What Are Lightweight Blocks & What Are They Used For?
There are many materials that can be used in the construction of exterior walls, including concrete, brick and wood. However, in recent years Light Weight Blocks have become a popular choice for a number of reasons. Hard-wearing, robust and durable, Al Manaratain lightweight blocks are made using LECA® Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate, a material with impressive bearing capacity and thermal insulation.
How Does Al Manaratain Use LECA®?
Lightweight blocks made using the innovative LECA® material are produced by mixing the clay aggregate with cement, sand and water, heated in a rotary kiln at a temperature of between 1100°C and 1200°C. When heated in this way, the materials increase significantly in volume due to expansion, creating prefabricated blocks that can be used in a wide variety of construction applications.
Aside from prefabricated blocks, LECA® can also be used as the raw material for wall panels, lightweight bricks, floor tiles and pavement tiles. Lightweight concrete is specified by many architects due to its cost-effectiveness and environmental efficiency. Lightweight blocks made using LECA® Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate are perfect for the construction of basement walls, floors, internal partitions and ceilings.
What Are The Benefits Of Using LECA®?
Due to their construction, which features thousands of internal air cavities, LECA®blocks offer many advantages over more traditional building materials. The low density of LECA® makes the blocks extremely lightweight, which significantly lowers the cost of building and makes the application much easier. The internal structure of the blocks ensures increased thermal and acoustic insulation, lowering energy and soundproofing costs in the process.
LECA® is also classified under the European standard EN 13501-1 Euroclass A1 rating, which means it is a non-combustible material that will make no contribution to fire. Lightweight concrete blocks also provide a high level of moisture resistance, increased durability and lower heat transmission, making them an ideal choice for both interior and exterior walls.
What Are Al Manaratin Lightweight Blocks Used For?
As previously mentioned, Al Manaratain lightweight blocks are useful for many internal and external building applications. Due to their heat and moisture resistance, thermal and sound insulation, and top-class fire rating, they are frequently used in the construction of exterior walls in place of regular concrete blocks or bricks. However, as they are lightweight and easy to handle, they can also be used for interior walls, floors, partitions and ceilings.