Besser block
By George Giannakakis · B.Arch.Studies · M.Arch (UniSA) · RLA300580
Last reviewed: · How we research
"Two courses of Besser, core-filled, then the sleepers."
Regional note: Besser nationally. Queensland says "blockwork" for whole houses.
Besser block explained in detail
A hollow concrete block, usually 390 x 190 x 190mm. Besser was a brand (an American machine maker) that became the generic Australian word. Used for retaining walls, garages, fences and the ground floor of many Queensland homes. Also spelled Bessa. Core-filled and reinforced, it is a proper structural wall.
Retaining walls are one of the most overlooked - and potentially expensive - aspects of building a new home. In this episode, we explain why even seemingly flat blocks can require retaining, how it can impact your home design and budget, who is responsible for the cost, and the key questions every buyer should ask before signing a contract.
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