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Green Bricks

Bricks are one of the most common building materials used in Australia today but they are not the most environmentally friendly alternative.  Why not consider using green bricks in your next building project?  They are just as good as standard bricks but are better for the environment and your hip pocket.  Read on to find out more.

Fly Ash Bricks

Every year, about several million tons of fly ash from coal fired power plants is recycled in building materials such as concrete but many more million tons goes to waste.  Fly ash bricks find a use for this waste and also reduce the environmental impact from the manufacture of standard bricks.  Standard bricks are environmentally inefficient as the manufacturing of these requires the use of kilns fired to high temperatures.  That wastes energy, pollutes the air, and also generates greenhouse gases.  Fly ash bricks are manufactured at room temperature, conserving energy.  Rather than using high heat, fly ash bricks solidify under pressure.  They also cost less to make, and don’t contribute to air pollution or global warming.  Once they are coloured and shaped, the bricks are similar to standard clay bricks, both in looks and in meeting or exceeding construction material standards.

Recycled Bricks

Recycled bricks are another way to be environmentally friendly when building.  They are up to twenty percent cheaper than new bricks.  The bricks can be used in any type of construction and because they are usually stored in house lots, there is no problem in matching brickwork.  You will get quality facework with a distinctive character.  Building with recycled bricks reduces greenhouse gas emission by 86 percent.

Mud or Earth Bricks

Mud or earth bricks are an environmentally sound and attractive building product.  They have been used for thousands of years around the world and are still used in most countries as an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to current building products.  These bricks provide thermal insulation in both summer and winter. They are fire resistant, sound proof, and can be entirely chemical free.  They can be made on site, to any shape, colour, or size needed.  Usually, they are made from local soils.