Why are high rise structures constructed in AAC blocks,but not bricks(red clay/fly ash)?

Construction Materials, Home Construction Tips / By

Advantages to Builders for Using AAC blocks in High Rise Construction:

  • AAC blocks are very light as compared to Flyash and Red clay bricks. AAC blocks (density 550-600 Kg/cum) are roughly one third the weight of the Red clay / fly ash bricks (1800 Kg/cum / 2200 Kg/cum resp.).
  • The lesser unit weight helps reduce the dead weight of structure, thereby reducing the steel consumption in high rise structures. Builders can have a substantial cost saving because of this.This advantage is more prominent or best exploited in high rise construction (typically 12 stories and above)
  • Since AAC blocks are porus (porus but pores are not interconnected), they tend to absorb less water while construction.
  • Apart from that AAC blocks are easy to carry and install saving time and money for the builders.
  • These advantages make AAC blocks more preferable for builders as compared to the traditional & Fly ash bricks.
Why AAC blocks are preferred by builders rather than Red clay bricks

Advantages to House Owners for Using AAC Blocks in High Rise Construction:

Since AAC blocks are porus (porus but pores are not interconnected), they tend to act as a good insulation material both for Heat and Sound. This reduces the electricity consumption for Individuals Home Owners.

So AAC blocks are:

  1. Resource efficient
  2. Energy efficient with low thermal conductivity
  3. Low in water absorption
  4. Has decent compressive strength say above 65kg/ cm2