Fly ash bricks and red bricks are the two most commonly used building materials that find their application in almost every construction project. But what exactly is the difference between the two, and what are the things that you need to consider to select the best type of bricks for your project? This article comprehensively compares fly ash bricks against red bricks and helps you make the right choice.
Difference Between Fly Ash Bricks and Red Bricks
When differentiating between fly ash bricks and red bricks, there are various factors that you need to consider.
Material
Red bricks, as the name suggests, are made of clay and are usually reddish-brown in colour. They are produced by moulding clay and baking it at high temperatures in a kiln. Fly ash bricks, on the other hand, are made from a combination of fly ash, cement, sand, and water. These bricks are usually greyish-white in colour and have a smooth finish.
Strength
When it comes to durability, fly ash bricks have an edge over red bricks. Fly ash bricks have a higher compressive strength compared to red bricks, which means they can withstand more pressure and weight. Moreover, fly ash bricks have better resistance to moisture, chemicals, and weathering, making them more durable in the long run.
Cost
The cost of fly ash bricks is generally lower than that of red bricks. This is because, fly ash is a waste material from thermal plants, and is readily available at cheap prices, which reduces the production cost of fly ash bricks. On the other hand, red bricks are made from clay, which requires more energy and resources to manufacture, making them more expensive.
Area Coverage
Fly ash bricks are larger than red bricks, which means they can cover a larger area with fewer bricks. Furthermore, fly ash bricks have better dimensional accuracy, which means they can be laid more quickly and efficiently, reducing construction time and cost.
Surface Finish
Fly Ash Bricks have a smooth and uniform surface finish, which results in a cleaner and more polished look, making Fly Ash Bricks an excellent choice for buildings with a modern or contemporary design.
Red Bricks, on the other hand, have a rough and uneven surface finish due to the natural texture of clay. While this may not be ideal for modern buildings, it can be an advantage for projects where a traditional and rustic appearance is desirable.
Insulation Properties
Fly ash bricks have better insulation properties than red bricks. The thermal conductivity of fly ash bricks is lower than that of red bricks, which means they are better at retaining heat. This makes fly ash bricks an excellent choice for buildings located in areas with extreme temperatures, such as India.
Environmental Impact
Red brick production involves the burning of clay at high temperatures, which results in the emission of greenhouse gases, whereas, fly ash bricks are made from fly ash, which is a byproduct of thermal power plants. Using this fly ash to make bricks, reduces the amount of waste deposited in landfills, reducing the overall environmental impact.
Which is Easier to Install? Fly Ash Bricks or Red Bricks
Fly ash bricks are lighter and larger in size than red bricks, which makes them easy to transport and install, resulting in a faster construction process. In contrast, red bricks need more skill and attention to detail to get a clean and uniform installation.
Additionally, fly ash bricks require less material for installation, and are generally laid using a thin layer of cement mortar, while red bricks require a thicker layer of sand-cement mortar. This is because red bricks are more porous and absorbent than fly ash bricks, which can cause them to crumble if they are not properly supported.
Things to Consider When Buying Bricks for Your Project
When buying bricks for your project, it is important to carefully evaluate your client’s requirements before making a choice.
Intended Usage
The intended use of bricks plays an important part in making the right choice. While fly ash bricks are preferable for the outer structuring of the project, red bricks are generally preferable for certain interior elements, such as making a fireplace.
Geographical Factor
While fly ash bricks provide insulation against heat, red bricks absorb the heat readily. As a result, fly ash bricks are preferable for hot regions, while red bricks are preferable for colder regions.
Cost of Project
Fly ash bricks are generally cheaper than red bricks. Apart from that, fly ash bricks eliminate the need for further finishing operations like plaster, to achieve a smooth surface, thereby reducing the overall cost of the project. However, red bricks will be economical if a rustic appearance is desirable.
Final Thoughts
Although fly ash bricks and red bricks are used for similar applications, there are various differences between them. Therefore, it is important to evaluate your requirement and select the right type of brick that suits your project. L&T-SuFin is the leading marketplace in India that provides a wide variety of fly ash bricks and red bricks to choose from. You can select different bricks based on the required dimensions and specifications.