I am considering the "grande" style blocks for a DIY 30x60' garage in Oakhurst, TX:
http://www.crescoconcrete.com/
I see the following benefits:
Only moderate skills necessary--no mortar expertise.
Blocks are only 20 lb and easy to stack and align.
Cresco video does not do it, but it seems I can bolt them solidly to the foundation as often as I like.
R19 inherent in every block.
Easy to finish/seal with a thick stucco paint.
Blocks are locally made in Houston.
Garage is on the highway, so great sound control
Concerns:
1) Like Hebel, the blocks are actually metric. The layout must be in metric or it won't match up.
2) If it is such a great idea, why isn't everybody doing it? I got no hits for Liteblok in forum search engine.
3) Looks like a pain to get mortar down the little holes.
Cresco also has a crew that will install the walls in 3 days. That seems pretty good. I bought a pickup load to play with and it seems workable. I was also thinking I might do the easy bottom section myself and let the crew do the top half (if they will agree).
Any experience with these blocks would be appreciated.
Joe |