Posted on

Here at Al Manaratain, we’re big fans of using lightweight building blocks in construction projects. Made using a light, expanded clay aggregate known as “LECA”, Al Manaratain’s lightweight blocks are hard-wearing, durable, and versatile. Manufactured by heating clay in a kiln at 1100-1200 degrees celsius, our Leca blocks feature thousands of internal air cavities that give them many advantages over traditional building materials.

Perfectly suited for use in both external and internal building applications, our lightweight blocks are a cost-effective option for many construction projects including inner and dividing walls, stiffening walls, firewalls, and acoustic walls. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at just a few of the reasons why they’re such cost-effective concrete products.

Lower Building Costs

Perhaps the most obvious benefit of using Al Manaratain lightweight blocks is that there will be a reduced load on a building’s frame and foundations. A lower static load allows for structures to be designed in a more economical way, thereby reducing the cost.

Due to their low density, lightweight blocks (particularly those made with LECA) are much lighter than other building materials. This makes them easier to handle, fix and apply which in turn reduces labour costs. With a thermal dilatation 30% lower than that of normal concrete, LECA blocks are a convenient choice for making the building of all types of walls more cost-efficient.

Increased Thermal Insulation = Lower Energy Costs

With a calorific capacity that is twice that of cellular concrete, lightweight building blocks at Al Manaratain have far higher thermal insulation properties than other concrete products. As a result, less money needs to be spent on energy to provide heating and thermal comfort for the construction.

Great Acoustic Quality = Lower Soundproofing costs

Lightweight blocks have exceptional acoustic insulation properties. In fact, the lightweight blocks that we make at Al Manaratain provide double the amount of sound absorption than normal concrete walls. Depending on the frequency and structure of the build, they can absorb up to 50% of noise-making them perfectly suited to the likes of sports centres, theatres, and swimming pools. With the lightweight blocks doing most of the work, little needs to be spent on further soundproofing costs allowing for more money to be saved.

Durable & Low Maintenance

Lightweight building blocks provide a high level of resistance to moisture and heat transmission, making them more durable than many other concrete products. This means that they will last a number of years without needing to spend lots of money on maintenance fees and repairs.

Al Manratain LECA blocks also benefit from having a European standard EN 13501-1 Euroclass A1 rating meaning that they are non-combustible and will not contribute to a fire. A 15cm wall can withstand fire for over 3 hours whilst a 20cm one can withstand one for a minimum of 6 hours.

If you’re looking to complete a construction project with minimum costs, you can see how light concrete blocks are a cost-effective option. To learn more about the LECA technology we use, have a read of our previous article, ‘What Are Lightweight Blocks & What Are They Used For?‘. If there’s anything else you’d like to know or if you’d like to speak with somebody, please don’t hesitate to contact us.