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Types of Bricks and Blocks

The strength durability cost and aesthetics of a structure are all greatly impacted by the building materials used in the construction industry. Bricks and blocks are among the materials that are used the most. The basic building blocks for walls partitions and other structural components are these units. Numerous varieties of bricks and blocks are available each with special qualities and uses. Brick Types: 1. Bricks made of clay (burnt bricks) The most widely used and conventional bricks in construction are made of burned clay. Clay is molded into a rectangular shape dried and then fired in kilns to create them. These bricks are robust long-lasting and appropriate for all kinds of buildings. They are categorized according to their quality into four grades (Class I to IV). 2. Bricks made of Fly Ash Fly ash cement gypsum and lime are the ingredients used to make fly ash bricks. Compared to clay bricks these environmentally friendly bricks are lighter have smooth surfaces and provide su...

Advantages of AAC Block



Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) blocks are a modern construction material that has replaced the use of red bricks or concrete blocks because of their immense benefits. They are composed of cement, lime, sand, fly ash, water, and an aerating agent which are then autoclaved under high-pressure steam curing. This unique manufacturing process provides them with high compressive strength and a lightweight, porous structure. The following are the major advantages of using AAC blocks in construction
Lightweight
Compared to bricks and concrete blocks, AAC blocks are much lighter in weight. Their density of 550 to 650 kg/m³ makes their density almost 1/3 of clay bricks. This makes their transportation easier and construction quicker. Furthermore, AAC blocks reduce load on the structure foundations.
Thermal Insulation
AAC blocks provide exceptional thermal insulation which is one of their many useful characteristics. The air pockets within the blocks serve as a barrier which saves energy during cooling and heating of the interiors. As a result, utility bills are significantly reduced.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Exterior walls of AAC blocks can be painted or coated with a siding material such as veneer or plaster, the prospect of coloring agents that gives the opportunity to make a facade of any color. In addition, they require less energy and give off fewer greenhouse gases in the manufacturing process. They are non-toxic, recyclable and contribute to lower construction carbon footprint.
Faster Construction
The workability of AAC light weight blocks is better which reduces considerably the thickness of the plaster. Workers can assemble them more speedily than traditional bricks. This decreases labor costs and project time.
Fire Resistance
Since there is no cavity to create the airflow, there is no chance for the building to catch on fire from the outside due to airflow, even if the AAC block is exposed, and due to the nature of the material, the structure will not burn either. (The AAC block is manufactured up to 1200°C. ). So, AAC is a fire resistant material, and does not degrade under normal fire conditions. Being fire-proof contributes to the safety of the building and its users.
Sound Insulation
The air entrapped in the wall can also absorb and reduce sound, achieving acoustic insulation. Making them great for schools, hospitals, hotels and offices where noise reduction is critical. They help to make an interior environment tranquil.
Pest and Mold Resistant
AAC blocks are inorganic they do not promote growth of mold, algae, or bacteria. They are also pest-proof, so termites and rodents cannot chew their way through them. This helps to promote healthier, more enduring buildings.
Precision and Uniformity
AAC blocks are made in large-scale, automated production facilities, which allow dimensional accuracy and quality control. This equates to reduced variation in block sizes, improved construction alignment and a flatter surface, meaning less finishing is required from second stage plastering and rendering.
Reduced Mortar Usage
As AAC blocks have size bigger, and regularity in shape, therefore they require less mortar in jointing. Thin-bed mortar is used in place of ordinary cement mortar, so as to save the material and cost to more extent.
Structural Efficiency
The lesser weight of AAC blocks reduces the dead load of a building. This leads to a more economic sizing of structural members such as beams, columns or foundations. It also enhances seismic performance, allowing buildings to better withstand earthquakes.
Cost-Effective in the Long Run
Initial cost of AAC blocks may be higher than of red bricks; however, construction in turn costs disheartening of higher labour cost, material cost, energy cost, and time. AAC is cost effective over the life cycle of a building.
Low Water Absorption
AAC blocks have less water absorption as compared to clay bricks, thereby reducing the risk of dampness and increasing the life of your walls. It also reduces the possibilities for efflorescence or cracking of paint or plaster.
Better Surface Finish
AAC depending on surface smoothness does not need excessive doses of plaster and finishing. This decreases the time and money spent on finishing. The blocks can also be painted or wallpapered straight on, providing the structure with contemporary texture.
Versatility
They are used in many of the same applications as conventional blocks however because of their lightweight design, they are often more versatile. AAC blocks can be used in numerous applications including internal and external walls, partition walls, load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls. They are ideal for low rise and high rise buildings.
Improved Workability
AAC blocks can be worked like wood, sawed, drilled, and also which permits holes and channels to be drilled wherever it is required, simplifying the work of manufacturing and in-site installation of plumbing and electrical conduits. This simplifies and expedites post-construction work. 
 AAC blocks, which have many benefits over conventional materials, are revolutionizing the way buildings are built. They are a great option for contemporary infrastructure because of its low weight, thermal insulation, environmental friendliness, and speed of construction. AAC blocks are positioned to be a key component of building technology in the future as the construction sector shifts toward sustainable and energy-efficient solutions. AAC is becoming more and more popular among architects, builders, and homeowners because to its long-term advantages in terms of performance, quality, and affordability.

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