GenBlock
PBM GenBlock is a precast concrete masonry system designed primarily for non-load-bearing internal partition walls. The series comprises 12 modules built around a multi-cavity profile that reduces unit weight, accommodates electrical and plumbing services within the wall, and supports both traditional cement-sand mortar and SkimBond thin-bed mortar installation.
The standard 115mm width fits door and window frames without packing, and the system’s 390 × 190mm face dimension coordinates with the wider PBM Hollow Block range. Connection variants (L, P, T, U) provide clean corners, T-junctions, and lintels without on-site cutting; the GenBrick and Solid Block formats extend the system to thin walls, columns, and load-concentration points.
Applications
- Non-load-bearing internal partition walls in residential, commercial, and institutional buildings
- Service walls - concealed routing of electrical conduits and plumbing
- Boundary walls in light, non-structural applications
- Hotel and serviced apartment interior walls
- School, university, and institutional internal walls
Key Features
- Multi-cavity profile reduces unit weight and accommodates services routing within the wall
- 115mm standard width fits standard door and window frames without packing or shimming
- 220mm wide-format option for thicker partitions and improved acoustic performance
- Complete connection set - L (left corner), P (right corner), T (junction), U (channel) - for clean wall geometries without on-site cutting
- Flat surface profile reduces skim coat material consumption
- Cavities sized to accommodate electrical conduits and water piping vertically and horizontally
FAQ —
What's the difference between GenBlock and traditional Hollow Block?
PBM Hollow Block is the traditional precast masonry unit with two large cavities, used across structural and partition applications including load-bearing walls, lintels, and bond beams. GenBlock is PBM’s improved partition block with multiple smaller cavities – optimised specifically for non-load-bearing internal walls. The multi-cavity profile reduces weight, accommodates utilities piping, and works with SkimBond thin-bed mortar for faster construction. Choose Hollow Block for structural and traditional applications; GenBlock for non-load-bearing internal partitions where ease of installation and finishing efficiency are the priority.
What is SkimBond and when should I use it?
SkimBond is a thin-bed mortar adhesive that allows much thinner joints than standard 1:3 cement-sand mortar. It accelerates installation, reduces material waste, and produces a cleaner wall ready for thinner skim coat. Use SkimBond where speed and finish quality are priorities – typically interior partition walls in commercial fit-outs and serviced apartments. Standard mortar remains the default for general construction.
Can GenBlock be used in load-bearing walls?
GenBlock is primarily designed for non-load-bearing partitions. For load-bearing applications, the PBM Hollow Block range (140mm and 190mm widths) is the appropriate selection. Where occasional load concentration points exist within a GenBlock wall, the Solid Block (SB 115.01) can be specified at those positions.
How do I install electrical and plumbing through GenBlock walls?
GenBlock cavities are designed to accommodate vertical and horizontal services runs without subsequent chasing. Coordinate cavity alignment with the M&E contractor before laying – align cavities with intended outlet, switch, and service positions. Where post-installation cuts are needed, use a wet diamond saw and avoid cutting close to load-bearing reveals or jambs. Fill chase channels with mortar or grout flush with the wall face before applying skim coat.
What's the difference between the L, P, T, and U variants?
- L (left corner) — forms a clean external wall corner where the wall turns from one direction to a perpendicular one
- P (right corner / reverse L) — mirrored profile of the L block, used at right-hand corners or in alternating courses to avoid running joints
- T (T-junction) — used where one partition wall meets another at right angles, with structural continuity through the junction
- U (U-channel) — open channel block used for lintels above door / window openings and for bond beams within the wall course, accepting reinforcement bar and concrete fill