CPD\
CPD /
RIBA Core Curriculum
- Design, construction and technology
Knowledge level
- General Awareness
A modern construction method with the reassuringly traditional values of clay
This course provide an overview of the Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) options for walling systems. It reviews the environmental impacts of different walling systems and covers Construction Design and Management (CDM) benefits, as well as safer site traffic management. The CPD also highlights the relevant current legislation that should be considered.
In this section
- What is Porotherm?
- The benefits of using a thin joint system
- Sustainable construction
Porotherm is a multi-cellular clay walling system that uses precision engineered blocks. The horizontal faces are ground to +/- 0.3 mm tolerances.
It uses a modern jointing method and bespoke components designed to make it quick and cost effective to use.
Benefits
Fast
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.
Fast
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.
Dry
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
Efficient
Efficient
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
Efficient
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.
Strong
Strong
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.
Safe
Safe
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.
Energy efficient construction
Energy efficient construction
“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:
Waste management
Waste management
How Multi Cellular Clay Blocks can assist:
Sustainable construction
Sustainable construction
“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:
You’ve reached the end of the CPD. To make sure you’ve taken on board the key learnings of this course, please fill out the quick multiple choice Q&A below. This will certify that you have completed the CPD and provide you with an email certificate, which, if the course is accredited, you can share with RIBA.