We need to take into account the dimensions of the blocks as well as the total surface area of the walls in order to calculate the number of blocks required to construct a room with dimensions of 12 by 12. Assume for the moment that we are working with normal concrete blocks that have dimensions of 8 inches by 8 inches by 16 inches (8x8x16 inches) and that the thickness of the mortar joint is 3/8 inch.
We have a square-shaped room with equal measurements of 12 feet by 12 feet, so we can calculate the total wall area by multiplying the width of the walls by the height of the walls. Since the room is square, this gives us a total wall area of 12 square feet.
Surface Area of Wall = Length Times Height
Wall Area equals 96 square feet, which is calculated as 12 feet by 8 feet.
Adjust for mortar joints: When calculating the number of blocks, we need to make sure that we take into account the amount of space that is taken up by mortar joints. Taking into account a thickness of 3/8 inch (0.375 inches) for the mortar joints, the following adjustments can be made to the measurements of the blocks:
Dimensions of the Block Have Been Adjusted:
The length is equal to 8 inches minus 0.375 inches, which equals 7.625 inches.
Height = 8 inches – 0.375 inches = 7.625 inches
Calculate the number of blocks: In order to calculate the number of blocks that will be needed, we will first need to calculate the net surface area of a single block (taking into account the mortar joints), and then we will need to divide the total wall area by the net surface area of a single block.
Block’s Effective Surface Area Equals Its Length Times Its Height
The block has a net surface area equal to 7.625 inches by 7.625 inches, which is equal to 58.328 square inches.
Determine the wall area in square inches as follows:
Wall Area (sq in) = Wall Area (sq ft) 144 Wall Area (sq in) = 96 sq ft 144 = 13,824 sq in Wall Area (sq ft) = 13,824 sq in Wall Area (sq in) = 144 sq ft 144 = 13,8
Wall Area (in Square Feet) divided by Net Surface Area of Block = Number of Blocks
Number of Blocks = 13,824 square inches divided by 58.328 square inches, which is 237 blocks
If one uses the dimensions provided for the block size and mortar joint thickness, then one will require around 237 blocks to build a room that is 12 by 12 inches.
Please take into consideration that this estimate does not take into account other considerations such as waste, corner blocks, or apertures for doors or windows. It is recommended that you seek the advice of a specialist or a contractor in order to obtain a more precise calculation based on the requirements of your particular project.
