Porotherm doesn’t require mortar in vertical joints, with the blocks interlocking mechanically. The 1 mm beds and minimal use of bed joint mix reduces preparation time and wastage.

The maximum storey height capability, without the need to back up, allows the project plan’s critical path to be more flexible for the external envelope.

Porotherm can be utilised much earlier in the construction programme as it is less affected by the weather. It is so efficient to use that it rivals timber frame in terms of the speed of construction.

Using multi cellular clay blocks can allow parallel working for internal and external trades early in the project, reducing overall build times.

Multi cellular clay blocks have around 95% less water built in, reducing the time to get a project to a water-tight shell and allowing quicker availability for finishing trades.

Water comparison based upon a typical House of 212 m²

Concrete Block: 1,060 litres

POROTHERM: 72 litres

The thermal mass of multi cellular clay blocks helps to regulate variations in internal temperature. Air-tightness can be maximised with the use of a parge coat or wet plaster.

Robust Detail E-WM-25

• 2 x 100 mm Porotherm
• 100 mm full filled cavity with mineral wool or batts (<20kg/m³)
• Ancon Type A wall ties
• Eco Parge nominal 3 – 4 mm
• Gypsum based board on dabs

All Code for Sustainable Homes levels can be achieved using multi cellular clay blocks. They provide outstanding fire resistance with a 100 mm wall giving a Class A1 rating.

The breathability of the clay block walling systems assist in regulating humidity within a building, helping to promote a healthy living climate.

Due to the dryness, there is also no moisture shrinkage. The kiln fired clay does not shrink or disrupt finishes, which can result in fewer movement joints and less risk of cracking.

The core range compressive strengths typically ≥ 10 N/ mm². Due to this there is less need to keep multiple block types on site and a reduced risk of the incorrect block being used in the wrong location. It also reduces storage requirements on sites where space is limited.

Mortar can be mixed local to workplace with minimal cement being required.

A specially developed roller applicator reduces skin contact with bed joint mix, reducing the risk of dermatological damage.

Clay is also a natural inert material and so it is non-hazardous to both people and the wider ecology.

“Building use in the UK contributes approx. 50% of the UK’s CO2 emissions. Construction contributes approx. another 7%”

How Multi Cellular Clay Blocks can assist:

• Less embodied energy due to reduced firing temperature.
• Psi values within the building envelope demonstrated an improvement over traditional construction methods
• Increased building fabric efficiency can reduce the need for additional ‘bolt on’ enhancements
• High thermal mass
• Lucideon tested air tightness maximised through parge coat or wet plaster

How Multi Cellular Clay Blocks can assist:

• Design provides maximum build volume for minimum material usage
• Average 2% wastage provision for blocks
• Controlled application of bed joint mortar gives absolute minimal wastage
• Mortar mixed in small quantities local to laying, reducing wastage
• Inert blocks recyclable following life cycle conclusion – i.e. hardcore

“Sustainable construction includes how developments impact on, and provide for, the surrounding infrastructure and natural environment, in addition to the fabric of buildings”

How Multi Cellular Clay Blocks can assist:

• 30% materials from alternative, recycled or secondary sources (MARSS)
• Life expectancy in excess of 150 years
• Blocks recyclable at life cycle conclusion – e.g. hardcore
• A+ BRE Green Guide