Can You Fill Cinder Blocks With Soil or Concrete? Is It Safe?
In material if you are creating a raised bed or a wall, cinder block walls are a cost-effective and sturdy way to achieve your goal. Old cinder blocks used to be literal blocks with no holes, however, today’s blocks come with holes in them.
There are numerous reasons why manufacturers do this; ranging from making them lighter and easier to use to easy alignment. Looking at those holes, it is no wonder why many people ask if they can fill them with soil or concrete. There are two schools of thought with regard to this, and both are right in their own way.
If you live somewhere that receives a great deal of frost, it is not recommended. As the moisture within will freeze, it will expand and will eventually crack or split the cinder block. On the other hand, concrete can be added to increase the strength of the wall. So, you can add soil or concrete, just consider the climate you live in.
Cinder Blocks are concrete masonry units that are used in almost every construction job. They are available in 4 different sizes and are known for their thickness. Standard sizes in the US range from:
- 4-inch blocks
- 6-inch blocks
- 8-inch blocks
- 12-inch blocks
These are usually 16 inches long and 8 inches in width.
It is common to fill the holes with rebar and add concrete to strengthen them. However, when doing this, take note of the climate. For example, if you are working during the winter, filling in the holes will only end up creating more problems for you.
If, however, you are working during the summer with little or no humidity, then, by all means, feel free to fill them in with soil or concrete.
For information pertaining to the block walls services and products All Angles Masonry has to offer, please do not hesitate to dial this number (505) 209-3665 now, we are based in the Albuquerque, NM area.