Rebecca Foster investigates the latest solutions for building with blockwork

There’s a host of reasons why traditional brick and block remains the most popular build method for new homes in the UK. For starters, it’s tried and tested, materials are widely available with little to no lead time, and there’s a ready supply of builders who are skilled and experienced in constructing high quality masonry homes. What’s more, it can offer a cost-effective route to creating a bespoke house.

Yet, self builders have always been ahead of the curve when it comes to seeking out innovative ways to construct their homes. For many people, the ability to go a step beyond with thermal performance is an increasingly important priority, especially as the cost of energy continues to soar. So, despite masonry’s popularity, a growing number of solutions are entering the market as an alternative to the traditional cavity wall setup.

The basics

First up, let’s get to grips with what a conventional masonry system comprises. Typically, it’s an inner layer of blockwork, built up in courses, with an outer skin of brickwork. A space is left between the two leafs so insulation can be installed in the middle. Lightweight, easy to handle blocks made from aerated concrete have dominated the UK’s construction sector since the 1980s. But to understand how modern alternatives are breaking new ground, it’s important to drill down into some of the potential issues a traditional system presents.