Installation of AAC Block and Panel

Due to the similarity to traditional concrete masonry, autoclaved aerated concrete units (block) can be easily installed by concrete masons. Sometimes, carpenters get involved in installation. Panels are heavier due to their size and require the use of a crane for placement. Manufacturers offer training seminars, and it’s usually adequate to have one or two knowledgeable installers on small projects. Depending on the type of finish selected, they can be directly adhered or mechanically attached to the face of AAC.

 Block

(1) First course is laid and leveled. Blocks are stacked together with a thin-bed mortar in a running bond with a minimum of 6-inch overlap.

(2) Walls are plumbed, leveled, and squared with a rubber mallet.

(3) Openings and odd angles are cut with a handsaw or bandsaw.

(4) Reinforcement locations are determined, rebar placed, and grouting occurs. Grout must be mechanically vibrated to consolidate it.

(5) Bond beams are placed at the top of the wall and can be used for heavy-duty fixture attachment.

Panels

(1) Panels are placed one at a time, starting from the corner. Panels are set into a layer of thin-bed mortar and vertical rebar is attached to dowels extending up from the floor before the adjacent panel is placed.

(2) A continuous bond beam is created at the top, either with plywood and AAC material or with bond beam block.

(3) Openings can be precut or field cut.