Hempcrete blocks

What is Hempcrete?

Like its eponym – concrete – hempcrete is a mixture of materials that harden to become a construction material. It’s made of hemp hurd (also called shives) and lime.

Its primary purpose in construction is as thermal insulation. It can be used in the entire building envelope – walls, floors and roof. As hempcrete doesn’t have inherent structural benefits, it is typically used in conjunction with a structural timber frame.

Hempcrete can also be used to upgrade the thermal performance of an existing building (internally or externally).

Is Hempcrete a replacement for concrete?

In short, no. The name is a little misleading (although there are similarities in the mixing and hardening and possibly the look of the material).

Hempcrete does not have anywhere near the compressive strength of concrete and so cannot be used as a structural element alone.

However, some entrepreneurial companies have come up with systems combining Hempcrete blocks with reinforced concrete or Lego-style Hempcrete blocks with a hidden epoxy structure as pictured above.

Benefits of Hempcrete

Discuss with an architect

If you’re looking to get quotes for your self-build or extension project, we specialise in matching homeowners to the right architect for their project. Simply post your project below and we’ll match you up with the best architects for your needs. And it’s completely free!

• Quickly see which architects are interested in your job
• Create a shortlist
• Invite up to three for a no-obligation consultation

Emily  Design for Me

   Follow us

Find your perfect design pro within minutes…

Here at Design for Me we match you with the right design professional, from thousands all over the UK. Get quotes & arrange up to three no obligation consultations. And it’s all completely free! Find out more here or get started below…

• My project is*
  Please select...an extensiona new build housea renovationa conversionan interior design projecta garden design projectother
• Budget*
  Please select...£0 - £5,000£5,000 - £10,000£10,000 - £20,000£20,000 - £40,000£40,000 - £60,000£60,000 - £80,000£80,000 - £100,000£100,000 - £150,000£150,000 - £200,000£200,000 - £300,000£300,000 - £400,000£400,000 - £500,000£500,000 - £500,000+
• Postcode*
• description

• Your contact details will not be displayed publicly nor shared with anyone without your prior consent. By proceeding, you agree to Design for Me's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

• Email*
• Name*

  
  
  First
  

  
  
  Last