Choose expanded clay concrete. What is better expanded clay concrete blocks or gas silicate

Engineering systems 29.08.2019
Engineering systems

The construction of a country house from modern heat-efficient ceramic blocks is economically less expensive than from expanded clay concrete blocks.

If we do not limit ourselves to comparing the cost of 1 m 3 of blocks, but consider all costs, it becomes clear that when choosing heat-efficient ceramic blocks, the savings will be 250-350 thousand rubles.

At the same time, in all main characteristics, heat-efficient ceramic blocks are superior to expanded clay concrete blocks:

  • strength grade of heat-efficient ceramic blocks - M75, expanded clay concrete blocks - M35-M50;
  • thermal resistance of the outer wall of heat-efficient ceramic blocks - 3.73 m 2 *S/W, thermal resistance of the outer wall of expanded clay concrete blocks with the included layer of mineral wool insulation 100mm - 3.48 m 2 *S/W.

The argument for this thesis is given below. No ads - just numbers!

AT last years construction low-rise buildings from expanded clay concrete blocks rapidly losing popularity.

Main reasons 2.

  1. The need to use a layer of insulation in the construction of the outer wall. Otherwise, the constructed housing does not meet the requirements (below is a thermal engineering calculation of the structure). Insulation is the weak link in construction, its service life is 30-35 years, after which an expensive facade repair with replacement of thermal insulation will be required (more on this below).
  2. Higher construction costs compared to the main competitors - heat-efficient ceramic blocks and aerated concrete blocks.
Expenses when choosing expanded clay concrete blocks for the construction of a house with an area of ​​​​140-150m 2 are below for about 100-150 thousand rubles.

And this is true if we consider conventional large-format ceramic blocks with void geometry rectangular or diamond shape. The technology for the production of ceramic blocks with such a geometry of voids was adopted by German manufacturers of building ceramics in the early 80s. Majority Russian manufacturers ceramic blocks were able to master and are currently implementing this outdated technology.
Warm specifications such blocks make it possible to provide SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" when using blocks with a diamond-shaped void geometry with a thickness of 440mm, and in the case of using blocks with a rectangular void geometry with a thickness of 510mm.

The construction industry does not stand still, 15 years ago German engineers developed a technology for the production of ceramic blocks with a more heat-efficient lattice (void geometry). In Russia, this technology was the first to be mastered by the Samara Combine of Ceramic Materials, and for 10 years it has been producing blocks of the line Superthermo.
In the middle of 2017, the Samara plant discontinued the production of blocks of the line Superthermo, because they were replaced by blocks with an even more heat-efficient design - these are the blocks of the line Caiman.

What's the Difference best block Russia from usual ceramic block?

4 signs of real warm ceramics.

1. When we choose from which multi-hollow slotted ceramic block to build our house, an important parameter is not overall size block, and the length of the ceramic tracks. It is along them that the heat flow moves, because. the air in closed chambers is an excellent insulator. In a more modern ceramic block Cayman30, the path that the heat flow will have to overcome is longer;

2. Please note that ceramic track at the block Cayman30 has a smaller thickness than conventional ceramic blocks, the smaller the thickness of the path, the less heat flow will pass through it per unit time;

3. Real warm ceramics cannot have a strength grade of M100 or more, because. an increase in brand strength is achieved due to the higher density of clay, the denser the material, the better it transmits heat. At Cayman30 compressive strength grade M75, this is due to the fact that heat-efficient ceramic blocks Cayman30 high porosity of the clay itself. Air microchambers also increase the path length for heat flow. At the same time, the strength grade M75 allows you to use Cayman30 as a self-supporting unit in buildings up to 5 floors.;

4. And finally, the last, patented know-how in block design Cayman30, this is a heat-efficient lock of side docking of blocks, Cayman30 the castle is a long sawtooth path for heat to escape from the house, in an outdated model of ordinary ceramic blocks, the heat in the castle flows along a straight and thick path.

Here you can see Thermal conductivity test report for Kerakam Kaiman 30 ceramic blocks
You can find the value of the thermal conductivity coefficient in the operational state at the end of the document.

Let's compare expanded clay concrete blocks with heat-efficient ceramic blocks Cayman30 on the example of a specific house, with an area of ​​166.6 m 2, designed by our design office.

1,200 projects of houses of our development can be viewed on the page Projects of houses included in the action Project a house for free.

  • Below is a comparison of the main characteristics of the materials under consideration, as well as the features of their installation.
  • The thermotechnical calculation of the structures of external walls made of expanded clay concrete blocks and ceramic blocks Cayman30, prepared according to the methodology of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings".
  • And to top it off, a comparative calculation of the cost of building a house was made when choosing expanded clay concrete blocks or ceramic blocks Kerakam Cayman30.

Looking ahead, I inform you that the choice in favor of building a house from a ceramic block Kerakam Kaiman 30, superior in all characteristics, will not lead to an increase in costs, but, on the contrary, to their decrease by 252 420 rubles.

You can see the calculation in numbers below, at the end of the article. In the comparative calculation, the price was used expanded clay concrete block 45 rub/piece, the cost of a heat-efficient ceramic block Cayman30 was taken equal 95 rub/piece including delivery to the object.

Let's compare the considered materials - expanded clay concrete blocks and ceramic blocks Kerakam Cayman30 by characteristics.

1. Strength.

The strength of wall materials is determined by the limiting pressure of the distributed load on the test sample and is characterized by the number of kilograms of force (kgf) applied to one square centimeter of the material surface.

So ceramic block Kerakam Cayman30 has a strength grade M75, which means that one square centimeter able to withstand a load of 75 kg.

The value of the strength grade of expanded clay concrete block is quite low and varies from M35 to M50 for different manufacturers. As a result, according to the instructions of the manufacturers of expanded clay concrete blocks, every third row of masonry should be reinforced; for this, grooves are made in the expanded clay concrete blocks for laying reinforcement.



Ceramic block masonry Kerakam Kaiman 30 reinforced only at the corners of the building, per meter in each direction. For reinforcement, a basalt-plastic mesh is used, which is laid in the masonry joint. Labor-intensive chasing and subsequent covering of the reinforcement in the strobe with glue is not required.

Masonry mortar during the installation of ceramic blocks is applied only along the horizontal masonry seam. The bricklayer applies the solution immediately to one and a half to two meters of masonry and starts each next block along the groove-ridge. The laying is very fast.

When installing expanded clay concrete blocks, the mortar must also be applied to side surface blocks. It is obvious that the speed and laboriousness of masonry with this method of installation will only increase.

Also, for professional masons, sawing ceramic blocks is not a problem. For this purpose, it is used reciprocating saw. In each row of the wall, only one block is required to be cut.




2. The ability of the structures under consideration to resist heat transfer, i.e. keep the house warm in winter, cool in summer.

To ensure the SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" in the construction of the outer wall, erected from expanded clay concrete blocks, it is necessary to include a layer of thermal insulation. As noted above insulation is the weak link in design, service life 30-35 years old, after which an expensive repair of the facade with the replacement of thermal insulation will be required. As a heat-insulating layer can be used:
  • mineral wool insulation
  • expanded polystyrene PSBS M25,
  • extruded polystyrene foam.
Extruded polystyrene foam material is quite new, but it is believed that its service life in the structure will exceed 30-35 years, which is the limit for mineral wool and M25 expanded polystyrene. The cost of extruded polystyrene foam is higher, but also thermal characteristics this type of insulation is superior to that of mineral wool board and expanded polystyrene. As a result, using extruded polystyrene foam, the required thermal resistance of the structure can be achieved with a smaller layer thickness, i.e. it will be required less, which partially compensates for the high cost cubic meter extruded polystyrene foam.

At the same time, it is necessary to understand that expanded polystyrenes have a very low vapor permeability, which affects the comfort of living in houses made of expanded clay concrete blocks insulated with expanded polystyrenes. Also, attention should be paid to the fact that this species insulation contains styrene. Styrene is a poison of general toxic action, it has an irritant, mutagenic and carcinogenic effect, belongs to the second (GN 2.1.6.1338-033) hazard class. More about toxic properties styrene, see Wikipedia.

Mineral wool insulation, unlike expanded polystyrenes, has good vapor permeability. This improves the indicator of living comfort in the house, but imposes requirements for the arrangement of multi-layer vapor-permeable structures, in particular, between the surface of the insulation and the laying of the front brick, it is necessary to arrange an air gap of 40-50 mm, ensuring free air circulation in it, for this, air ducts are arranged in the front masonry. Vertical masonry seams are cleared from the mortar, one seam per 3 m 2. Creating a ventilation gap increases the overall thickness of the outer wall, which will entail an increase in the thickness of the foundation wall, and this, in turn, will affect the cost of foundation work.
It should also be noted that most mineral wool insulation (yellow-green-brown boards) contains phenol, which is used to glue stone or glass fibers to give them the shape of a plate. Phenol is a poison of general toxic action, it also belongs to highly hazardous substances of the second (GN 2.1.6.1338-033) hazard class. For more information on the toxic properties of phenol, see the Wikipedia website.
Also, it is necessary to understand that during the operation of the house, the phenolic glue will gradually evaporate, as a result, after about 30-35 years, the stone fibers will remain without an adhesive bond with each other, which will lead to the loss of the mineral wool slab of its original shape. The fibers will begin to settle, exposing sections of the outer wall and filling the ventilation gap. It will require a major overhaul of the facade, with the dismantling of the facade cladding and the remnants of insulation.

The thermal characteristics of the ceramic block Kerakam Caiman30 are such that the inclusion of thermal insulation in the design is not required. Thermal resistance of an external wall built from blocks Cayman30 and lined with slotted brick - 3.73 m2*S/W, which with a margin provides SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" for residential buildings in the city Novosibirsk.

Below is a thermotechnical calculation of an external wall made of expanded clay concrete block, 390 mm thick, insulated with a layer of extruded polystyrene foam 80 mm, and a wall made of heat-efficient ceramic block Caiman 30, made according to the method described in SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings".

Thermal engineering calculation was made for the city of Dmitrov, Moscow region.

The ability of a structure to retain heat is determined by such a physical parameter as the thermal resistance of the structure ( R, m 2 *S/W).

Let us determine the degree-day of the heating period, °С ∙ day/year, according to the formula (SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings") for the city Dmitrov.

GSOP = (t in - t out)z out,

where,
t in- the design temperature of the internal air of the building, ° С, taken in the calculation of the enclosing structures of the groups of buildings indicated in table 3 (SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings"): according to pos. 1 - by minimum values optimum temperature corresponding buildings in accordance with GOST 30494 (in the range 20 - 22 °С);
t from - average temperature outdoor air, °С during the cold period, for the city of Dmitrov meaning -3,1 °C;
z from- duration, days / year, of the heating period, adopted according to the set of rules for the period with an average daily outdoor temperature of not more than 8 ° C, for the city Dmitrov meaning 216 days.

GSOP \u003d (20- (-3.1)) * 216 \u003d 4,989.60 ° C * day.

The value of the required thermal resistance for the external walls of residential buildings is determined by the formula (SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings)

R tr 0 \u003d a * GSOP + b

where,
R tr 0- required thermal resistance;
a and b- coefficients, the values ​​of which should be taken according to table No. 3 of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" for the corresponding groups of buildings, for residential buildings the value a should be taken equal to 0.00035, the value b - 1,4

R tr 0 \u003d 0.00035 * 4 551.0 + 1.4 \u003d 3.1463 m 2 * C / W

The value of the required thermal resistance for the external walls of residential buildings in a number of Russian cities

The formula for calculating the conditional thermal resistance of the considered structure:

R0 = Σ δ n n + 0,158

Where,
Σ – symbol of summation of layers for multilayer structures;
δ - layer thickness in meters;
λ - coefficient of thermal conductivity of the layer material under the condition of operational humidity;
n- layer number (for multilayer structures);
0.158 is a correction factor, which can be taken as a constant for simplicity.

Formula for calculating the reduced thermal resistance.

R r 0 \u003d R 0 x r

Where,
r- coefficient of thermal engineering homogeneity of structures with inhomogeneous sections (joints, heat-conducting inclusions, porches, etc.)

according to standard STO 00044807-001-2006 according to Table No. 8, the value of the coefficient of thermal uniformity r for masonry from large-format hollow porous ceramic stones and gas silicate blocks should be taken equal to 0,98 .

At the same time, I draw your attention to the fact that this coefficient does not take into account the fact that

  1. we recommend laying with a warm masonry mortar (this significantly eliminates heterogeneity at the joints);
  2. as connections between the bearing wall and the front masonry, we use not metal, but basalt-plastic connections, which conduct heat literally 100 times less than steel connections (this significantly eliminates the inhomogeneities formed due to heat-conducting inclusions);
  3. window slopes and doorways, according to our project documentation they are additionally insulated with extruded polystyrene foam (which eliminates heterogeneity in places of window and door openings, vestibules).
From which we can conclude - when following the instructions of our working documentation the masonry uniformity coefficient tends to unity. But in the calculation of the reduced thermal resistance R r 0 we will still use the tabular value of 0.98.

R r 0 must be greater than or equal to R 0 required.

We determine the operating mode of the building in order to understand what thermal conductivity coefficient λ a or λ in taken when calculating the conditional thermal resistance.

The procedure for determining the operating mode is described in detail in SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" . Based on the specified normative document Let's follow the step by step instructions.

1st step. Let's define hmoisture content of the building region - Dmitrov using Appendix B of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings".


According to the city table Dmitrov located in zone 2 (normal climate). We accept the value 2 - normal climate.

2nd step. According to Table No. 1 of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" we determine the humidity regime in the room.

At the same time, I would like to draw your attention to heating season humidity in the room drops to 15-20%. During the heating season, air humidity must be raised to at least 35-40%. Humidity of 40-50% is considered comfortable for a person.
In order to raise the level of humidity, it is necessary to ventilate the room, you can use humidifiers, installation of an aquarium will help.


According to Table 1, the humidity regime in the room during the heating period at an air temperature of 12 to 24 degrees and a relative humidity of up to 50% - dry.

3rd step. According to Table No. 2 of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" we determine the operating conditions.

To do this, we find the intersection of the line with the value of the humidity regime in the room, in our case it is dry, with humidity column for city Dmitrov, as explained earlier, is the value normal.


Summary.
According to the methodology of SNiP "Thermal protection of buildings" in the calculation of conditional thermal resistance ( R0) should apply the value under operating conditions BUT, i.e. it is necessary to use the coefficient of thermal conductivity λ a.

Here you can see Thermal Conductivity Test Report for Ceramic BlocksKerakam Kaiman 30.
The value of the coefficient of thermal conductivity λ a You can find it at the end of the document.

Consider the laying of the outer wall, using ceramic blocks Kerakam Kaiman 30 and gas silicate blocks D500, lined with ceramic hollow bricks.

For ceramic block use option Kerakam Kaiman 30 total wall thickness without plaster layer 430mm(300mm Kerakam Caiman 30 ceramic block + 10mm technological gap filled with cement-perlite mortar + 120mm face masonry).

1 layer
2 layer(pos.2) - 300mm masonry wall using a block Kerakam Kaiman 30(the coefficient of thermal conductivity of the masonry in the operational state is A 0.094 W / m * C).
3 layer(pos.4) - 10mm light cement-perlite mixture between the laying of the ceramic block Kerakam Kaiman 30 and facing masonry (density 200 kg/m3, thermal conductivity coefficient at operating humidity less than 0.12 W/m*C).
4 layer

Pos. 3 - warm masonry mortar
pos. 6 - colored masonry mortar.

Consider the masonry of the outer wall, using expanded clay concrete blocks, insulated with a layer of extruded polystyrene foam and lined with ceramic hollow bricks.

For the option of using expanded clay concrete block, the total thickness of the wall without taking into account the plaster layer 605mm(390mm expanded clay concrete block + 5mm adhesive layer + 80mm extruded polystyrene foam layer + 10mm technological gap + 120mm face masonry).

1 layer(pos.1) - 20mm thermal insulation cement-perlite plaster (thermal conductivity coefficient 0.18 W / m * C).
2 layer(pos. 2) - 390 mm wall masonry using expanded clay concrete block (the thermal conductivity of the masonry in the operational state is 0.45 W / m * C).
3 layer(pos. 4) - 80mm extruded expanded polystyrene (thermal conductivity coefficient 0.030 W / m * C)

4 layer(pos.5) - 120mm masonry wall using slotted facing brick(the coefficient of thermal conductivity of the masonry in the operational state is 0.45 W / m * C.

* - the layer of facing bricks in the calculation of the thermal resistance of the structure is not taken into account, because in the technological gap between the extruded polystyrene foam and the facing brick, free air convection occurs.


We consider the conditional thermal resistance R 0 for the structures under consideration.

Kerakam Kaiman 30

R 0 Cayman30 \u003d 0.020 / 0.18 + 0.300 / 0.094 + 0.01 / 0.12 + 0.12 / 0.45 + 0.158 \u003d 3.8106 m 2 *S/W



R 0 expanded clay concrete \u003d 0.020 / 0.18 + 0.390 / 0.45 + 0.08 / 0.03 + 0.158 \u003d 3.8026 m 2 *S/W

We consider the reduced thermal resistance R r 0 of the structures under consideration.

The design of the external wall in which the block is used Kerakam Cayman30

R r 0 Cayman30 =3.8106 m 2 *C/W * 0.98 = 3.7344 m 2 *S/W

The design of the external wall in which the expanded clay concrete block is used

R r 0 expanded clay concrete\u003d 3.3179 m 2 * C / W * 0.98 \u003d 3.7266 m 2 *S/W

The reduced thermal resistance of the two structures under consideration is higher than the required thermal resistance for the city of Dmitrov (3.1463 m 2 * C / W), which means that both structures comply with the SNiP "Thermal Protection of Buildings" for the city of Dmitrov.

Absolutely everything is known in comparison. Making a choice in one direction or another, we will think three times and compare everything possible options. In construction, it’s the same, because you always have to make a choice. The fact is that the market provides us with a large number of building materials that have their own characteristics and characteristics. For the construction of houses, garages, baths or other buildings, many stop at lightweight concrete. Some prefer, others - gas silicate blocks. And if you put the question point-blank and decide whether expanded clay concrete blocks or gas silicate blocks, which is better?

Since everything can be learned by comparison, we will compare these two excellent materials to find out the answer to this question. We will analyze the technical characteristics of the materials, as well as dwell on their positive and negative sides.

Expanded clay concrete blocks technical characteristics

These blocks are made on the basis of expanded clay known to everyone, which is added to concrete mortar. The composition contains both expanded clay of a large fraction and expanded clay sand. Depending on the size of the filler, the strength of the blocks and their thermal insulation characteristics. Everyone knows that expanded clay is used as a heater. Accordingly, the properties of expanded clay blocks include a high rate of heat conservation.

Let's start with standard sizes expanded clay blocks. In fact, the sizes can be different, depending on the needs and goals. But the following values ​​​​are considered the standard:

  • 188×190×390 mm;
  • 188×90×390 mm.

The maximum allowable deviation from the standard is 10–12 mm. The first type of blocks - products for masonry walls, the second - for partitions. If we take into account the quality of the surface of the side face, then expanded clay concrete is divided into ordinary and front. Ordinary blocks are used to build a box that will be protected by trim. And the front ones are used for the construction of clean walls, without additional finishing.

Note! In one expanded clay concrete block, from 3 to 7 simple bricks will fit.

In addition, the products are available in full-bodied and hollow. Thanks to the voids, the block weighs even less, and its energy saving is much higher. But solid products are more reliable and heavy. They erect capital walls, on which there is a large load.

Additional Information


Characteristics of gas silicate blocks

The material also has a porous structure. In the production, a silicate mixture and aluminum powder are used. Due to the reaction between the components, a foam is obtained, which is processed in an autoclave. Due to this processing, the material becomes durable. The composition includes only environmentally friendly components, such as gypsum, simple sand and cement with water. Everything is mixed and filled with aluminum powder.

The dimensions of the gas silicate blocks may be different. It all depends on the manufacturer. On the shelves you can find the main dimensions: 600 × 100 × 300 mm; 250×400×600 mm; 600×200×300 mm; 500×200×300 mm. But the weight depends on the indicators of density and size. It is in the range from 5 to 40 kg.

Due to their structure, the blocks are quite easy to process. They can make strobes and cut into any shape. It is an efficient material used in construction.

Additional Information

  1. The density of gas silicate blocks is from D400 to D700, that is, from 350 to 900 kg / m 3.
  2. The strength of gas silicate blocks is from 10 to 50 kg / cm 2 (B0.75–B3.5 and higher).
  3. Weight - 5-40 kg / pc.
  4. Service life - from 50 years.
  5. Energy saving - 0.15-0.3 W / mS.
  6. Frost resistance - F25–F75.
  7. Fire safety - does not burn.
  8. Vapor permeability - 0.26–0.16 mg / m h Pa.

Now that you know the characteristics of both materials, you can compare them and choose the best one. Let's look at the positive and negative sides of the products.

Expanded clay blocks

Advantages:

  1. They have excellent thermal conductivity. Buildings will be warm.
  2. They have sound insulation properties, much better than gas silicate.
  3. They have a low cost. But the ratio price - quality at the highest level.
  4. It has a greater density and strength than gas silicate.
  5. High frost resistance, so the material lasts longer.
  6. Moisture resistant, it does not need to be looked after. The material is not afraid of weather conditions.
  7. Has a low specific gravity.
  8. Ecologicaly clean.
  9. Due to good vapor permeability, the walls will breathe.
  10. After construction does not shrink.

Flaws:

  1. Since the structure of the material is porous, the blocks themselves can be called fragile.
  2. If we take into account the same characteristics of products, then the thermal insulation properties of expanded clay concrete are worse.
  3. The material does not have clear and perfectly even shapes.

Otherwise, it is an excellent building material that has proven itself only from the best side.

gas silicate blocks

As always, let's start with the advantages of this material:

  1. Ideal dimensions, precision and not big weight. Work is done quickly and easily.
  2. It is possible to carry out laying not on a solution, but on a special glue.
  3. Excellent heat saving performance.
  4. Due to the size, weight, ridges, grips and grooves, it is comfortable to work with the material. It can be cut, sanded, grooved and transported without much effort.
  5. Since the structure of the material is porous, the walls will "breathe".
  6. Ecological purity. There are no toxins that can harm the body.

Note! Due to the low density and good thermal insulation properties of gas silicate, the weight of the wall structure can be reduced. For example, comparing a gas silicate wall and a brick wall, the first one will be 3 times lighter. And in comparison with expanded clay concrete - 1.7 times.

Disadvantages of gas silicate blocks:

  1. The material is fragile.
  2. It absorbs moisture very strongly, so it needs to be protected.
  3. It has low compressive strength.
  4. Frost resistance is lower.
  5. After erection, the material shrinks.
  6. High price.

If you visually look at the indicators of expanded clay concrete and gas silicate, then the number of points in the first and second groups immediately becomes noticeable. Expanded clay concrete for 10 positive sides has only 3 negative ones. And if we talk about gas silicate, then for 6 advantages there are as many as 6 minuses. The numbers speak for themselves. Still, a reasonable decision should remain with you.

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Construction is complex technological process, in which everything should be taken into account, from the layout of the future home to interior decoration rooms. It is necessary to draw up an estimate, as well as determine the materials. After pouring the foundation, there are always walls, and here the question arises, which blocks are better for building a house (price, technical indicators and dimensions).

Building walls from blocks

When choosing a material for construction, they first of all look at the technical characteristics of the raw materials, and not at the external attractiveness. Monolithic concrete elements are most often used in the construction of durable buildings. Types, characteristics of building blocks depend on the auxiliary components added to the solution during manufacture.

Exist various blocks for building a house. Which is better, because the price, characteristics and dimensions are different for everyone? To understand this issue, we will consider each type in detail.

At the moment, the following varieties are distinguished:

  • expanded clay concrete;
  • aerated concrete;
  • foam concrete;
  • cinder blocks.

The specific gravity of all options is less than 1800 kg / m³, which is very convenient when building walls, and the cost is quite acceptable even for budget buildings.

Expanded clay concrete

Such blocks are obtained by adding hollow balls of foamed and fired clay to concrete. They are much lighter than other options, and also have high heat and sound insulation performance. At the same time, you can safely drive nails into such a structure without fear of damaging the integrity of the blocks.

The pros and cons of ceramic blocks also require careful study. The positive aspects in the construction of houses include:

Note! When using such blocks, keep an eye on the material itself and where it was purchased. If the creation technology is violated, the density and geometric parameters become unstable.


When choosing expanded clay concrete structures, consider the negative aspects of the material:

  • you can not use a lightweight foundation;
  • installation of an external layer of thermal insulation is necessary to avoid the formation of cold bridges;
  • if you do not perform external finishing, the service life is reduced to two years;
  • can not be used for the foundation;
  • Larger sizes increase shipping costs.

You can buy various sizes blocks. There are options that correspond to ordinary brickwork (a 50x24.8x23.8 block has a mass of 25 kg, and is equal in size to 15 bricks). In width, you can find 23, 24 and 25 cm, and in length from 25 to 51, which is very convenient for building walls at home and planning material costs.

Aerated concrete

Almost 85% of the volume aerated concrete block It is made up of cells, so it is very light. The composition includes quartz sand, cement and lime, and the raw materials are diluted in ordinary water. The dimensions of the bubbles vary from 0.6 to 3 mm, they are evenly distributed.


Such material has positive aspects:

  • lightness, the standard unit weighs around 30 kg;
  • good thermal conductivity due to the structure, it retains heat for a long time in winter and cool in summer;
  • fire resistance, such material is able to resist fire for 3 hours;
  • frost resistance (can withstand up to 25 freezing cycles);
  • strength (up to 5 floors);
  • ease of processing;
  • environmental friendliness.
Note! It is necessary to use only a special solution.

To understand which aerated concrete for building a house better fit, take into account the following parameters:

  • the density differs (350, 400, 450, 500, 600 and 700) and there is a D marking;
  • length 60 or 62.5 cm;
  • width from 7.5 to 50 cm;
  • in height 20 or 25 cm;
  • density from 1.0 to 7.5 MPa;
  • frost resistance 15 - 50;
  • there is shrinkage up to 0.5 mm/m.

At the same time, elements 7.5 cm thick are used for wall insulation, if you want to build a utility room, 2 and 2.5 cm are enough. If you plan to use such material for load-bearing walls, then buy blocks with a thickness of at least 37.5 cm.

Related article:

. In the material, we will consider what aerated concrete is, its scope, advantages and disadvantages, as well as dimensions and average cost.

Foam concrete

Blocks of foam concrete, like aerated concrete, belong to the group of gas silicate. Foam concrete is divided by strength into 4 groups:

Table 1. Marking of foam concrete

NameDensity, kg per cubic meter mStrengthFrost resistance
D150-400Thermal insulation150 to 400Up to 400 does not vary by strength classNot
D500-900Structural and heat-insulating500 to 900From 13 kg per kV. cm up to 35Class F (up to 75)
1000 - 1200 Structural1000 to 1200From 50 to 90 kg per sq. cmClass F 15-50
1300 - 1600 Structural-drawnFrom 1300 to 1600Complies with GOSTComplies with GOST

At the same time, the dimensions of the gas block for building a house are also different depending on the marking. For example, D600 and 8000 have dimensions of 20x30x60 cm, there are D600 models corresponding to 10x30x60. The size is selected based on the purpose of construction.

Related article:

In the article, we will consider in detail the features of the building material, its advantages, scope, size and average cost.

cinder blocks

This kind of material appeared a very long time ago. Having a large weight, it is necessary to use special equipment in progress. Dimensions are standard 20x20x40 cm. The composition contains perlite, expanded clay, processed sawdust, gravel, crushed stone and other components, and the presence of slag is not necessary.

The advantages of this material include:

  • density (from 500 to 2000 kg/m³);
  • resistance to frost (withstand from 15 to 35 freezing);
  • thermal conductivity (from 0.3 to 0.65 W/m*⁰С).

Only blocks manufactured at the factory that meet all quality standards have such indicators. Since such material can be made at home, you can get to completely different characteristics.

By design, they are produced monolithic or with slots through and through. At the same time, the laying of such elements is much more difficult than bricks, since cinder blocks have irregular shape. And also it makes no sense to cover such material with plaster during finishing.

Thus, answering the question, what are the best blocks for building a house, price and quality - cinder blocks are unlikely to be in the top positions of the ratings.

Blocks for building a house: which are better, price and characteristics

An easy way to compare materials is to create a table with technical parameters.

Table 2. Average cost of blocks for building a house

MaterialA photoStrength (kg/cm²)Density (kg/m³)Thermal conductivity (W/m*S)Frost resistance in cyclesAverage cost, rub.
aerated concrete20-50 300-900 0,08-0,2 25 3800
foam concrete15-50 300-900 0,14-0,29 30 3550
Arbolit20-50 600-900 0,12-0,25 35 4600
Expanded clay50-250 500-1800 0,16-0,85 35 3700
Ceramics35-50 750-800 0,14-0,29 35 4450
cinder block35-100 500-1000 0,25-0,50 20 2800

The choice of material will primarily be based on the purpose of use. For example, aerated concrete or foam blocks are more often used as wall blocks for exterior walls. To make it easier to understand and choose, watch the video on the topic.

August 8, 2017

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The growing number of developers and the desire to find an economical, strong, durable and warm material for building a house has led to an increase in the popularity of lightweight concrete blocks. Along with the gas block and foam block, expanded clay concrete blocks have become widely used, which have excellent thermal insulation qualities, are safe, light and relatively inexpensive. Many private builders call this material one of best solutions for the construction of a country house or cottage. Is it really? Dealing with the issue right choice expanded clay concrete, the pros and cons of the material, its types and manufacturers.

No. 1. How is claydite concrete made

Expanded clay concrete began to be made in the middle of the last century, then they safely forgot about it, and today it is experiencing new era popularity. The composition of the material, like any lightweight concrete block, includes cement, water and sand, and used as a filler expanded clay- granules of different sizes, obtained by firing low-melting grades of clay. Expanded clay granules are light due to the large number of pores inside, but strong, as they have a strong burnt shell. For the production of expanded clay concrete, granules with a size of 5-40 mm are used. Blocks can be solid or hollow. Moreover, claydite concrete solution can be used for monolithic construction of the walls of the house.

great importance for performance characteristics block has a ratio of expanded clay and cement. The more expanded clay, the lighter, warmer and more expensive the block will be. The quality of cement determines the strength grade of the material. Due to the expanded clay filler, the material acquires unique thermal insulation properties, for which modern developers are so fond of it.

Unscrupulous manufacturers add adhesive additives to the mixture to increase the strength of the material, but environmental safety this affects negatively. Blocks in production are formed under the influence vibration, dried in special chambers, where heating is carried out by streams of hot air or infrared rays.

Today private and country houses, cottages, sheds, garages, fences, it is used for the monolithic construction of buildings.

No. 2. Expanded clay blocks: pros and cons

The composition of expanded clay concrete determines its numerous positive aspects, which ensure the popularity of the material. Among the main advantages of expanded clay concrete blocks:

Expanded clay concrete blocks also have disadvantages:

Number 3. Types of expanded clay concrete blocks for their intended purpose

Based on the presence or absence of voids, expanded clay concrete blocks can be divided into two fundamentally different groups:

  • corpulent;
  • hollow.

solid blocks is a structural material high density and relatively heavy. Load-bearing and non-bearing walls are erected from it, even multi-storey buildings can be built.

Hollow Blocks thanks to the holes inside, they are distinguished by improved thermal insulation qualities, suitable for the construction of partitions and bearing walls one-story buildings.

No. 4. The size of expanded clay concrete blocks

By size, expanded clay concrete blocks are usually divided into:

  • wall;
  • partition walls.

It is clear that the former are used for laying exterior walls. They must have certain indicators of strength and density, about which will be discussed farther. They can be 288*138*138, 288*288*138, 290*190*188, 390*190*188, 190*190*188, 90*190*188 mm in size. By fullness they are full-bodied and hollow.

Partition blocks, as the name suggests, are used for masonry internal partitions. They have less weight, which reduces the load on the foundation. In size, as a rule, partition blocks are produced 590*90*188, 390*90*188, 190*90*188 mm.

Some companies produce blocks that do not match the above dimensions- they are carried out not according to GOST, but according to TU, which the manufacturer himself can determine for himself. As a rule, large-format blocks are produced according to specifications.

It is worth noting separately facing blocks which are produced by some companies. They have dimensions of 600 * 300 * 400 mm, are produced by adding dyes to the solution and have a relief decorative surface.

No. 5. Strength grade of expanded clay concrete blocks

When choosing expanded clay concrete for building a house, garage, partitions, utility rooms and other buildings, it is necessary to take into account a lot of performance indicators of the material: strength, density, frost resistance and thermal conductivity. All of them are interconnected. Let's start with strength.

strength called the ability of a material to withstand loads and resist destruction. Usually, the strength of expanded clay concrete is denoted by the letter M and the number following it. from 25 to 100, which means how many kilograms each cm 2 of the surface of the block can withstand. The M25 block can withstand 25 kg / cm 2, and the M100 - 100 kg / cm 2. In private construction, as a rule, blocks with a strength higher than M100 are not used: blocks M75-M100 are used for the construction of walls, and M35-M50 for partitions. In industrial and high-rise construction, blocks of greater strength can be used.

It is worth noting that the M75 block can withstand both 65 kg / cm 2, as well as 75 or 80 kg / cm 2. Despite the inaccuracies, this method of classifying expanded clay concrete still continues to be used. A much more accurate version is strength classes, which are marked with the letter B. This is strength with guaranteed security. A numerical indicator from 2.5 to 40: the higher it is, the more durable the block will be. M100, for example, corresponds to B7.5.

No. 6. Density of expanded clay concrete

Another important indicator is density. The lower the density, the higher the thermal insulation qualities. On the other hand, the higher the density, the higher the strength and resistance to moisture. The block density is marked with the letter D followed by a coefficient from 350 to 1800. The coefficient is equal to the density, expressed in kg / m 3.

The scope of use of the material depends on the density:

No. 7. Frost resistance and thermal conductivity of expanded clay concrete

Frost resistance called the ability of a material to withstand sudden changes in temperature. This indicator is determined by the number of shock freezing and thawing, marked with the letter F. For expanded clay concrete, this indicator can vary from 25 to 300, but in private construction, the material is used F15-F100. For the northern regions, it is better to take material with frost resistance F50-F75. Blocks with low frost resistance are suitable only for interior work.

Thermal conductivity material directly depends on the density. For the D1000 block, it is 0.33-0.41, D1400 - 0.56-0.65, etc. (see table). Depending on which block is chosen for construction and in which region the house will be located, they carry out calculation of the thickness of expanded clay concrete and analyze the need to use a heater:

No. 8. What to look for when choosing?

A visual inspection can tell a lot about the quality of the material. Pay attention, first of all, to such moments:

No. 9. The best manufacturers of expanded clay concrete

Today there are a lot of factories engaged in the production of such a promising building material, and there is a big risk of stumbling upon defective goods produced in inappropriate conditions. A normal manufacturer is not afraid to show the production process and invite the buyer to the factory, can provide all the necessary quality certificates and test results. Let us dwell on the largest manufacturers of expanded clay concrete blocks:

No. 10. DIY concrete blocks

Independent production of expanded clay concrete can significantly reduce the cost of building a house. As a rule, small batches of material are made with their own hands for the construction of simple small buildings, otherwise the laboriousness of the work will simply be unjustified.

In addition to the already known ingredients, you will need special equipment, you can rent it. A concrete mixer with a volume of at least 130 liters will be required. You will also need a vibrating machine, it already has molding containers, so you don’t have to bother with their production. Otherwise, you will have to make them out of metal or wood.

The process of making expanded clay concrete blocks with your own hands looks like this:

  • mixing components in a concrete mixer. First, 3 parts of sand and 1 part of cement are mixed, then 1-1.2 parts of water are added, and then another 6 parts of expanded clay. Everything is thoroughly mixed, it may be necessary to add a small amount of water if the mixture is too dry. Some add a little liquid soap to provide better viscosity;
  • mixture in portions put into mold machine and include vibration, excess solution is removed;
  • plate with ready block rises, the blanks are dried for 2 days, then the steel plates are removed;
  • without using a machine, the process is somewhat more complicated and longer. It will be necessary to pour the solution into pre-prepared and lubricated forms and carefully tamp. It is better to use blocks no earlier than 28 days later.

If there is no confidence in own forces, it is better to buy ready-made material with well-known performance characteristics. Subject to the production technology (famous manufacturers can be trusted) and the technology of masonry, a house made of expanded clay concrete will stand for a very long time.


Following:

Combining strength and energy saving in one wall material is the cherished goal of every developer.

Unfortunately these two physical properties directly opposite, so in practice the best option is a compromise between them.

One of good examples The union of reliability and warmth is a house made of expanded clay concrete. This building retains heat better than a traditional one. solid brick. In terms of load resistance, the expanded clay block is superior to brittle gas and foam concrete.

In Europe, where every calorie of heat is saved, given material already won a place of honor.

It will not hurt us to get to know the features of building from expanded clay concrete blocks in order to make an informed choice from the wall materials offered on the market.

Features of expanded clay concrete blocks, their advantages and disadvantages

Expanded clay concrete is a three-component material consisting of cement, quartz sand and expanded clay gravel(fired and foamed clay). In terms of environmental friendliness, it is impeccable, since no chemicals are used in its production.

Thanks to lightweight expanded clay granules, the weight of the material is reduced, and its energy-saving ability is increased. Due to cement, the structural lattice of expanded clay concrete blocks is strong and stable. An additional reduction in weight is achieved due to the voids created during the molding of the blocks. They are used to reinforce masonry with reinforcement or to install additional connections in frame houses.

Before making a purchase and starting construction, it is necessary to comprehensively evaluate.

In addition to those already mentioned, their advantages include:

  • moisture resistance;
  • resistance to fire, rodents and insects;
  • durability;
  • low thermal conductivity (0.14 to 0.66 W/mK);
  • frost resistance (for heat-insulating blocks 15-50 cycles; for structural and heat-insulating blocks - 100, for structural blocks up to 200);
  • good vapor permeability (from 3 to 9 mg/m h Pa);
  • high speed and low labor intensity of laying (one bricklayer lays up to 3 m3 of blocks per shift);
  • saving mortar (in comparison with brickwork reaches 50%);
  • reliable fixation of fasteners during the installation of external and internal finishes;
  • low cost.

We also note that the construction of a house from expanded clay concrete blocks has its drawbacks:

  • it is impossible to save on the foundation, since expanded clay concrete walls are heavier than foam and gas-block ones;
  • cold bridges through the masonry seams (walls must be insulated);
  • the house is not recommended to be left without an external protective finish for more than 2 seasons (the strength of the walls decreases).

Construction features

Everyone who wants to build a house from expanded clay blocks should know the intricacies of the technology of such masonry.

Firstly , you need to decide on the type of material used. For low-rise construction, structural and heat-insulating blocks are optimal (density from 700 to 1200 kg / m3). Lighter ones are suitable only for insulation, while heavier (structural) ones are used in multi-storey construction.

Secondly , correctly choose the size of the blocks. In order for the costs of insulation of expanded clay walls to be minimal, their thickness must be at least 40 cm (for middle lane Russia). The most popular size used for load-bearing walls is 190x188x390mm. For self-supporting partitions, blocks with a thickness of 90-120 mm are purchased.

Thirdly , keep in mind that the foundation for the walls must be powerful and deep enough. The depth of the trench is chosen based on local soil conditions, but they do not dig it smaller than 1.0 -1.2 meters. A sandy cushion compacted with a rammer (thickness 20 cm), under the foundation is required. In addition, you will have to fill in a reinforced concrete belt (15-20 cm), making a frame for it from 4-6 reinforcing bars with a diameter of 16-20 mm. In case of uneven ground settlement, it will protect the foundation and walls from cracks.

Fourth , it is economically more profitable when the insulation and finishing of the house from expanded clay blocks are performed simultaneously. Therefore, you should decide in advance on the cladding material (siding, face brick, facade plaster, blockhouse) and insulation (basalt or ecowool).

The laying of expanded clay blocks does not fundamentally differ from the technology of erecting walls from block aerated concrete. Here, the seams are also dressed and the deviation of the wall surface from the vertical is controlled (using a plumb line and level). Horizontal evenness is achieved by installing a mooring cord at the corners, marking the line of the row.

When building from expanded clay concrete blocks, there is one important nuance - use of jute insulation tape. It is laid in the middle of the masonry, thereby cutting off access to the cold through the solution inside the premises.

You can save money by refusing such a solution, but in this case, heat will leave the house through thick masonry seams (12-15 mm).

Another significant point of technology is masonry reinforcement.. It should be done after 3-4 rows, laying two reinforcement bars with a diameter of 12-14 mm into special grooves on the block.

Despite the fact that expanded clay concrete is stronger than aerated concrete, for the installation of floor panels, it will also have to make a monolithic reinforced belt for it. It will distribute the load from the plates and prevent them from pushing through certain sections of the walls. Outside, cold reinforced concrete must be insulated with foam inserts 5 cm thick.

As we have already said, the laying of expanded clay concrete stone is not too complicated, so not only a professional builder, but also any neat beginner, if desired, will be able to complete it. The main condition for quality independent work- careful study of the orders (block layout schemes) and the use of control tools - plumb, level and mooring line.

Since the sizes of the blocks are quite large, it is not difficult to lay out an even row of them. The holes made in them increase the accuracy of splitting with a hammer when it is necessary to make a “half” or “three-four” for dressing seams.

Blocks of expanded clay concrete are well drilled, perfectly hold fasteners and plaster. Therefore, the installation of a ventilated facade on them, finishing with decorative mortar, drywall and other sheet materials presents no particular difficulty.

Having ordered a detailed project of such a house, most home craftsmen will be able to drive out the masonry with their own hands.

Speaking about the reviews of people living in buildings made of expanded clay blocks, it should be noted that most of them are positive. Most often, the owners note the good heat-saving qualities of the material, its strength and comfortable microclimate in the premises (subject to well-executed masonry and decoration).

Counting the number of blocks

In order to accurately determine the volume of purchases, you need to make a preliminary calculation of expanded clay concrete blocks for the house. To do this, sum up the length of all external walls and separately calculate the length of the internal partitions of the building.

The results obtained are multiplied by the height and thickness of the walls and partitions. Then the total volume of masonry is divided by the volume of one standard block - 0.014 m3. So get the amount of material in pieces. As a working margin, 20% is added to the final figure, or when calculating, the volumes of window and door openings are simply not subtracted from it.

Estimated construction cost

It is made up of several components:

  • The cost of work;
  • Rebar prices;
  • The cost of the solution;
  • Block prices;
  • Delivery costs to the object.

With self-laying, the first price factor is zero. If you order a team, then you will have to pay about 1200 rubles / m3 for the work. Approximately the same is the cost of building walls of aerated concrete.

For 1 m3 of masonry, 65 hollow blocks will be required, average cost 40 rubles for 1 piece. Considering the price of rebar, cement, sand and their delivery, we get that the minimum cost of building a wall from expanded clay blocks is about 2900-3100 rubles / m3 (without work).

In order to compare this figure with other types of masonry, let's say that Brick wall costs twice as much on average. The difference with aerated concrete masonry is not so great. However, it also exceeds the cost of expanded clay by 10-15%.

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