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The Wooden Brick That Will Retire Steel and Concrete: Builds a House Structure in 7 Days Like Lego

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Clicking two Lego blocks together is one of the most accessible and universal pleasures for people of all ages. Sometimes, it can even serve as a medium for artists who turn constructions into unique pieces. In recent years, the Danish company's toys have also become a source of inspiration for engineers and manufacturers in the construction sector, as they seek methods to reduce the use of traditional materials like concrete and steel, known for their high environmental impact.

To minimize carbon footprint and promote greener, more efficient buildings, Belgian company Gablok has developed a system of insulating wooden blocks that assemble without the need for mortar, drying time, or specialized construction knowledge. This innovation not only saves materials but also speeds up construction, allowing the walls of a 200-square-meter house to be ready in just 7 days, according to its creators.

Behind this invention is Gabriel Lakatos, a professional with over 25 years of experience in traditional construction, who patented this system in 2018, inspired by classic Lego blocks. The goal? To enable anyone to build their own architectural project simply and sustainably, using combinations of eight basic blocks for floors and walls, along with connecting elements for all components.

How It Works

The Gablok system consists of blocks made from OSB (oriented strand board) wood panels and a graphite-expanded polystyrene (EPS) core. This combination provides a lightweight yet sturdy structure with excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties.

Gablok's various elements come in three different lengths—30 cm, 60 cm, and 90 cm—thoughthe height and depth of the blocks are always 30 cm. The medium-sized wooden block weighs just 7.5 kg, while the other elements weigh no more than 9 kg, making them highly manageable and eliminating the need for heavy machinery.

One of the system's key advantages is its thermal efficiency. Gablok blocks achieve a thermal conductivity of 0.15 W/m²K, exceeding current requirements for low-energy buildings. This translates to structures that require less energy for heating and cooling, leading to significant savings on gas and electricity bills while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Beyond its energy performance, Gablok stands out for its sustainability commitment. The EPS used in the blocks is an inert, stable material with no negative environmental impact. The OSB wood is reusable and recyclable, promoting circular construction and minimizing waste generation on-site.

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The Gablok construction process is remarkably fast and efficient. For example, the exterior walls of a 200-square-meter single-family home can be completed in a week, as demonstrated in a project in Xhendelesse (Belgium). This speed not only cuts labor costs but also reduces the noise and disruption typically associated with construction. However, the company estimates an average of 4 months for full project completion.

Construction Process

According to Gablok's website, everything starts with receiving project blueprints previously drafted by an architect. After analysis, adjustments are made if needed to fit Gablok block dimensions. A 3D sketch is then created, allowing the client to visualize the result clearly and accurately.

Four weeks after sketch validation, the Gablok self-build kit is ready for delivery. This includes the assembly plan and all structural elements needed to build the framework, excluding foundation slabs and roofing.

Once the project is approved, components are delivered in three phases for two-story buildings. First, a truck delivers materials for the ground floor, followed by elements for the floor structure—including beams specifically designed for assembly—and finally, materials for the upper floor. This staggered delivery system ensures the construction site doesn’t get overcrowded and assembly proceeds smoothly.

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The simplicity of assembly is another strength of Gablok. No heavy tools or specialized machinery are required. A ladder, a screwdriver, and the assembly guide are enough for builders to erect the structure of their new home. This accessibility democratizes construction, allowing anyone to bring their projects to life without relying solely on professionals.

Safety and Flexibility

In terms of safety and ergonomics, Gablok blocks are lightweight and easy to handle, reducing the physical effort needed to lift and work with them during construction. This not only improves working conditions but also lowers the risk of on-site accidents.

The system's flexibility allows it to be used in various types of buildings, from single-family homes to sheds, small extensions like studios, garages, or workshops. Pre-modeling the project on a computer facilitates the final integration of elements like roofs, doors, and windows, offering a customized solution tailored to each client's needs.

Gablok also aligns with off-site prefabrication trends, where components are produced in controlled environments and later assembled on-site. This approach not only enhances construction quality and precision but also reduces waste and the environmental impact of material transportation.

SourceEl Español