Types of reinforcing masonry mesh for aerated concrete blocks, rules of application

Reinforcing masonry mesh is essential for improving structural integrity and durability in projects involving aerated concrete blocks in construction and renovation. Because aerated concrete is lightweight and insulating, these meshes are specifically made to give walls constructed of it strength and stability.

For aerated concrete blocks, there are various kinds of reinforcing masonry mesh available; each has a specific function depending on the needs of the application. Typically, galvanized steel or fiberglass are used to make these meshes because of their resistance to corrosion and weather resistance.

Flat sheet mesh is one frequently used type of mesh that is easy to install and offers consistent reinforcement along the wall surface. It lessens cracking and aids in the equitable distribution of stresses, particularly in structurally vulnerable areas.

Ladder mesh is a different kind that is made up of longitudinal wires that are connected by cross wires at regular intervals. This arrangement strengthens the mesh’s resistance to tensile stresses, which makes it perfect for reinforcing edges and corners where extra strength is frequently required.

To guarantee correct installation and efficacy, there are specific guidelines that must be followed when applying reinforcing masonry mesh to aerated concrete blocks. To ensure that the mesh is evenly embedded throughout the thickness of the wall, it should first be positioned in the center of the mortar bed in between courses of blocks.

Additionally, continuous reinforcement along the length of the wall is maintained by the overlap of the mesh sheets where they meet. The typical overlap varies between 4 and 6 inches, contingent upon the specific mesh type and engineering requirements.

Finally, it’s critical to fasten the mesh at the edges and corners of openings like windows and doors. This step guarantees the overall structural stability of the aerated concrete block wall by reinforcing these susceptible areas against future cracking.

Construction and renovation professionals can effectively increase the strength and durability of walls built with aerated concrete blocks by knowing the various types of reinforcing masonry mesh that are available and following these application guidelines. These procedures enhance the building project’s overall performance and longevity in addition to its structural integrity.

In this post, we examine several kinds of masonry mesh reinforcement that are made especially for aerated concrete blocks and provide important tips for using them. Despite its lightweight and insulating qualities, aerated concrete needs careful reinforcement to improve its durability and structural integrity. We will go over the various mesh options—such as fiberglass and galvanized steel—and their benefits for supporting aerated concrete block walls, floors, and other structural components. We’ll also go over some useful installation advice for these meshes, which will help to maximize the stability and longevity of aerated concrete structures while ensuring efficient reinforcement.

General requirements

Masonry mesh, also known as reinforcing, is created as a structured building material using metal rods or high-strength polymer binders with the goal of finishing layers and fortifying walls, in accordance with the specifications of GOST R 57265.

The following are the primary uses for reinforced meshes:

• Laying in horizontal rows.
• Building relationships in a 2-layer masonry of aerated concrete with finishing bricks.
• Strengthening the plaster finish.

The reinforcement mesh used for these walls is categorized based on the material type:

1. metal;
2. composite reinforcement.

The arrangement, location, and diameter of the reinforcing wire of steel matrices are all significant factors. The most common type of reinforced mesh for aerated concrete walls has cells measuring 50×75 mm and reinforcement D ranging from 3 to 5 mm. It is available in lengths and widths of up to 9 m and 4 m, respectively.

They might be arranged differently:

• rectangular;
• wicker;
• rhombic;
• misfired.

Materials for composite mesh are categorized by kind of reinforced filler:

• ASK glass composite.
• AAK aramid composite.
• ABK basalt.
• ACC combined.
• AUK carbon composite.

Composite mesh cells have a diameter of 4 to 200 mm. Larger ones are used to reinforce walls, and smaller ones are used to reinforce finishing layers.

These matrices have square or rectangular-shaped cells. Polymer mesh with a wire D over 5 mm is made in rolls as well as sheets.

Why is it used when laying aerated concrete blocks??

To improve the structure’s overall mechanical strength, reinforce the rows of aerated concrete in the masonry.

This stops walls from cracking during shrinkage processes. Installing a mesh that is reinforced with metal or basalt effectively compensates for tensile stresses.

In order to accomplish this, the developer must closely adhere to all project specifications as well as regulatory materials pertaining to the size, frequency of installation, and production quality of reinforcing matrices.

It is sufficient to place reinforced mesh through three to four rows of aerated concrete for most projects. More specifically, the strength class of the aerated concrete blocks dictates the masonry mesh installation step. The reinforced mesh is positioned more frequently for class B2.0 and below, and less frequently for class B2.5 and above.

Starting with the block row "0," reinforcement is applied by placing the matrix on the base. It is unacceptable to forgo using reinforced aerated concrete when building homes because doing so severely impairs the walls’ ability to support weight and, as a result, shortens the house’s service life.

The following factors are connected to this:

1. The highest water absorption capacity of aerated concrete, which leads to a decrease in the frost resistance of building walls.
2. Concentrated moisture in the thickness of the blocks at subzero temperatures expands and tears the blocks from the inside.
3. Reduced support functions of walls and foundations, which increase shrinkage processes.

Although it doesn’t raise project costs, using masonry mesh for aerated block walls greatly strengthens the house’s structure. In light of this, the developer lacks the financial justification to object to the use of this straightforward technology to preserve the home.

Types of reinforcement material

The horizontally arranged reinforced mesh used to reinforce aerated concrete walls needs to be sold in a chain of retail stores and come with quality certificates and a passport attesting to the modification’s suitability for load-bearing walls.

Furthermore, the reinforcement tape overlap that needs to be maintained during reinforcement must be disclosed by the matrix manufacturer. By fortifying the transverse joints, the overlap boundaries maximize the effectiveness of the reinforcement and guarantee the adhesive strength stipulated by the standards.

If the requirements for strength indicators are satisfied, a fiberglass or basalt mesh is typically used for aerated concrete walls.

Thus, basalt matrices—which are used to reinforce load-bearing aerated concrete walls—have tensile strengths that are comparable to those of steel matrices. Because fiberglass lacks this strength, it should only be applied to interior non-load-bearing walls that do not experience heavy loads.

Metal galvanized

This is the initial iteration of the laying mesh, which was first applied to aerated concrete blocks with success. Because the original iterations of this matrix were made of ferrous metal, they were severely damaged by corrosion. Galvanized wire, measuring 3 to 5 mm, is now used to address this drawback when knitting the matrix, typically through welding.

Principal benefits of galvanized metal mesh:

1. High strength under tensile stresses, capable of ensuring the integrity of the masonry under significant shrinkage deformations.
2. Affordable price and good supply in all areas of the country.
3. Long service life, which with the correct installation technology significantly exceeds 15 years.

The potential for cold bridge formation is the primary drawback of this modification to the masonry mesh. The thickness of the laying seam increases if masonry technology is not followed or if a mesh with a tie wire thickness greater than 5 mm is utilized. Because concrete mortar is a good heat conductor, its ability to shield heat is diminished when its percentage of the wall’s total volume increases.

In the Russian Federation, the average cost of a 50*50*3 mm mesh is 200 rubles per square meter. The price per square of steel mesh without an anti-corrosion coating starts at 90 rubles.

Basalt

With its standard service life of several decades and its resistance to corrosion, this contemporary version of masonry mesh is a strong rival to traditional iron matrices.

Two varieties of basalt matrix exist:

• rolls, fine mesh with a width of up to 1 m, to create a leveling finishing layer;
• serpyanka in the form of a narrow strip no higher than 250 mm, in rolls up to 200 m, used for laying gas blocks, sealing panel joints, strengthening internal and external corners.

The primary advantages of the basalt masonry matrix are as follows:

1. Durability, the basalt base of the mesh has a decay period of hundreds of years.
2. Technological simplicity of installation, easily cut to the required size using metal scissors, precisely taking the required shape.
3. Highest load-bearing capacity.
4. Availability in transportation.
5. Minimal thermal conductivity, which prevents the creation of “cold bridges”.
6. Low weight of the product, more than 7 times less than that of a steel matrix.
7. Affordable price.

Low mechanical strength is the primary drawback of polymer masonry mesh for aerated block walls.

An average of 110 rubles per square meter.

Mounting perforated

A very popular kind of mesh. It is also advised to make this modification to reinforce interior wall partitions.

The name "perforated" refers to the narrow tape’s many holes in its galvanized metal construction. Gutter construction is not necessary when employing such building materials for reinforcement, which is done in a manner akin to that of laying reinforcement. Self-tapping screws are used to fasten the tape to the aerated concrete blocks directly.

Low design load buildings are the target audience for this approach. The tape is laid in many more parallel lines than, say, when laying metal reinforcement because its cross-section is much smaller than that of reinforcing bars.

Using this building material has the following benefits:

1. practicality;
2. high anti-corrosion resistance;
3. ease of transportation;
4. low material consumption when performing masonry, due to the absence of gutters in aerated concrete blocks.

The price per square is 150 rubles on average.

Fiberglass

A more recent development in masonry matrix technology, but it has already significantly eclipsed traditional reinforced steel.

Benefits of using fiberglass mesh to strengthen aerated concrete include:

• Does not form “cold bridges”.
• Anti-corrosion resistance.
• The highest terms of use, more than 50 years.
• Low weight, easy delivery and does not place unnecessary stress on the foundation.

Low mechanical strength in comparison to steel and basalt masonry matrix is a drawback of this type.

Fiberglass mesh is made in different cell sizes, just like galvanized mesh. The developer should consider the intended use of the wall structure as well as the necessary strength requirements when determining the size of such a grid.

Cell sizes should be smaller the higher they are. In actuality, reinforced mesh with cells measuring 25/50 mm is used to reinforce walls composed of aerated blocks.

An average of 140 rubles per square meter.

How to calculate the required quantity?

The dimensions of the block and its density D, the size of the house, and the quantity of window and door openings must all be taken into consideration when calculating the area of the reinforced mesh for aerated concrete walls.

Here’s an example of how to figure out how much masonry mesh is needed for aerated concrete walls:

• block dimensions – 600x300x200mm;
• block density – D 500 kg/m3;
• house perimeter 10x10m – 40 m;
• height of the walls of the house – 3 m;
• type of masonry – 1/2 block;
• laying seam thickness – 3 mm;
• laying frequency – 3 rows;
• total wall area: 40×3=120 m2;
• wall structure thickness 300 mm;
• required number of blocks 909 pcs.;
• volume of masonry mortar 1.15 m 3;
• number of rows of gas blocks with a laying seam (3 m – 10mm/1000×40): 200mm/1000=14 rows;
• quantity of masonry mesh 14 rows / 3 space x (300 mm + 20 mm reserve / 1000×40) = 59.7 m 2 .

Tools and consumables for work

The reinforcement of walls made of aerated concrete happens during the laying process, so the only tools required are those for working with aerated concrete.

• Toothed carriage for aerated concrete wall material, allows you to adjust the thickness of the masonry joint with subsequent uniform distribution over the surface.
• Notched trowel, an easier option for making masonry joints.
• A grater for polishing the cut area on additional gas blocks.
• Special hacksaw for working with gas blocks.
• Set of measuring instruments with level, ruler, tape measure and square.
• Mallet – for fixing pieces of gas blocks.
• Gripper for carrying aerated concrete products.
• Drill.
• Grinder for cutting reinforced mesh mesh.

Step-by-step instructions for installing reinforced mesh

Since grooves don’t need to be made, mesh reinforcement of aerated blocks is far simpler than reinforcement.

Technology for laying reinforced mesh:

1. Waterproofing is installed on the leveled surface of the base, after which the first row of blocks is laid on a 10 mm mortar. This is mandatory, even if the remaining rows of blocks will be laid on glue.
2. To completely drown the reinforcing mesh in the mortar, first lay out 1/2 of its volume, onto which the matrix is ​​fired, after which the layer is brought to the required size.
3. The width of the matrix is ​​set 6-8 mm larger than the width of the gas block. Such protrusions allow the developer to control during the laying process that the reinforcing mesh does not shift or get crushed.
4. When simultaneously finishing with a second brick layer, the reinforcing mesh should reach its middle.
5. The diameter of the mesh reinforcing bars should not exceed the thickness of the masonry joint 3 mm. If it is larger, the intersection points are carefully hammered into the gas blocks.
6. Then remove dust and pieces of blocks with a brush, apply an adhesive composition and install a row of gas blocks on top.

Difficulties and errors

Even though using contemporary aromatic nets for reinforcement is a simple process, it still needs to be done carefully because mistakes can erode the integrity of the wall.

The following are the primary mistakes that developers permit when reinforcing aerated concrete walls:

1. Incorrectly chosen reinforcement scheme, without taking into account the strength characteristics of gas blocks. The lower the strength class, the more layers of reinforcement need to be installed.
2. The first row of masonry has not been strengthened.
3. Reinforcement of openings for doors and windows has not been completed.
4. There is no reinforced belt under the floor slab or roof.
5. Violation of the alternation of layers for areas with maximum wind loads.

Cost of material and installation

The price of materials and the cost of covering the builders’ labor are the two main expenses associated with reinforcing walls constructed of aerated blocks. Usually, the cost of masonry includes this work, which varies based on the kind of reinforcement.

The average cost nowadays for gas block horizontal reinforcement is between 85 and 100 rubles/m2, while the average cost for vertical reinforcement is 140 rubles/m 2.

In the Russian region, the cost of an armored vessel varies depending on the material and cell size. For example, the most common modification of nets for wall reinforcement made of aerated concrete with 50×50 cells costs between 120 and 200 rubles on average.

Selecting the appropriate masonry mesh for reinforcing aerated concrete blocks is essential to guaranteeing the durability and structural soundness of your building endeavors. Despite being lightweight and insulating, aerated concrete needs certain kinds of reinforcement to increase its strength and longevity.

There are numerous varieties of reinforcing meshes available, each intended to fulfill a specific purpose. For instance, fiberglass mesh is lightweight and manageable, which makes it ideal for do-it-yourself projects and environments where corrosion resistance is crucial. However, galvanized steel mesh provides strong reinforcement and is the best choice for applications requiring a high level of strength, like load-bearing facades and walls.

To guarantee an efficient installation, there are specific guidelines that must be followed when adding reinforcing mesh to aerated concrete blocks. Make sure the surface is clean and clear of dust and debris before starting. To ensure good adhesion and coverage, evenly apply a suitable adhesive or mortar over the block surface prior to laying the mesh.

To achieve continuous reinforcement across joints and corners, overlap mesh sheets appropriately. This promotes overall stability by preventing cracks and distributing loads throughout the structure equally. Put the mesh in place firmly, making sure it lies flat and fits the block shapes perfectly, without any creases or gaps.

Finally, make sure the mesh has been installed correctly and integrated with the aerated concrete blocks by inspecting it. Incomplete or loosely covered areas should be looked for as they may reduce the reinforcement’s effectiveness. By following these recommendations, you can make the most of the strength and resilience of aerated concrete structures, making sure they endure the elements and the test of time.

Video on the topic

Assalt mesh reinforcement of aerated concrete

Oleg SE | Assalt mesh reinforcement of aerated concrete.

Reinforcing masonry from gas blocks using a basalt grid