm Render + 100mm
External Insulation (=0.033)
Note PIR is polyisocyanurate insulation.
Internal finish U-value (W/m2K)
Supabloc Supabloc 4 Supabloc 7
13mm Lightweight plaster 0.29 0.31 0.31
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.28 0.30 0.30
13mm Lightweight plaster 0.27 0.29 0.29
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.27 0.28 0.29
13mm Lightweight plaster 0.24 0.26 0.26
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.24 0.25 0.26
13mm Lightweight plaster 0.28 0.29 0.30
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.27 0.28 0.29
13mm Lightweight plaster 0.25 0.27 0.27
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.25 0.26 0.27
13mm Lightweight plaster 0.28 0.30 0.31
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.27 0.29 0.30
13mm Lightweight plaster 0.24 0.25 0.26
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.24 0.25 0.25
13mm Lightweight plaster 0.22 0.23 0.23
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.21 0.22 0.23
13mm Lightweight plaster 0.22 0.23 0.23
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.21 0.22 0.22
Internal finish U-value (W/m2K)
Supabloc Supabloc 4 Supabloc 7
50mm ThermaLine Super 0.27 0.31 0.32
60mm ThermaLine Super 0.24 0.26 0.28
65mm ThermaLine Super 0.23 0.25 0.26
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.30 0.35 0.37
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.27 0.31 0.33
12.5mm Plasterboard on dabs 0.21 0.23 0.24
19
 Durox application

Beam & Durox Floor block ground floor with Durox Foundation blocks to achieve
U-value 0.20 (W/m2K) or better
Floor Block Insulation type Insulation thickness (mm)
P/A ratio 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0
Durox Jabfloor 70 10 70 90 105 110 115 120 120 125 125
Durox Polyfoam Floorboard 220 10 50 80 90 100 105 105 110 110 115
Durox Celotex GA 3000 10 40 55 65 65 70 75 75 75 75
Notes (i) Floor beams are assumed at 620mm centres.
(ii) Some widths of insulation are achieved by combining one or more layers to obtain the overall thickness.
(iii) Includes 2 courses of Foundation blocks below ground level.
(iv) Floors finished with (minimum) 50mm screed or chipboard.

Beam & Durox Floor block ground floor to achieve U-value 0.20 (W/m2K) or better
Floor Block Insulation type Insulation thickness (mm)
P/A ratio 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0
Durox Jabfloor 70 20 80 100 110 115 120 125 130 130 130
Durox Polyfoam Floorboard 220 15 65 90 100 105 110 110 115 115 120
Durox Celotex GA 3000 15 50 60 65 70 75 75 80 80 80
Notes (i) Floor beams are assumed at 620mm centres.
(ii) Some thicknesses of insulation are achieved by combining one or more layers to obtain the overall thickness.
(iii) Floors finished with (minimum) 50mm screed or chipboard.

Beam & Durox Floor block ground floor to achieve U-value 0.15 (W/m2K) or better
Floor Block Insulation type Insulation thickness (mm)
P/A ratio 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0
Durox Jabfloor 70 90 140 150 - - - - - - -
Durox Polyfoam Floorboard 220 75 125 140 150 - - - - - -
Durox Celotex GA 3000 55 85 95 105 110 110 115 115 115 115
Notes (i) Floor beams are assumed at 620mm centres.
(ii) Some thicknesses of insulation are achieved by combining one or more layers to obtain the overall thickness.
(iii) Floors finished with (minimum) 50mm screed or chipboard.

20
Durox application
Code for Sustainable
Homes
The Code for Sustainable Homes
identifies 9 key categories of
sustainable performance. Durox
products can contribute towards the
required performance as shown.
2.Building Fabric (Ene 2) is optional
and requires that the Heat Loss
Parameter (HLP) of each dwelling
meets set criteria. The HLP is a
measure of the overall thermal
performance of the home taking
into account fabric and ventilation
losses. Durox constructions can
be used to help achieve a HLP less
than or equal to 1.1 to obtain the
maximum credits available.
Ene 3 to 9 deal with other
optional energy use aspects such
as daylighting, drying spaces and
renewable energy etc.
Environmental Impact of
Materials Mat 1
Durox construction can be used to
external walls, upper floors (beam
and block) and internal walls to
meet the minimum standards.
Enhanced Performance
Based on the Green Guide 2008,
Durox aircrete constructions can
be used to maximise the points
available and hence contribute
towards the required Code level.
Green Guide Rating Score
A+ 3
A 2
B 1
C 0.5
D 0.25

This section of the Code recognises

Energy and CO2
Category 1 of the Code is
essentially divided into mandatory
requirements Ene 1 and optional
requirements Ene 2 to Ene 9.
1.The Dwelling emission rate (Ene 1)
is mandatory and awards credits for
the CO2 emissions of the dwelling
being below the standard set by
the Building Regulations Approved
Document L1A (2006 edition).
Durox products will contribute
towards the U-value of the external
elements such as external walls,
ground floors and foundation walls
thereby reducing the dwellings
CO2 emissions. Whilst there is a
minimum standard to be met at
each Code level additional, optional
credits can be gained by reducing
the dwellings CO2 emissions below
the level set for each Code level.
the importance of accounting Green Guide Ratings
for the environmental impact of Environmental ratings for a number
building materials and encourages of Durox aircrete constructions are
designers to consider the type of based on BREs Green Guide 2008
construction they specify. Mat ratings. The ratings presented
1 is mandatory and has a single
minimum standard at all Code
are only a selection of the aircrete
constructions available.
levels. By careful selection of the
main elements additional credits The ratings are correct at the time
can be obtained over and above the of going to press, but these may be
minimum standard. subject to change as constructions
are amended or new ones
The credits awarded are based on introduced. Please check ratings
BRE Green Guide 2008 Ratings of with our Technical Services team or
construction elements. view current ratings on the BRE web
site www.thegreenguide.org.uk.
Minimum Standard
The minimum standard at all
Code Levels is for at least three of
the following 5 key elements of
construction to achieve a Green
Guide rating of at least D
- Roof
- External walls
- Upper floors
- Internal walls
- Windows and doors

21
 External walls
The ratings for external walls are applicable to all building types using any type of Durox block.

Element Summary
number rating
Brickwork outer leaf, insulation, aircrete blockwork inner leaf, 806170028 A+
cement mortar, plaster, paint

Brickwork outer leaf, insulation, aircrete blockwork inner leaf, 806170615 A+

cement mortar, plasterboard on battens, paint

Brickwork outer leaf, insulation, aircrete blockwork inner leaf, 806170061 A+

cement: lime mortar, plaster, paint

Brickwork outer leaf, insulation, aircrete blockwork inner leaf, 806170065 A+

cement: lime mortar, plasterboard on battens, paint

Internal walls
The ratings for internal walls are applicable to domestic, commercial and health buildings using any type of
Durox block.

Element Summary
number rating
Aircrete blockwork with cement: lime mortar, 809180038 A+
painted finish only

Aircrete blockwork with cement: lime mortar, 809180034 A

plaster, paint

Aircrete blockwork with cement: lime mortar, 809180015 B

plasterboard, paint

Aircrete blockwork with plaster, paint 809180021 A

22
Internal walls contd
Element Summary
number rating
Aircrete blockwork with thin joint mortar, plaster, paint 809180022 A

Aircrete blockwork with thin joint mortar, 809180050 B

plasterboard, paint

Aircrete blockwork, painted finish only 809180037 A+

Aircrete blockwork, plasterboard, paint 809180003 B

Ground floors
The ratings for external walls are applicable to domestic building types using Durox Floor block.

Element Summary
number rating
Chipboard (P5) decking on timber battens with insulation, 820140019 A+
on grouted beam and aircrete block flooring

Plywood (temperate, EN 636-2) decking on timber battens 820140026 A

with insulation, on grouted beam and aircrete
block flooring

Screed on insulation laid on grouted beam and 820140014 B

aircrete block flooring

23
 Responsible Sourcing of Materials (Basic Building Elements) Mat 2

This aspect is intended to Criteria

encourage the specification of
responsibly sourced materials for
the basic building elements such as
external walls and floors.
Responsible sourcing was an issue
originally attributed to imported
timber and the consequences
including social conditions that arise
from illegal logging. Although the
focus has long been on timber,
the Code now requires all basic
materials to be considered.
Credits are awarded based on the
use of materials in key building
elements as shown.
Material Credits for Basic
Building Elements
Compliance is based on conformity
with four Tier Levels, a grading
that reflects the rigour of the
certification scheme used to
demonstrate responsible sourcing.
Durox products are manufactured
under an ISO 14001 compliant
Environmental Management System
(EMS). This combined with similar
EMS compliance of our supply chain
processes as specified in Table:
Cat 3.2 of the Technical Guide to
the Code for Sustainable Homes,
allows Durox products to meet
Tier Levels 3 and 4. However, the
British Precast Concrete Federation,
is developing a certification scheme
that will allow the potential for
a higher rating to be achieved for
concrete products. So specifiers
Credits
Where 80% of the assessed materials in the following 1-6
Building Elements are responsibly sourced:
a) Frame
b) Ground floor
c) Upper floors (including separating floors)
d) Roof
e) External walls
f) Internal walls (including separating walls)
g) Foundation/substructure (excluding sub-based materials)
h) Staircase
Additionally, 100% of any timber in these elements must be legally sourced
Default Cases
None
Notes These criteria are assessed at the building envelope level.
should check with Technical Services wall and floor constructions since
for an update on our position on the 2003 amendments to Part E1
responsible sourcing. of the Building Regulations. This
has allowed Tarmac to acquire
Sound Insulation Hea 2 significant knowledge into the
constructions that can meet and
surpass the minimum standards
Category 7 of the Code covers required by Building Regulations.
health and wellbeing issues
including sound insulation. Credits are awarded depending
on the level of sound insulation
This aspect is intended to promote achieved for separating walls and
improved sound insulation of separating floors (where applicable)
separating elements to reduce the above the performance specified in
incidence of noise complaints from the Building Regulations, Approved
neighbours. Document E (2003 Edition). The
required performance is shown.
Significant progress has been made
in developing reliable separating

Improvement over Building Regulations Credits

Airborne sound Impact sound
3 dB higher 3 dB lower 1
5 dB higher 5 dB lower 3
8 dB higher 8 dB lower 4

Criteria for higher standards of sound insulation

The specified level of performance can be demonstrated by:

a) pre-completion testing in accordance with Approved Document E, or
b) using constructions that have been confirmed by Robust Details Limited as being capable of meeting the level
of performance required.

Through the Robust Details programme a number of separating walls can be built with our products to achieve
enhanced levels of performance as shown in the following tables.

24
Durox constructions achieving enhanced sound insulation
Separating walls Cavity wall, 75mm (min) cavity unless noted
Number of credits RD Wall Type Suitable Tarmac products
1 E-WM-6 2 leaves minimum 100mm width Durox Supabloc
4 or 7, finished with render and gypsum-based
board
3 E-WM-13 2 leaves minimum 100mm width Durox thin joint,
untied blockwork, finished with render and
gypsum-based board

Other Topblock constructions achieving enhanced sound insulation

Separating walls, Cavity wall, 75mm (min) cavity unless noted

Number of credits RD Wall Type Suitable Tarmac products
1 E-WM-2 2 leaves minimum width 100mm Hemelite
Standard (finished with plaster)
1 E-WM-3 2 leaves minimum width 100mm Topcrete
Standard (finished with render and
gypsum-based board)
1 E-WM-4 2 leaves minimum width 100mm Hemelite
Standard (finished with render and
gypsum-based board)

1 E-WM-8 2 leaves minimum width Hemelite Standard

35mm Saint Gobain Isover RD35 acoustic batt,
(finished with gypsum-based board)
3 E-WM-11 2 leaves minimum width 100mm Hemelite Standard
(finished with render and gypsum based board,
with minimum 100mm cavity)
3 E-WM-14 2 leaves minimum width 100mm Hemelite Standard
35mm Saint Gobain Isover RD35 acoustic batt,
(finished with gypsum-based board, with minimum
100mm cavity)

It will be necessary to check with Robust Details Ltd or Tarmac Topblock that the above constructions remain valid
and whether new constructions are added.

In addition to the above constructions, a number of field test reports on separating walls and floors are available
that demonstrate enhanced performance can be achieved. This data can be used to provide confidence in the
construction specified when using the pre-completion route to compliance. Contact Technical Services for details.

25
 Meeting the Code with Durox
The use of masonry built
construction to satisfy the Code
for Sustainable Homes is now
commonplace. There is no single
approach to design that will suit
all house types. Tarmac have
collaborated with builders on a
number of schemes, providing
design input and product advice, in
determining a solution to meet the
required Code level. Meeting the
energy efficiency targets (Code 3 is
25% above 2006 Part L Standards)
is probably the most challenging
aspect to comply with. There will
be site and cost considerations to
consider when arriving at the most
economic specification. Featured is
a typical specification for attached
housing designed to meet Code
Level 3. This should be considered
as a starting point for the Code
assessment and will need to be
refined to suit the specifics of
individual projects.

Case study
Terraced 2-storey 3-bed housing (floor area 72m2) designed to meet Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.

Conventional external cavity walls with Durox Supabloc to the inner leaf, internal loadbearing walls and
separating walls.

Tarmac beam and Durox Floor infill block ground floors.

Durox Foundation blocks below ground.

Specification Construction
Wall U-value = 0.24W/m2K Facing brick, 100mm Isowool Hi- Cav or similiar full fill cavity insulation
{or 50mm Celotex/Kingspan partial cavity fill},100mm Durox Supabloc
inner leaf, plasterboard on dabs internal finish
Floor U-value = 0.16W/m2K 150mm deep Tarmac beam and block floor using Durox infill blocks,
finished with100mm Celotex insulation, screed or chipboard
floor finish.
Roof U-value = 0.11W/m2K Pitched tiled roof with 100mm insulation between joists, and
250mm insulation above
Openings U-value = 1.80W/m K 2
UPVC Double glazed units
North /south orientation
Thermal bridging y-value: 0.04W/m2K Based on the Aircrete Products Associations (APA) Construction
Details approved by the BRE. The enhanced y-value can be used
in SAP 2005 calculations in lieu of the default value of 0.08 provided
all junction details are in accordance APA Constructional Details
Airtightness 6.5m3/(h.m2)
Heating / hot water Boiler SEDBUK value: 91% with time and temperature zone control.
50mm cylinder insulation.
Solar roof panels 2.5m2.
No secondary heating

Durox can contribute further towards Code compliance as follows:

Mat 1 Environmental Impact of Materials Many wall and floor constructions using Durox blocks achieve Green
Guide ratings of A+ or A.
Mat 2 Responsible Sourcing of Materials Credits for Durox when used in walls and floors as part of the key
building elements.
Hea 2 Sound Insulation Durox specifications can be used to achieve higher standards of sound insulation than
those given in Approved Document E of the Building Regulations.

26
 Durox design
Safe handling
Aircrete is an inherently lightweight
material, which ensures that the
majority of Durox aircrete blocks fall
within the guidance (see Health and
Safety Executive Construction Sheet
37) for single-person repetitive
handling. Foundation blocks of
350mm x 310mm x 215mm size,
as well as Foundation blocks with
a 140mm bedding height are
available which satisfy the nominal
20kg guidance for single-person
handling.

For guidance on the approximate

weights of Durox blocks refer to
the relevant product pages.

Movement control
Movement joints should be
provided in accordance with
BS 5628-3 generally at intervals of
6m. Movement joints are not usually
necessary for internal walls in
dwellings. In areas of concentrated
stress, such as above and below
openings, consideration should be
given to the introduction of bed
joint reinforcement.
Flat metal tie Joint
with one end filler
de-bonded
in alternate
courses
Suggested mortar mixes
Mortar
The mortar type should be selected
taking into account durability,
structural strength and provision
for movement. Detailed guidance
on the selection of mortars
is given in BS 5628-3 and
BS 8000-3.
For work above ground level (DPC),
mortar designation (iii) will normally
be satisfactory. Below ground level
mortar designation (iii) or (ii) may
be used in accordance with
BS 5628-3.
Stronger mixes, which may be
required for structural reasons,
are not recommended for use
with our aircrete products. All mix
proportions are given by volume.
For further information
on Mortar, call Tarmac on
08701 116116

Work above DPC - mortar designation (iii) - COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH CLASS M4

a) 1 Portland cement,

Sealant
1 Hydrated lime,
where
required
6 Sand
b) 1 Portland cement,
Typical movement joint
6 Sand + plasticiser
c) 1 Masonry cement
5 Sand
Work below DPC - mortar designation (ii) - COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH CLASS M6

a) 1 Portland cement
4 Sand + plasticiser
Notes (i) The sand should conform to BS EN 13139
(ii) Factory produced mortars or carefully gauged site mixed mortars should be used.

27
 Durox design
Wall ties
Use wire butterfly or double triangle
ties complying with BS DD140-2, at
the density and positioning required
by the Building Regulations and
BS 5628-1 & 3. The use of vertical
twist ties should generally be avoided
when using aircrete blocks.

For separating walls, butterfly

ties or ties conforming with
Type A as specified in Approved
Document E or Robust Detail
Specifications should be used.

Specification
Blockwork to: (state location)
Blocks to BS EN 771-4: Durox aircrete blocks to Category Compressive Strengths (N/mm2)
1 manufacturing control
Manufacturer: Tarmac Topblock Limited BS EN 771-4
Grade and compressive strength: *Supabloc/Coursing brick 3.6
*Supabloc 4 4.2
*Supabloc 7 7.3
*Supabloc 10 8.7

*System 500 3.6
*System 600 4.2
*System 700 7.3
*Supabloc 7/Coursing brick 7.3
*Foundation 3.6
*Foundation 7.3
*Floor/Coursing slip 3.6
Shape and dimensions:**

Wall block: 620mm long x mm width x 215mm high

(Supabloc, Supabloc 4,
Supabloc 7, Supabloc 10)

Wall block: 620mm long x mm width x 214mm/299mm high

(System 500, 600 and 700)

Foundation block: 620mm long x mm width x 215mm/140mm high

or 350mm x 310mm x 215mm high
Floor block: 620mm long x 100mm thick x 530mm wide
Coursing slip: 215mm long x 115mm width x 40mm high
Coursing brick: 215mm long x 100mm, 115mm, 125mm, 140mm, 150mm width
x 70mm high

Note  Delete as applicable

*
** Check the available thickness with the individual product pages

28
29
National Sales Helpline
Call us on: 0845 606 2468

Technical Helpline
Call us on: 0870 2421489
Email: technical.services@tarmac.co.uk

Marketing and Literature Requests:

Call us on: 08456 044 114

Other building products available from Tarmac include:

Lightweight aggregate blocks
Dense aggregate blocks
Thin Joint System blocks
Aircrete blocks
Screeds
Mortar
Floors
Stairs
Precast solutions
Bespoke Precast solutions service
Specialist building products
Bagged aggregates

Tarmac Limited
Millfields Road,
Ettingshall,
Wolverhampton
WV4 6JP

t: 08701 116 116

e: info@tarmac.co.uk

www.tarmac.co.uk

Tarmac and the T mark are registered trademarks of the Tarmac Group.

While the information contained in this publication has been prepared in good faith no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made and no responsibility or liability
is accepted in relation to the accuracy or completeness of this publication and any opinions expressed in this publication, and any such liability is excluded except to the extent
that such liability may not be so excluded or limited by law.

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