Comparison between clay brick and AAC block in Bangladesh
For efficient and sustainable construction, selecting the right materials is crucial for both producers and users. Clay bricks and AAC (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) blocks are two popular options,
each with distinct features, costs, and benefits. Clay bricks, one of the oldest building materials, are made from natural clay and baked in kilns. They are strong, durable, and widely used in traditional
construction.
In contrast, AAC blocks are made from a blend of sand, cement, lime, water and aluminum powder. Combining lightness, modern aesthetics, and sustainability, they came as a contemporary replacement for traditional
materials. We will compare the two to help you make an informed choice for your construction projects. Call us at +8801841119091 for details!
AAC blocks (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete Blocks) are crafted from a perfect blend of sand, cement, lime, water, and a small amount of
aluminum powder that creates tiny air pockets. The mixture is poured into molds and steam-cured at high pressure, resulting in blocks that are not only durable and lightweight but also energy-efficient and
eco-friendly.
First developed in the 1920s in Sweden
Made from natural and non-toxic materials
Excellent thermal insulation (5–8 °C)
60% lighter than traditional bricks
Can withstand extremely high temperatures/fire for up to 4-5 hours.
Energy-efficient from production to use.
What are clay bricks?
A red brick is a solid building block made from natural clay that is shaped and baked at high temperatures. It has been used for centuries in construction because it is strong, durable, and affordable at the same
time. While reliable, they are heavy, require more labor to use, and are less environmentally friendly.
Hazards of clay brick:
Topsoil loss – Clay mining heavily destroys fertile agricultural land.
Air pollution – Emit CO₂, CO, SO₂, NO₂, NO,₃, and dust particles during production.
Impact on climate – A major source of greenhouse gases and black carbon.
Respiratory diseases – Dust and smoke trigger asthma, bronchitis, and lung issues.
Toxic exposure – Heavy metals from fuels contaminate air and soil.
Poor thermal insulation – Red brick increases indoor heat and energy requirement for cooling.
Heavy structural load – This increases the structural load, leading to higher construction costs.
Key differences between red bricks and AAC blocks
In Bangladesh, choosing between red bricks and AAC (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) blocks is crucial for construction projects. Understanding these key differences in
weight, insulation, cost, and environmental impact helps builders make informed decisions for sustainable and cost-effective construction. Here are the differences:
Parameter
Red bricks
AAC blocks
Composition
Made from clay
Made from sand, cement, lime, gypsum and aluminum
Weight (Density)
Heavy, 1950 kg/m³
Lightweight, 550–650 kg/m³
Compressive Strength
4–7.5 N/mm², ideal for heavy structures.
3–4.5 N/mm², suitable for most buildings.
Thermal Insulation
Poor, 0.81 W/m·K, higher cooling costs.
Excellent, 0.24 W/m·K, saves ~30% on energy.
Fire Resistance
2 hours.
4–6 hours, depending on thickness.
Size
Small, 240 x 115 x 70 mm, more joints.
Large, 600 x 200 x 75–300 mm(easy to customise as preferred)
Mortar Joints
8–12mm
3–5mm
Construction Speed
Slower, requires 2 laborers for a 10x10 ft wall.
3 - 3.5 times faster, 1 laborer for the same wall.
Cost
Cheaper upfront, But increases the cost of structural load balance; Need more cement, mortar, and labor.
High clay mining, high-energy kilns, and carbon emissions.
Zero clay mining, Low carbon emission, less energy, and eco-friendly.
Durability
Lasts 60–80 years, moisture-prone.
Lasts up to 100 years, resists moisture and pests.
Ease of Use
Harder to cut or shape, less flexible.
Easily cut, nailed, and drilled, versatile.
Look
Traditional
Modern chic
Clay brick and AAC block: Which one is better for Bangladesh?
In Bangladesh, Traditional bricks have been used for over a thousand years, but their production has caused significant damage to the country’s agricultural land.
In 2024, the government officially issued a gazette to ban the establishment of new clay brick projects in the country.
Moreover, to promote sustainable construction, they have declared VAT-free sales on AAC blocks. In 2025, the PWD(Public Works Department) assured the AAC use in governmental infrastructure, which is 10% by
2025-26, 25% by 2026-27, 50% by 2027-28, and 100% by 2031-32.
Other key benefits of AAC blocks:
Its lightweight nature is perfect for high-rise buildings or earthquake-prone areas.
Excellent thermal insulation to about 5-8 degrees Celsius, a blessing for the hot climate in Bangladesh.
Saves energy for the producer, the constructor, and the residents.
For eco-conscious builders, AAC blocks are the greener choice.
Significantly cost-effective.
Why choose AAC blocks?
AAC blocks have come a long way since their invention. These are now part of smart construction technologies and are used in prefabricated and modular buildings
around the world. As more countries focus on eco-friendly construction, AAC blocks will continue to grow in demand.
Research is also ongoing to improve AAC quality even more. Manufacturers are testing new raw materials, recycling techniques, and faster curing processes. Some even use robots for AAC block cutting and handling.
Conclusion
Clay bricks and AAC blocks both have strengths. Red bricks offer durability but are heavy, trap heat, and are less eco-friendly. On the contrary, AAC blocks are lightweight, save energy, and speed up construction.
Quality AAC blocks aren’t made by chance—they require the right machines.
Since 2011, has been delivering innovative and reliable construction solutions nationwide. As the exclusive partner of DONGYUE AAC block machines in Bangladesh, they bring world-class technology to
local builders. Contact us now for a free quote.
AAC blocks offer better thermal (0.24 W/m·K) and sound insulation (45 dB for 200 mm). Clay bricks have poorer insulation (0.81 W/m·K, 50 dB for 230 mm).
AAC blocks are more eco-friendly, using fly ash (a waste product) and less energy. Clay brick production involves clay mining and high-energy kilns, causing environmental harm.
AAC blocks cost more upfront but save on cement, mortar, labor, and energy. Clay bricks are cheaper initially but have higher overall costs.
Both are durable, but AAC blocks resist fire (4–6 hours), pests, and moisture better. Clay bricks last 60–80 years, AAC up to 100 years.
Yes, but AAC blocks are better for Bangladesh’s hot, humid climate due to superior insulation, keeping homes cooler. Clay bricks absorb more heat, increasing cooling costs.
