AAC Block Installation Method
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) block stands for a certified green building material that is useful for commercial, industrial and residential construction. It is porous, non-toxic, reusable, renewable and recyclable.
Set out wall lines
Set out wall lines on building slab with control lines.
Also read : TYPES OF BONDS IN BRICK MASONRY
Prepare the leveling bed
At the uppermost corner of the slab, set a full width 1/2" deep sand-cement mortar joint with a masonry trowel (the mortar should be either ready mix or 3:1 sand).
It is recommended not to apply thin-bed mortar or large grain mortar for the leveling bed joint. To get rid of moisture or wicking, add water resistant mixture to sand-cement mortar. Make sure that the top level of all blocks remain at similar height.
Fix the first corner block
Place the first corner block in the sand-cement mortar and modify the joint as necessary. To obtain the desired height, reduce or increase the block by tapping down with a rubber mallet or adding extra mortar underneath.
Fix the second corner block
Fix the second corner block with thin bed mortar to the head joint through 1/4 inch notched trowel.
Redo for supplementary corners
Do the sequential steps again for each corner with a builder's level to retain a consistent elevation. Examine each lead corner in all three planes thrice.
Non corner area / normal wall
Once the corners are fixed, rest wall is erected with exact measure to avoid any space among the blocks. An overlaying of the block is performed with the center of other blocks. After each 5-6 level of blocks a lentil should constructed with just two 6-8 mm iron rod and a perfect measurement should be kept to make the wall fully horizontal.
Use lintel where required
Set up lintels with least 8" bearing (overlap) if necessary. End bearing for lintels should usually remain not lower than 8". When the stresses under lintel bearing surpasses allowable values against severe loads, concrete spreaders or pad stones should be integrated. To get rid of cold bearing at lintel positions, apply AAC together with proper types of lintels. These facilitate the insulating properties of AAC blocks to be continual over the wall face as well as setting the consequent door and window fasteners.
Windows/Doors
Lintel should be set on top of doors and windows. Concrete in fill should be provided where door is affixed to the wall.
Secondary Wall
Best method for construction is to abide by the installation method of developing T shaped joints. In case, a secondary wall can't be constructed; an L-angle should be utilized after each 2 levels to add sufficient strength and support to construct a secondary wall together with the main wall.