I have searched all over but cant seem to get any solid answer. Much of what is written either ends in arguing or completely opposite opinions so I though I would post my own circumstances.
I have dug strip foundations for my dwarf wall and part filled with concrete which has now been curing for some time. The next step is to raise this up too ground level. For this I wanted to use Thermalite Blocks for both skins for speed, ease and cost. Currently I need to come up about 300mm to hit ground level.
So my questions are:
1. Can I use my thermalite blocks for both skins (outside is to be rendered)
2. There is about 2inch of water in the trench which may come obviously return so I guess I must infill the cavity to ground level - what would be best for this?
3. If using the thermalite blocks on the outer skin I would want to render the course that enters the ground to protect from frost. What method do I use to avoid DPC bridging.
4. What stops the wall being very weak at the dpc level? does the cement bond well to dpc?
Obviously if you think there is a better way of doing it please say but I already have the block and I am on a really tight budget. I understand courses of engineering brick would be better outside but I am trying to avoid that.
Many thanks in advance to anyone who can help with solid advice. Please don't add any replies where you are not sure because its certain to go off topic quickly.
Thanks
James
I have dug strip foundations for my dwarf wall and part filled with concrete which has now been curing for some time. The next step is to raise this up too ground level. For this I wanted to use Thermalite Blocks for both skins for speed, ease and cost. Currently I need to come up about 300mm to hit ground level.
So my questions are:
1. Can I use my thermalite blocks for both skins (outside is to be rendered)
2. There is about 2inch of water in the trench which may come obviously return so I guess I must infill the cavity to ground level - what would be best for this?
3. If using the thermalite blocks on the outer skin I would want to render the course that enters the ground to protect from frost. What method do I use to avoid DPC bridging.
4. What stops the wall being very weak at the dpc level? does the cement bond well to dpc?
Obviously if you think there is a better way of doing it please say but I already have the block and I am on a really tight budget. I understand courses of engineering brick would be better outside but I am trying to avoid that.
Many thanks in advance to anyone who can help with solid advice. Please don't add any replies where you are not sure because its certain to go off topic quickly.
Thanks
James