Interest Group:
Buildings should be built to last and as such the life cycle value of a building derived from long term durability, low maintenance and energy savings should be the key determining factor to be taken into account. Clay bricks fulfil all these requirements in ensuring solid quality constructions, and offer the most efficient and cost-effective solutions in the long-term.
Clay brick is a durable and timeless building material that complements the aesthetic and functional needs of any building. Structures that were built from clay brick and remain standing after centuries of exposure, have proved the durability of clay brick many times over. Thus, with very little maintenance, buildings made from clay brick can outlast many generations.
Energy Efficiency
Clay brick’s are renowned for their thermal attributes that provide warmth in winter and cooler conditions in summer, thus ensuring that energy is not squandered on artificial heating and cooling mechanisms.
Acoustic Insulation
Clay brick also facilitates the reduction of external noise for buildling occupants, and also prevents noise from within the home being heard by neighbours. The density of clay means they resist the transmission of airborne sound waves, ensuring that the ever present noise of today’s bustling urban environment will remain outside the walls. Built with clay, multi-dwelling buildings such as villas, townhouses, offices and apartments will not be subjected to excessive noise transmitted from adjoining buildings, or rooms.
Fireproof
Since clay brick is incombustible it cannot contribute to the start or spread of fires nor can it add fuel to make a fire more intense. Therefore, clay brick walls obtain maximum fire ratings as they are able to withstand fully developed fires the longest.
Weatherproof
Clay bricks are rendered water resistant making them impervious to all forms of weather conditions. They comprise of a fine capillary pore system which has the ability to absorb moisture from rain or water vapour and then release it back into the atmosphere again as quickly. Clay brick is the most reliable and enduring of all building materials. Few other fabricated building units have enjoyed such widespread and continuous popularity.
Consistency
Clay brick products must conform to stringent SABS industry codes that define the parameters of product manufacture, building design and materials application, and are deemed fit for purpose.