Hourdi Block
Insutech Hourdi is a lightweight, cost-efficient Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) block with a hard cement surface coating, purpose-built for use as permanent formwork in reinforced concrete ribbed slab systems.
Engineered for the job it protects.
Insutech Hourdi is a lightweight, cost-efficient Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) block with a hard cement surface coating, purpose-built for use as permanent formwork in reinforced concrete ribbed slab systems. Each block features precision-drilled lines on its sides where concrete is poured to maximise the cohesive bond between the concrete and the block, delivering superior structural integrity. Two lateral control lines on each side ensure accurate positioning and alignment during the casting process.
Available in standard and customisable dimensions, Insutech Hourdi blocks significantly reduce structural dead load, steel reinforcement requirements, and overall concrete consumption — delivering construction cost savings of up to 30%. Their innovative geometric shape increases the surface area for bonding between the block, mortar shell, and concrete ceiling, ensuring outstanding structural performance throughout the building’s service life.
Board size: Cut to project dimensions from raw blocks of 200 × 125 × 100 cm or 400 × 120 × 100 cm.
- Increases strength and coherence between mortar shell and roof concrete
- Reduces construction cost by up to 30% through reduced steel reinforcement requirements
- Reduces concrete consumption in slabs through its innovative geometric shape
- Increases surface area for bonding between block, mortar shell, and concrete ceiling
- Lightweight and easy to move and use without heavy equipment
- Near-zero scrap and waste on site
- Enables wider spans with less reinforcement
- Ideal for raising internal building levels and heightening applications
- Reduces CO₂ emissions through lower material consumption
Insutech Hourdi Blocks
| Property | Code | Test Method | Unit | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cement Surface Thickness | cm | 1.5 – 2 | ||
| Compressive Strength | CS(10/Y) | EN 826 | kPa | ≥ 80 kPa |
| Bending Strength | BS | EN 12089 | kPa | ≥ 150 kPa |
| Water Absorption (Immersion) | WL(T) | EN 12087 | % vol | ≤ 3 |
| Fire Rating | EN 13501-1 | Euroclass | E |
*Insutech reserves the right to modify product specifications, descriptions, and technical information at any time without prior notice.
Application, Step by Step.
Set out the block layout from the drawings, confirming spans, spacing and bearing details before any blocks are placed on site.
Prepare and level the supporting joists, beams or substrate, checking that bearings are clean, aligned and ready to receive blocks.
Place the blocks tightly together along the supports, working row by row and cutting end pieces cleanly for a snug, stable fit.
Check lines, levels and joints across the whole area, adjusting any misplaced blocks before reinforcement or services are installed.
Fix the specified reinforcement and route any services, keeping the block surfaces undamaged and joints fully closed throughout.
Pour the structural topping or finish layers as specified, compacting carefully so the completed system performs as it was designed.
