Should You Build with AAC Blocks or Red Bricks? Here's What You Need to Know

While planning a new construction plan, the most important consideration is which material to use. For years, we have been using red bricks as a common choice in India as a default material to choose from because red bricks have high durability and are sturdy. With the development of construction technology, there were advancements with AAC Blocks, which are environmentally conscious and sustainable. Here is a look at the comparing AACBlocks with Red blocks.

AAC Blocks vs Red Bricks: A Quick Glance

Everything You Need to Know About the Major Advantages of AAC Blocks

Light Weight & Speed of Construction:

AAC blocks are much lighter in weight, so there are no huge foundations and structural steel, which will accelerate construction and lower costs

Thermal & Sound Insulation:

AAC blocks help maintain cooler homes during hot weather and quieter homes, which reduces your energy bills

Environmentally Conscious:

AAC blocks use fly ash (waste) and will not exhaust natural resources like clay. This makes it a very sustainable choice

Cost Efficient:

Although the price per block may be higher, the lower install cost in mortar, steel, and labor means overall costs are usually lower.

For example:- a 100 sq ft wall with AAC blocks is probably less than half the price of a similar wall with red bricks

Fire & Pest Resistant:

AAC blocks are superior in fire resistance and not subject to pest intrusion

Advantages of red bricks

Proven Durability:

We can be confident that red bricks have proven their durability and longevity, and many structures are hundreds of years old! If you are building something monumental, or want it to last a couple of centuries, then there is no comparison to red bricks.

Traditional Appearance:

Many home owners and architects appreciate the traditional appearance of red bricks with their rich color and texture.

Higher compressive strength:

While autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) blocks can be strong, red bricks will have a slightly higher compressive strength, which can be important in specific load-bearing situations.

Considerations and Limitations

AAC Blocks: Their lifespan is more than adequate for residential buildings, but they lack the centuries-long track record of red bricks. They are also less suitable for intricate architectural detailing or the restoration of heritage structures

Red Bricks: Their heavy weight increases the dead load on structures, requiring more steel and concrete. Continuous clay extraction for brick production is also environmentally damaging

Which Should You Choose?

Choose AAC Blocks if:

• You want a modern, energy-efficient, and sustainable building.

• You’re constructing in a hot climate and want to save on energy bills.

• Speed and cost-effectiveness are priorities.

• The project is a residential or commercial building with a typical lifespan.

Stick to Red Bricks if:

• You value traditional aesthetics and proven longevity.

• You’re building a structure meant to last centuries or a heritage-style project.

• The local availability and cost of red bricks are favorable.

Conclusion

Both AAC Blocks and red bricks offer advantages in construction, depending on their use. AAC Blocks are fire resistant, have thermal insulating properties, are eco-friendly, and affordable to builders and developers. Choosing Red bricks in place of AAC Blocks will largely depend on the requirements of the project, the engineering, and the budget. Reach out to us for More Info.