What are compressed earth blocks and how does it differ from bricks? How strong are compressed earth blocks? What are the advantages and disadvantages that you can get from both materials? How long will a brick wall last? These are some of the questions that we will discuss in this article. Read the rest of the article below for useful tips that can help you decide which material you should use for your home construction.<\/p>\n\n\n
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Compressed Earth Blocks Vs. Bricks<\/h2>\n
Compressed earth blocks differ from bricks in their composition and production. Bricks are made from clay and shale while compressed earth blocks are made from a mixture of non-plant soil, fine particles, and cement or lime. Bricks are formed, dried, and fired into a kiln until they harden. On the other hand, compressed air blocks are compressed and air-dried.<\/strong><\/p>\n Compressed earth blocks or CEB is a mixture of non-plant soil that consists of sand, gravel, and fine particles like clay and silt and aggregate binders like cement or lime. A brick press is used to compress the brick. The blocks are a manufactured construction material that increases the performance, strength, and durability of traditional earthen structures.<\/strong> Compressed earth block is an environment-friendly material that can build a two-story house as long as the compression and earth used are appropriate.<\/p>\n Structures made with compressed earth blocks can last for hundreds of years. They are ancient building materials and techniques so there is no question that such structures are durable. Using modern techniques, compressed earth blocks have become more effective and durable than ever. Check out the advantages that you can get from compressed earth blocks below.<\/p>\n Unlike plywood, fiberboard, and other modern building materials, compressed earth blocks are a renewable abundant resource and their production does not need the use of dangerous and toxic chemicals.<\/p>\n Thermal mass plays a vital role when it comes to energy saving. This is the cooling and heating of the walls themselves, or also called passive heating and cooling. Using compressed earth blocks for building walls will absorb heat and release it evenly. This means that you will require less energy to heat and cool your home when you use CSEB for your walls.<\/p>\n Compressed earth blocks are also affordable. The compression machines used to produce the blocks can be operated or powered by hand. The earth is readily available and there is no additional to import building materials. Moreover, it does not need a lot of energy to produce, unlike brick or concrete. You can also check out this article that we have written that discusses what hydrocal is<\/a>. It is a material with the same properties as plaster of Paris which can be used to patch up holes and cracks on walls. You can check out the article for an in-depth discussion about the topic.<\/p>\n Using compressed earth blocks reduces reliance on forest-based materials<\/a>. It does not need the use of wood for construction.<\/p>\n Compressed earth blocks are from local earth. Meaning, no fossil fuels are used to transport building materials.<\/p>\n Another advantage that you can get from compressed earth blocks is that they are insect-resistant. This will reduce the need for chemical pesticides and you can save money hiring pest control specialists to eliminate insects that seem to invade your home.<\/p>\n Like every other building material, there are also some disadvantages to compressed earth blocks. Below are some of them.<\/p>\n Bricks are rigid blocks that are rectangular. They are used to construct many structures. Common house bricks are made from shale and clay. The color usually depends on the kind of clay mix that is used, kiln settings, firing temperatures, and any other additives (coke, coal, sawdust) used.<\/strong> Bricks are easy to obtain and are a durable finish that can be used to attain many styles to a fa\u00e7ade.<\/p>\n Homes built from bricks are stronger and provide better insulation. They also gave more thermal mass which means that indoor temperatures stay better regulated. Below are some of the advantages that you can get from using bricks.<\/p>\n \u00a0Bricks do not require paint or other treatments to preserve their durability and aesthetics. They can remain reliable, string, and maintenance-free even after fifty years. This will save you time and money for the maintenance of your home as compared to lightweight materials.<\/p>\n Bricks combine perfectly with various building designs to provide natural sources of energy. This means energy-efficient warmth during the winter and coolness during the summer season. The thermal insulating and natural density qualities of clay moderates building temperature and reduce energy consumption. You can enjoy year-round comfort without spending a lot of money.<\/p>\n Bricks are ideal for their creative design and colors. The colors vary from rich chocolate to vintage red, golden light sand, creamy almond, to shiny metallic and natural earthy tones. They are perfect for any setting and can provide a stylish look into your house.\u00a0<\/p>\n Another advantage that you can get from bricks is that it is weatherproof and can withstand the test of time even in harsh environments. It is cost-effective and you do not have to worry about sealing, painting, and other high-cost finishes for maintenance.<\/p>\n Bricks are made from organic minerals found locally and their long-lasting life cycle provides ongoing health and environmental benefits. They are reusable, durable, free from contaminants, and resistant to fire and pests. You can also check out this article that discusses how to make homemade plaster<\/a>. We have shared different methods that you can follow. It is a good and ideal DIY project that you can use to seal small cracks on your walls.<\/p>\n Bricks also have their disadvantages when it comes to construction. Check out some of these disadvantages below.<\/p>\n Compressed earth blocks are made using manual press and compressive strength is in a range of 2 to 3 MPa. Higher strengths can also be achieved with the use of hydraulic presses and higher cement contents.<\/p>\n Compressed earth blocks are durable, waterproof, fireproof, and sustainable which makes them last for many years.<\/strong> Some structures that are still standing are over a century old.<\/p>\n Compressed earth blocks are made from soil that is 15 to 40 percent non-expansive clay, 25 to 40 percent silt powder, and 40 to 70 percent sharp sand to small gravel content.<\/strong> Roughly 65 percent of the soil on the planet can be used to make compressed earth blocks.<\/p>\n Earthenware is the type of ceramic that is used when making brick. This is because earthenware is lighter and easy to work with. For more information about this topic, you can check out this article that we have written titled, which type of ceramic is used for making brick?<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n Compressed earth blocks can be made manually or with the use of a machine. The soil is broken up and the larger granules of sand, gravel, and soil are removed by sifting. The dry screened sand and soil are ten mixed well, adding lime or cement to the mix. Mixing can be done by hand or with the use of rakes, shovels, or large machinery. Enough moisture is added into the mix to achieve 10 to 12 percent moisture content. The soil is then compressed and molded into uniform blocks, stacked, covered, and cured for one month.<\/strong><\/p>\n Sustainable Living shared the video below on YouTube. It talks about how to make compressed earth blocks. The steps and important principles to follow when making CEB is also discussed. Click the play button below for more tips and information.<\/p>\n\n\nWhat are Compressed Earth Blocks?<\/h2>\n
Compressed Earth Blocks Advantages<\/h2>\n
Renewable Materials<\/h3>\n
Energy-Saving<\/h3>\n
Affordable<\/h3>\n
Environment-Friendly<\/h3>\n
Local<\/h3>\n
Insect Control<\/h3>\n
Compressed Earth Block Disadvantages<\/h2>\n
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What are Bricks?<\/h2>\n
Bricks Advantages<\/h2>\n
Low Maintenance<\/h3>\n
Energy-Efficient<\/h3>\n
Stylish<\/h3>\n
Weatherproof<\/h3>\n
Sustainable<\/h3>\n
Bricks Disadvantages<\/h2>\n
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How Strong are Compressed Earth Blocks?<\/h2>\n
How Long do Compressed Earth Blocks Last?<\/h2>\n
What are Compressed Earth Blocks Made Of?<\/h2>\n
Which Type of Ceramic is Used for Making Brick?<\/h2>\n
How are Compressed Earth Blocks Made?<\/h2>\n
\u2705 <\/b>Video \u2013 How to Make Compressed Earth Blocks<\/h3>\n