Concrete Block Making: How to Start a Concrete Block Making Business

There has been a significant increase in the use of concrete block for building construction. The strength and durability of the products attest to its increasing popularity.

They are easy to make, durable and aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Concrete block making is highly profitable however it comes with a few challenges.

The small business owner needs funds to secure a good location and purchase equipment. The business format is small, medium or large production based on the company structure.

The machines used in the production process are automated, semi-automated or hand molded. They are expensive an come in different sizes and functionality.

The hollow concrete blocks are fire resistant, durable and appealing. Here are a few ideas on how to start your concrete block making business.

How to start a Concrete Block Making Business

Write a Concrete Making Business Plan

Before starting the enterprise you need to know what it entails. Write a concrete block making business plan and include startup cost.

Focus on type of equipment, landed space and sourcing materials. Other things in your plan should include labor and marketing strategy. It is important to carry out a feasibility study and register your business.

Landed Property for the Concrete Block Company

The type of land you need should be open and able to accommodate a concrete block assembly line. The open space is also practicable for mixing and molding the blocks.

Lease a property close to raw materials or in a developing area. Apply for bank loans or get a core investor to raise funds.

Raw Materials Used in Making Concrete Blocks

The major raw materials used in making concrete blocks are sand, cement, water and gravel. Purchase the cement from wholesalers in your community including sand and gravel.

Concrete Blocks Making Machine

There is a large range of concrete block making machines in the market. We have the low, medium and high production plants

Low Concrete Block Production Plants

There are a few things to consider before purchasing a low production plant. Despite its reduced cost should be durable with low maintenance.

 It should have the ability to manufacture a full range of products and low setup costs. Some machines are suitable for rural areas and are low capacity, high quality machines. Low capacity machines require limited operational skill and stage conveyor system.

Medium Concrete Block Production Plants

Medium production plants a suitable for manufacturers with limited budget. Some feature a full range of customized moulds and reduced setup costs.

Other features are easy move-ability to site, full range of products and fully or semi-automatic. The machinery is ideal for medium capacity companies. The most important specification is ability to produce high quality products.

High Concrete Block Production Plants

You get a full range of high production plants in the market. The plants produce high capacity, high quality concrete blocks.

The plants are either fully automated or semi-automated configured. They come with customized moulds, reduced setup costs, easily moved and produce full range of products.

They can be configured to increase production output and customized to client’s requirement. The price deferential of concrete block making machine depends on the manufacturer and functionality. The price starts from $3000-$60000 USD for new machines.

Manual Concrete Block Production Method

A small one man concrete making business unable to buy branded or locally fabricated machines can make their own moulds. The moulds are made from plywood with an inner cavity, length and width.

The box should have one side open and measure 200mm width, 300mm length and 150mm thickness.  The manufacturer can also purchase cast iron molds to use repeatedly.

How to Make Concrete Blocks

The methodology is the same with very few variations. To make concrete blocks you need sand, cement, water and gravel.

 Some manufacturers use crushed stones instead of gravel. Mix one portion of cement, two for sand and three for gravel.

 Mix them together dry until you achieve a uniform color and consistency before adding water. Pour the concrete mixture gently into mold to reach every corner. 

The mixture goes through vibration, setting and curing. The finished product should be kept under cover for several days.

Marketing the Concrete Blocks.

Sell your concrete blocks to real estate developers, building contractors and construction sites. You need a delivery truck, skilled labor and sales clerk.

Advertise in electronic and print media. Place advertisements in local publications and construction magazines.

Visit construction sites and offer better prices including delivery of products.
Start a Block Making Business