Standard Size Available in Light Weight Bricks

Today’s construction technology offers a myriad of options when it comes to building materials. Traditional components have been improved upon to meet the growing and changing demands and requirements of modern structures. As building projects go higher and the need for robust but cost effective building materials arise, light weight bricks have been developed as a solution.

Light weight concrete bricks or Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) blocks are similar to conventional hollow building blocks but with a few added features and improvements. AAC is designed to be 80% lighter than conventional blocks while keeping the same strength, making them ideal for high rise buildings and structures. These blocks come in 625 mm lengths by 240 mm height, and are available in 90 mm, 100 mm, 150 mm, and 200 mm thicknesses. They are noticeably larger in length and height compared to conventional blocks, so laying them is easier because fewer blocks are needed for the same area coverage as regular blocks. Fewer blocks does not only mean easier and faster laying—it also translates to lower material and labor costs.

Despite its lightness, AAC blocks retain a good amount of strength, with a rated shear strength of .06 and a compressive strength of 3 N/mm2.  AAC blocks also have better acoustic properties for better soundproofing, as well as better thermal qualities that make them really good for insulation. They are likewise rated for fire resistance and are able to withstand temperatures up to 1200 degrees Celsius before failing. They are also impervious to water and have a low absorption rate, so they are moisture barrier materials for basements and below-ground applications (with little to no waterproofing necessary). AAC blocks are also certified for LEED compliance and are worked the same way as regular blocks, requiring no special tools or equipment.