What to choose - aerated concrete or foam concrete? What is the difference between aerated concrete or foam concrete - a comparison of advantages and disadvantages What is better, aerated concrete or.

Products made from cellular concrete have long established themselves in the market, firmly occupying the niche of wall masonry materials. Although the first years of popularity of these materials on the market even experts predicted a great future for them with the complete displacement of brick, but this did not happen.

The strength indicators of building stone and brick have remained an impregnable bastion for the characteristics of cellular concrete. However, aerated concrete and foam concrete may be interesting for other qualities. Among them energy saving and light weight. Of course, there are a number of operational nuances that should be taken into account when choosing between gas and foam blocks.

Description of aerated concrete

Cellular concrete in the form of aerated concrete is blocks, slabs or panels intended for the construction of walls, partitions or structures. The basis of the material can be cement, lime, quartz sand, slag and waste from various industries.

A gas-forming agent is added to the primary composition, which further activates the chemical reaction process and promotes the formation of a cellular structure.

To understand the difference between aerated concrete and foam concrete, the manufacturing technique is of key importance. High-quality aerated concrete cannot be produced by handicraft methods.. This especially applies to autoclave blocks, for the manufacture of which special chambers are used. Actually, this is the final stage of production, during which the aerated concrete hardens.

Advantages of aerated concrete

Disadvantages of aerated concrete

The negative qualities of aerated concrete blocks are due to the same porous structure that endowed the material with many of the listed advantages. However, there are not so many shortcomings and only two can be considered serious:

Where is it preferable to use?

The best solution for using aerated concrete blocks would be interior walls, partitions, creating complex structural elements and providing thermal insulation.

It is advisable to use blocks for laying walls on which light loads are planned to be placed. The panels are suitable as thermal insulation for walls and partitions.

Description of foam concrete

Roughly speaking, a foam block is a simplified type of aerated concrete. The material is also one of the most popular representatives of cellular concrete.

In the manufacture of such blocks, approximately the same compositions are used, but the technology for further processing of the mass has significant differences. When deciding whether foam concrete or aerated concrete is better, you should keep in mind that the former is made using mechanical action. That is, with the help of pressure units and a foam generator, bubbles are formed, and subsequently pores. In the case of aerated concrete, a similar effect is created by chemical reaction from a blowing agent.

Pros of foam concrete

Disadvantages of foam concrete

By and large, foam blocks correspond the same negative qualities as in the case of a gas block. This is, in particular, the ability absorb moisture, which negatively affects performance.

It is further noted insufficient strength. The question of whether foam concrete or aerated concrete is better in terms of strength is ambiguous. In both cases, this characteristic depends on the brand, but even the most durable products are incomparable to brick.

In addition, it is the foam block, due to its simple manufacturing technique, that most often offered on the market in unsatisfactory quality, which is almost impossible to verify. It is possible to produce foam concrete with minimal technical support, so you should pay attention only to the products of large manufacturers.

Where is it better to use?

When it comes to the question of whether foam concrete or aerated concrete is better for construction, the first option is more profitable, because has a wider range of possible applications. Another thing is that aerated concrete allows you to solve problems of a smaller range, but with a greater share of responsibility.

The most popular is foam concrete in the form of blocks. The construction of walls in low-rise and high-rise buildings using foam blocks is quite common. Indoors, as well as when finishing facades, this material is used as a means of decorative and structurally complex design.

The concrete itself can used when pouring a roof, floor coverings, thermal insulation of communications, pipelines, etc. Grades with high strength values can also be used in foundation construction, although such technological solutions are still risky and are suitable for structures with small load-bearing loads.

When planning to build a house, it is important to immediately make the right choice of the main building material. The strength of the housing and the comfortable microclimate depend on what you will build the building from. The walls must be created from environmentally friendly raw materials, which have low sound and thermal conductivity, as well as fire-fighting properties. To make the final choice which is better, let’s compare two modern and popular materials and choose which is better - aerated concrete or foam concrete.


Foam concrete	Aerated concrete

The difference between aerated concrete and foam concrete

Production technology. The main difference between the materials under consideration lies in the technologies used and the raw materials used. Foam concrete is produced by mixing cement, sand, water and foaming additives, which can be of either organic or synthetic origin. The mixture is poured into molds or directly into formwork and hardens under natural atmospheric conditions.

You can judge which is better – aerated concrete or foam concrete – if you understand the fundamental technological difference between these materials.

Stability of quality. Aerated concrete is created in a factory according to GOST, while foam concrete can be produced directly at the construction site where the house is being built, that is, using a homemade method. Despite some advantages of foam concrete blocks in terms of financial investments, the quality of such material cannot be properly controlled.

Strength. If we compare blocks of the same density, foam concrete is significantly inferior to aerated concrete in its physical properties and strength. For the first building material, its performance completely depends on the quality of the materials used in its manufacture. And here we must take into account that manufacturers, in their desire to reduce production costs, often save on foaming agents, the quality of cement and sand.

Drying shrinkage. The shrinkage of foam concrete upon drying is higher than that of autoclaved aerated concrete blocks and amounts to 1–3 mm/m. Therefore, the risk of cracks appearing on the wall of a house over time when laying foam concrete blocks is higher, while the corresponding indicator for aerated concrete blocks does not exceed 0.5 mm/m.

Environmental friendliness. Another important difference between aerated concrete and foam concrete is safety from an environmental point of view. Since the second material can be produced from crushed stone waste and chemical additives, its environmental friendliness is lower. Aerated concrete, which is created from mineral raw materials, is impeccable in this regard. In addition, it has better vapor permeability compared to foam concrete, so housing built from it will have almost the same favorable microclimate as in a wooden house.

Geometry. The accuracy of the geometric dimensions of foam concrete products can be impaired due to the simplified production technology of this material - deviations in linear dimensions can be even 2 cm. The geometry of aerated concrete blocks is regulated by GOST, and the permissible deviations are insignificant and can be up to 2 mm, so the masonry turns out to be almost perfectly even.

Water absorption. Foam concrete manufacturers like to demonstrate their simple experience. If you throw such a block into water, it will remain on the surface for a long time. The same thing will happen with aerated concrete. Then what's the difference? Both materials have a porous structure, so they will still absorb approximately the same amount of moisture. But if foam concrete has only closed pores, then aerated concrete blocks have closed and open pores. Thanks to open pores, aerated concrete is able to release more moisture.

Thermal insulation properties. This parameter is affected by the block structure. The more uniform it is, the warmer the material. The structure of aerated concrete is more uniform than that of foam concrete, so the former has better strength and thermal insulation.

Build a house from foam concrete or aerated concrete?

Building a house from foam concrete or aerated concrete will cost much less than building from traditional brick. Cellular concrete is a lightweight material, so creating a massive foundation is not necessary; a lightweight structure is sufficient.


Foam concrete	Aerated concrete

The use of such materials makes it possible to reduce the thickness of the walls, which means that less building materials will be required. Large block sizes will allow you to spend less mortar on masonry and speed up the work process. The reliability of foam concrete and aerated concrete lies in their non-flammability, which cannot be said about buildings made of wood and timber. However, due to the worse thermal insulation properties of foam concrete at equal densities, it will be required 2-3 times more than aerated concrete to ensure thermal comfort at home.

Having examined the differences between aerated concrete and foam concrete, we can say with confidence that the first material wins in terms of its quality characteristics.

Comparison of foam concrete and aerated concrete

Characteristic	Aerated concrete	Foam concrete
Coefficient of thermal conductivity	0,084-0,147	0,22-0,37
Brands by density	300, 400, 500,	600, 700, 800, 900
Strength	Class B2.5 at D400	Class B2.5 at D700-800
Vapor permeability	Aerated concrete is higher than foam concrete at the same density
Deviations of geometric dimensions	+/- 1 mm	Up to 30 mm
Masonry, seam thickness	Laying with glue. Seam 1-3 mm	For sand-cement mortar. Seam up to 16mm
Foundation	Foam concrete has a higher specific gravity, therefore, with the same strength, the load on the foundation of foam concrete is higher
Installation	Because foam concrete blocks are heavier, making it more difficult to carry out work on the construction of walls and their further finishing
Working with material	Foam concrete blocks are more dense and uneven in structure, so they are more difficult to saw
Durability	More than 100 years	About 50 years

Gas block and foam block are related building materials. They are actively used, including in private construction. But people often ask the question which one is better.

Both types belong to the class of lightweight concrete. Knowing the basic characteristics of each of these concretes will allow you to make a choice in favor of one material or another. It must be said that this is not the same thing, as many may think at first glance.

What is a foam block

Foam concrete blocks are a cellular material that is obtained from a mixture of foam, sand, cement and water. The solution hardens, the foam allows it to retain air particles that are evenly distributed throughout the mass. These air bubbles create closed cells. The weight of the block is very light.

The foam block is fire-resistant, it is not flammable, and can withstand exposure to fire on one side for up to 7 hours.

Characteristics

Foam blocks have the following attractive characteristics:

Low level of heat transfer. The cellular structure provides good thermal insulation.
Excellent sound absorption, especially for noise frequencies.
Low weight makes this material easy to transport. This also ensures ease of installation and savings in construction. To build a house from foam blocks, you do not need to create a capital, expensive foundation or use special equipment.
Durability and long service life.
The processing is simple. The product is easy to saw and drill. The material is very resistant to strong compression. It should be noted that over time, quality characteristics only improve. This is explained by the duration of its internal maturation.
The material does not rot and does not age.
High resistance to low temperatures, this parameter is ensured by its finely porous structure.

What is a gas block

The gas block is made from cellular concrete. It is a lightweight cellular building material. Its production requires certain conditions - high temperature and humidity. Composition: cement, lime, sand and water. Aluminum powder is used to form gases that provide the porous structure of the material. Next, the solution is prepared and cut. The material is processed at high temperatures in an autoclave. This is done only in production conditions.

The gas block has low thermal conductivity. Houses made from aerated blocks do not need to be insulated, which allows you to save a lot of money. And in the warm season the wall does not overheat.

Characteristics

Gas blocks have the following characteristics:

Easy to process, it can be drilled, sawed, planed, driven into it with nails and staples.
Environmental friendliness. It is made from natural derivatives and the material is non-toxic. Perhaps in its naturalness it is second only to wood. But unlike it, gas blocks do not rot and are not susceptible to bacteria and bugs.
Fire safety. This material is not flammable, it belongs to 1 and 2 degrees of fire resistance.
Durability. Its service life exceeds 100 years. Old buildings made from this material currently show no signs of aging or decay.
High strength. This is due to good heat treatment during production.

What's better

The basic requirements for the building material from which it is planned to build walls are as follows:

Environmental friendliness.
Convenient form for work.
Big size.
Light weight is preferable.

Foam blocks and gas blocks satisfy all these requirements. But there are still differences. To understand which material is preferable, you need to become familiar with these differences.

Differences:

Geometry of individual blocks. Since gas blocks are produced under industrial conditions, their dimensional accuracy is slightly higher than that of foam blocks. The latter are often produced in artisanal conditions. This ensures more convenient laying of the material and less consumption of fastening compounds. But it cannot be unequivocally stated that aerated concrete is better to use.
Differences in manufacturing technology. Aerated blocks are absolutely environmentally friendly. While in the production of foam blocks industrial waste is often used instead of quartz sand. In addition, by-products of the leather industry, lye, are used for foaming. For this reason, such blocks have a limited shelf life, and the technical characteristics of this material are inconsistent. Since gas blocks are produced in factories, the quality control of the product is higher. And the technology for producing foam blocks is much simpler, which allows them to be produced in private settings. The finished solution is poured into molds where it hardens. This results in an uneven shape.
Package. Again, the question is in production conditions. Aerated blocks win on this point, since the material is carefully packaged after manufacturing. This allows it to be easily transported without thinking about protection from external influences: dirt, precipitation, dust. The foam block does not have packaging, so it is more vulnerable to precipitation. In this regard, foam blocks are inferior to gas blocks if they need to be transported over long distances.

Price

If you compare prices, you can see that there is no particular difference in the cost of constructing buildings and structures. Therefore, this parameter rarely has a serious influence on the choice of one material or another.

One cubic meter of aerated block costs approximately 3,000 to 4,500 rubles, depending on the region. The cost per unit depends on parameters such as density and size of the product, and is approximately 50-90 rubles. For a cubic meter of foam block you will have to pay from 2000 to 3000 rubles. One unit costs around 60-100 rubles. Prices are, of course, average.

What is better to use for construction

To decide which material is better to give preference when constructing various buildings, it is worth considering the scope of their application.

Namely:

Autoclaved aerated blocks are most often used for the construction of load-bearing structures and internal walls and partitions in private construction. They are also actively used to fill frames when creating a monolithic house. They can be used in the construction of multi-storey buildings and the construction of high-rise structures.
The aerated block, which was dried under natural conditions, has more limited application possibilities. It is less dense and durable, the dimensions are not as clear. It is often used to create a thermal insulation layer, as well as foam block.
The scope of application of foam blocks is as follows: construction of internal walls and partitions, external load-bearing walls up to the 3rd floor, creation of fences. They are also used for the construction of industrial buildings, thermal insulation of walls, floors, and ceilings in non-residential premises.

For home

For the construction of buildings with 2-3 floors, private houses, guest houses and permanent residence, gas blocks are often used.

For garage

Buildings made from aerated blocks are durable and last a long time. But if you look at the cost, it is more economical to choose foam concrete. It is also actively used in the construction of non-residential buildings.

Garage walls are subject to requirements such as strength, reliability, and resistance to mechanical stress. The choice of material may depend only on the personal preferences of the owners.

It is easier for beginners to work with gas blocks, which have fixed dimensions and do not need to be adjusted.

For the bath

Unlike foam concrete, gas silicate blocks are afraid of water, easily absorb it and take a long time to dry. They provide excellent heat and sound insulation, but it is not recommended to use them for the construction of a bathhouse.

Foam blocks can be used to construct walls in places with high humidity levels. This makes it possible to build baths from them. Its advantages are also frost resistance and good thermal protection.

The modern market has literally been enslaved by such building materials as foam block and gas block. Many consumers are confident that the names indicated belong to the same product with its pros and cons. But in fact, these are different building materials, which have quite a lot of differences. Today we will figure out how they differ from each other and determine which is better - a gas block or a foam block.

Characteristic

Foam concrete, aerated concrete and foam aerated concrete blocks are in great demand today. Houses built from them are very common. The demand for such building materials is due to their affordable cost and good performance characteristics. In addition, it should be noted that the listed blocks can be used to build not only residential buildings, but also various outbuildings.

To answer the main question, which material is better - foam block or gas block, you need to familiarize yourself with their characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.

Foam concrete

Foam block is a very popular material that is in great demand among modern consumers. It produces fairly stable and durable buildings, the construction of which can be completed in the shortest possible time. Working with foam blocks is easy - you don’t need any special education or extensive experience in construction to do this.

Most people looking to build a house or outbuilding choose foam concrete blocks because of their low cost. Moreover, some users make this material with their own hands - the recipe for making foam blocks is very simple and understandable, you just need to adhere to the correct proportions.

Foam concrete blocks have many advantages, as well as disadvantages.

First, let's look at the benefits of these building materials:

Foam blocks are distinguished by low thermal conductivity. Thanks to them, this building material produces very warm and cozy houses, which sometimes do not require additional insulation.
Such materials are light in weight, so working with them is not labor-intensive. Moreover, the master can handle many processes alone, without the assistance of assistants.
From the above advantages of foam blocks, another important advantage follows - due to their light weight, foam block constructions do not place significant loads on the foundation structure.
Foam block buildings boast good soundproofing qualities.

Foam block is a material with a large volume, therefore various types of buildings are made from it quickly.
Another significant advantage of foam blocks is that they are inexpensive. Most consumers can afford to purchase these building materials.
It should also be mentioned that foam blocks are a very malleable material. If required, they can be filed or trimmed with a hacksaw.
As a rule, foam blocks are environmentally friendly. They do not cause any harm to the health of household members. Of course, during the manufacture of these materials, synthetic components are used, but their content is too small to harm humans.

Foam block is a material that boasts a long service life. Moreover, over the years, foam block buildings do not lose their positive qualities.
This building material is not afraid of fire. It neither supports the flame nor ignites itself.
Many users mistakenly believe that only simple and monotonous constructions can be made from foam blocks. Actually this is not true. If the owners have such a desire, a foam block house can be made very original and fashionable.
The foam block itself does not require mandatory decorative finishing. Of course, it will be more protected if it is covered with plaster or any other suitable material, but this is not a primary need.

As you can see, modern foam blocks and its varieties have plenty of positive qualities. That is why today many users choose it for building houses (and not only).

However, not everything is so rosy - the given building material also has significant disadvantages, which you also need to familiarize yourself with:

Foam block is a material that has a porous structure. Because of this fact, such products become more fragile, especially at the edges. For this reason, you need to transport and handle foam blocks very carefully so as not to accidentally damage them.
As mentioned above, it is not necessary to finish foam block structures, but it is better to do so. Firstly, in this way you will protect the material from aggressive external influences, and secondly, the construction will look much more attractive. But here you may encounter one common problem - to finish foam blocks you need to select special paints/plasters that are designed for foam concrete bases.

Foam blocks require reinforcement. Typically, reinforcement is installed at the junctions of materials. If you do not supplement the structure with a reliable seismic belt, then you will not be able to build high-quality floors and install an equally strong rafter structure.
One of the main disadvantages of using foam blocks is that the modern market is literally overflowing with low-quality counterfeits made in clandestine conditions. Such materials are often made out of proportion, which leads to their increased fragility.
If you want to make a residential building from foam concrete elements, then you need to take into account the fact that it is permissible to begin such work only after a scrupulous series of calculations. For example, you will need to determine the thickness of the walls of the construction, taking into account all the loads.
For buildings made of foam concrete, it is necessary to construct special foundations of a form-building type.
Some subtypes of foam blocks do not have the correct geometry. Often, during construction work, they have to be sanded and trimmed for a long time and meticulously, so that the same ceilings or walls turn out smooth and neat.

There are a number of subtypes of modern foam concrete blocks.

They are divided according to purpose:

Structural. Instances of this type are designed for heavy loads. They are often used for the construction of multi-storey buildings. Large buildings made of foam blocks are most often insulated, since this material is characterized by considerable thermal conductivity.
Thermal insulation. These types of foam concrete blocks are very different from the structural options. They are non-thermal conductive, so homes built from them are very warm. But thermal insulation blocks cannot be called highly durable. Usually they are used only as an additional layer in the construction of residential buildings.
Structural and thermal insulation. These subtypes of foam blocks are considered universal. They have excellent strength qualities, as well as good thermal insulation properties. Such materials are perfect for the construction of load-bearing walls or ordinary partitions. Very often, bathhouses or low-rise houses are built from such blocks.

These materials also differ in their manufacturing method:

Molded (cassette). The name of such foam blocks speaks for itself. During their manufacture, special molds are used, closed with partitions. This production method is considered to be the most economical. However, molded parts have one drawback - the dimensions of finished foam concrete blocks are inaccurate and poorly calibrated.
Rifled. The above foam blocks are made from ready-made mortar, which is cut into individual parts using a special steel string. These materials can boast of regular and neat angles. In addition, they are geometrically verified.

Various structures are made from foam concrete blocks.

Depending on the specific purpose, one or another option from the following is used:

Wall. These foam blocks are more common than others. They are often used during suburban construction. This can be not only the construction of a private residential building, but also any personal building.
Septal. The second most popular are partition foam blocks. They are quite thin - 100-150 mm. They are used to build strong and wear-resistant partitions in the interior of the building. Due to their thickness, partition blocks can be cut without problems if required. Thanks to this distinctive feature, experienced craftsmen use such blocks to make beautiful arched structures.

Special purpose. In the manufacture of special trays, foam concrete blocks for special purposes are usually used. Reinforcement is usually installed in these elements.
Reinforced. Such foam blocks are parts made of foam concrete reinforced with a steel frame. Most often, reinforced blocks are used as lintels instead of standard reinforced concrete elements.
Non-standard. There are also special non-standard foam blocks. They are made specifically according to customer orders.

Foam blocks are available in different dimensional parameters.

Materials intended for masonry using glue are made with the following dimensions:

length: 188 mm width: 300 (mm), height: 588 (mm);
188 mm x 250 mm x 588 mm;
288 mm x 200 mm x 588 mm;
188 mm x 200 mm x 388 mm;
288 mm x 250 mm x 488 mm;
144 mm x 300 mm x 588 mm;
119 mm x 250 mm x 588 mm;
88 mm x 300 mm x 588 mm;
88 mm x 250 mm x 588 mm;
88 mm x 200 mm x 388 mm.

As for foam concrete blocks intended for laying on cement, their dimensions can be as follows:

length 198 mm, width: 295 mm, height: 598 mm;
198 mm x 245 mm x 598 mm;
298 mm x 195 mm x 598 mm;
198 mm x 195 mm x 398 mm;
298 mm x 245 mm x 298 mm;
98 mm x 295 mm x 598 mm;
98 mm x 245 mm x 598 mm;
98 mm x 195 mm x 398 mm.

Aerated concrete

The main “competitor” of foam concrete is a building material such as aerated concrete. Many consumers also turn to him who want to build a house or some kind of outbuilding on the site. This popular product, like foam block, has its strengths and weaknesses.

Let's start with the good - consider the advantages of aerated concrete blocks:

This building material is distinguished by its high density, which can range from 400 to 1200 kg/m3. If you use high-quality wall material with low specific gravity, you can spend very little time on the construction of this or that structure.
Aerated concrete blocks are moisture resistant. Even in conditions of air humidity of 60%, the indicator of gas blocks will be about 5%. If the air humidity level reaches 96%, then it can reach 8%.

Another significant advantage of aerated concrete is its fire safety, as is the case with foam blocks. This material can withstand even extremely high temperatures without any obstacles. In addition, the gas block does not support combustion.
Aerated concrete blocks are also not afraid of very low temperature values. Thanks to this quality, it is permissible to use such materials even in harsh climatic conditions.
This building material is not afraid of biological influences. Aerated concrete does not need to be additionally treated with protective compounds or antiseptics, like, for example, wood.
This building material is durable. Constructions made from aerated concrete can last 100 years or more.

Aerated concrete is environmentally friendly. It contains no dangerous toxins that have a negative impact on human health. Only wood can compete with aerated concrete blocks in terms of environmental friendliness.
Like foam concrete, aerated concrete has good sound insulation qualities. By building a wall of this material with a thickness of 40 cm, you don’t have to worry about noise coming from the street.
Another advantage of aerated concrete is that it has good thermal insulation qualities. Houses made from this material in many cases do not need additional insulation. At the same time, a comfortable microclimate is always maintained inside such a home.

The undoubted advantage of aerated concrete is its level of strength. If it is properly reinforced, then you can build a large house with three floors.
This building material is distinguished by its ease of processing. It can be trimmed or sawed if required. The block can be easily given certain sizes and shapes. However, here it is worth considering one nuance: dowels are held very poorly in aerated concrete walls, so it is recommended to use other fasteners - self-tapping screws.
The production of aerated concrete requires little cement.
This building material is inexpensive, because its production uses raw materials of natural origin - quartz sand, cement, lime.

Aerated concrete is lightweight, so working with it is not too labor-intensive. Its structure is also cellular, so you can easily move such blocks without resorting to the help of a crane.
Aerated concrete is a universal material that is used not only in the construction of houses or outbuildings, but also in the manufacture of fireplaces, steps or fences. This advantage is due to the flexibility of this material - it can be given almost any shape.
This material also has excellent vapor and air permeability characteristics. The coefficient of these qualities for foam concrete is almost the same as for wood. According to experts, air circulation and humidity levels in a house made of such material will be naturally regulated, creating a comfortable microclimate.
Currently, aerated concrete blocks are manufactured in factories where strict quality control of products is carried out at each stage of production.

Aerated concrete blocks are not ideal, as are foam concrete options.

They have their own disadvantages:

This material is characterized by high hygroscopicity.
If the foundation of the building was built with any violations, then gas-block buildings may develop noticeable cracks. Moreover, these defects occur not only along the masonry lines, but also on the gas blocks themselves. Microscopic cracks appear on this building material in just 2-4 years.
Yes, aerated concrete blocks are responsible for creating the ideal level of humidity in the room, but over time, these materials begin to accumulate excess moisture in their structure. This leads to dampness and delamination of the blocks.
Aerated concrete does not have the highest price, but it is higher than the cost of foam blocks.
Gas blocks cannot boast of sufficient thermal insulation characteristics, especially when compared with foam blocks.

There are several types of aerated concrete.

Each type has its own marking.

D350. This brand is considered one of the most rare. This is due to the fact that such blocks are fragile. They can only be installed as seals. The strength level of D350 is 0.7-1.0 MPa.
D400. This type of aerated concrete is more durable and strong. This property of this material can range from 1 to 1.5 MPa. Such materials are used both as thermal insulation and as openings in multi-story buildings.
D500. The strength level of this building material is 2-3 MPa. Typically, such blocks are used in the construction of monolithic buildings. They are also suitable for low-rise construction.
D600. High-strength aerated concrete blocks have this marking. Their strength level can be 2.4-4.5 MPa. Due to its performance characteristics, aerated concrete grade D600 can be used for the construction of buildings with ventilated facades.

It is impossible to say for sure which of the listed options for aerated concrete blocks is the best, since each category has both disadvantages and advantages.

The brand of aerated concrete affects its final cost.

Aerated concrete blocks also differ in their shapes:

rectangular elements are used to construct partitions and load-bearing walls;
reinforced parts are usually purchased for the manufacture of ceilings;
T-shaped blocks are used for floors;
U-shaped aerated concrete blocks are used for openings;
There are also arc-like versions of aerated concrete blocks.

Gas blocks, like foam blocks, are heat-insulating, structural and structural-thermal-insulating. As for the size of aerated concrete, much depends on their shape.

Simple rectangular elements have the following dimensions:

length – 625 mm;
width – 100 mm, 150 mm, 200 mm, 240 mm, 300 mm, 400 mm;
height – 250 mm.

U-shaped blocks are available in the following dimensions:

length – 600 mm;
width – 200 mm, 240 mm, 300 mm, 400 mm;
height – 250 mm.

Production technology

Foam concrete and aerated concrete are produced using different technologies. Let's take a closer look at them.

Aerated concrete blocks are produced as follows:

First, the necessary materials are prepared in the required proportions (these include sand, lime and cement). Being in a dry state, they are mixed using special equipment for 4-5 minutes. After this, a suspension of aluminum powder, based on water, is added to the mixed composition.
As mixing progresses, the lime reacts with the aluminum. Due to this, hydrogen is formed. Due to strong gas formation, air bubbles form in the composition. They are evenly distributed throughout the solution.
After this, the finished composition is poured into the mold. It must be preheated to 40 degrees. Filling is done to ¼ of the container volume.
When the composition is sent to the molds, they are transferred to a special chamber, where further pore formation of the material takes place. As a result, the volume of the resulting mass begins to gradually grow and acquires the properties of strength. To activate the necessary reactions in the solution, as well as for its optimal distribution in the form, they turn to vibration.
When the resulting composition reaches pre-hardening, any irregularities must be removed from its surface. This is done using wire strings.
Next, the composition is taken out of the chamber and transferred to the cutting line.
The next step in the production of gas blocks is to send them to the autoclave.

Often, aerated concrete slabs are marked with the designation AGB (implying autoclave material). At the same time, the autoclave itself is a kind of “pressure cooker” of impressive dimensions. Under its conditions, a pressure of 12 atm is injected and then maintained. As for the temperature, it should be 85-190 degrees. In this environment, aerated concrete slabs are prepared within 12 hours.

When the blocks are completely cooked in the autoclave, they are further divided, since during preparation in some places they can connect with each other. After this, these materials are placed in a special heat-shrinkable material or polyethylene.

Aerated concrete is also produced without the use of an autoclave. In this case, the composition hardens under natural conditions - in this case, there is no need to use special equipment.

But these materials will turn out to be less reliable. They will shrink more and will not be as strong as autoclave options.

Foam concrete is made a little simpler and lighter. There are 2 methods of its production - cassette and sawing.

The cassette method involves pouring the solution into special molds.

The technology, called sawing, involves pouring the solution into one large container, after which it is allowed to harden and further cut into individual elements of the required dimensions.

To make foam concrete blocks, cement of the M400 and M500 grades, clean sand without clay, a foaming agent, potassium chloride and, of course, water are used.

Requirements for use

If you decide to use foam concrete or aerated concrete to build a house, then You should consider a number of specific requirements for the use of these materials.

The foundation must be as strong as possible, despite the fact that such block materials are light in weight and have a porous structure.
The horizontal surface of the foundation structure must be covered with waterproofing.
Drilling holes, cutting, and gating blocks with cells is carried out in the same way. For cutting, a hand saw is used, holes are drilled with a drill and core drills.
Foam block materials can be laid on cement or special glue. Aerated concrete is installed only with glue.
Stop work on the house if necessary. Preserve the object for the winter. Nothing will happen to the foam concrete walls during this time, but aerated concrete should be covered with a waterproof film.
Make sure that the fasteners stay in place on both materials. It is advisable to use special screws, anchors and hardware.
To cover such block facades, you need to use special plasters, lining, siding, stone and other similar materials. There are no serious restrictions.
Sometimes it is not necessary to insulate houses made of porous blocks. If this is necessary, then you need to turn to insulation. It is recommended to use basalt wool.
Not every plaster is suitable for finishing such block bases. For foam blocks and gas blocks, you need to purchase compounds that will maintain their vapor permeability.

How to choose?

To understand which material is better, You should compare foam block and gas block according to several parameters:

Structure. Foam blocks have large and closed cells with weak water absorption. Their surface is gray. Gas silicate blocks have smaller pores. They have weaker thermal insulation and require additional finishing.
Strength characteristics. Aerated concrete blocks are less dense (200-600 kg/cube) than foam concrete blocks (300-1600 kg/cube). Despite this, foam concrete is inferior to aerated concrete, since its structure is heterogeneous.
Frost resistance. Autoclaved aerated concrete blocks are more frost-resistant and vapor-permeable than other similar materials.
Features of application. Cellular foam concrete is used in low-rise construction. It is also used in the construction of monolithic buildings (here it is used as an additional insulating layer). Aerated concrete materials are used as the main structural and thermal insulation materials. Houses of varying complexity are built from them.

Production. It is much easier to run into low-quality foam concrete than poor aerated concrete. This is due to the fact that the former is often made at home, while the process of creating aerated concrete materials is more high-tech and is often carried out in factory conditions.
Price. Price is the most obvious difference between foam blocks and gas blocks. The latter will cost more, since foam concrete blocks are made from cheap raw materials.
Soundproofing. Foam concrete blocks have better soundproofing characteristics than aerated concrete options.
Life time. On average, foam concrete lasts no more than 35 years, and aerated concrete – more than 60 years. This is another important difference that needs to be taken into account when choosing the right material.
Shrinkage. The degree of shrinkage of foam blocks is greater than this parameter of gas silicate materials. It is 2.4 (and aerated concrete - 0.6).

It is not so difficult to distinguish aerated concrete from foam concrete. It is enough to pay attention to their surfaces. Foam blocks are smooth, and gas blocks are slightly rough. It is more difficult to say with confidence which building material is better, since both have their pros and cons. However, you need to take into account the opinion of experts who claim that gas blocks are stronger and their frost-resistant characteristics are better. As for foam blocks, they are warmer and cheaper.

Foam block (foam concrete) and aerated block (aerated concrete) are related building materials; they belong to the class of lightweight concrete, but nevertheless have distinctive characteristics. These materials are widely popular in the construction of partitions, arches, ceilings, and in the construction of low-rise buildings.

Even by appearance, you can determine the difference between a foam block and a gas block. In the first option, the building product has a smooth surface and a shade of gray concrete. The second has a white lime color and a relief surface.

Aerated concrete was given this term because during its manufacturing procedure a chemical reaction occurs, as a result of which gas is released.

Foam concrete gets its name from the classic combination of concrete and foam. The production of blocks occurs using a mechanical connection of concrete mixture and foam.

Structural features

You can compare foam block and gas block in many ways, but the main feature of their difference is the cellular structure.

Aerated concrete. It has fine-mesh pores with mini-cracks. This material structure is inferior to foam block in terms of waterproofing and thermal insulation properties. Therefore, it additionally requires external finishing or a special coating.

Foam concrete. It has closed pores, therefore it has high soundproofing and thermal insulation characteristics.

Comparison by production method

Gas block. In addition to natural components such as water, quartz sand, cement and lime, manufacturers add aluminum paste. This element in its pure form is hazardous to human health. But in the process of chemical reactions, particles of aluminum metal chips are converted into oxygen, so they are not included in the finished aerated concrete block. Lime is worth mentioning separately. It gives the product stable characteristics.

Foam block. In production, almost identical materials are used, but instead of quartz sand, production waste is added: nepheline sludge, blast furnace slag, etc. To form the foam mass, production by-products are also used: sulfide or soap liquor, etc.

Differences also exist in the fact that foam concrete is produced mainly by handicraft methods (see Production of foam blocks at home), and aerated concrete is produced in factories. Although related materials are manufactured according to the same GOST or DSTU, the quality of factory-made building materials is always tested in laboratory conditions. And the reputation of the foam block has been reduced by people who are far from such concepts as strength, reliability, hydro- and thermal insulation in construction terminology.

But you should not make hasty conclusions that the foam block is worse than the gas block.

What is the difference between aerated concrete or foam concrete - comparison of advantages and disadvantages

Technical characteristics and applications

Aerated concrete blocks:

Strength;
Ease;
Virtually no shrinkage;
Fireproof;
Frost-resistant;
Low thermal conductivity.

Application options:

Construction of load-bearing walls;
Construction of partitions in one and two-story houses;
Filling frames in monolithic buildings, etc.

Foam concrete blocks:

Durability;
Ease;
Good thermal insulation and noise insulation;
Strength;
Fire safety;
Moisture resistance.

Application options:

Construction of floor slabs;
Construction of partitions and load-bearing walls;
Construction of staircases, blocks, etc.;
It is recommended to use for load-bearing and self-supporting walls up to a height of 12 m.

When choosing a foam block or aerated block, you should also take into account the fact that, unlike foam concrete, gas silicate blocks, in addition to cement mortar, can also be placed on an adhesive base. And there are no differences in masonry technology.

Comparison of geometric dimensions

The size parameter in construction plays an important role in the selection of masonry materials. The tightness of the building and the complexity of the installation process depend on it.

Only professional builders should work with foam concrete blocks, as they have significant errors in standard dimensions. As noted above, this problem is associated with a private type of production.

Read also: Aerated concrete blocks - Dimensions

Difference in material strength

When weighing the pros and cons of all the characteristics of foam blocks and gas blocks, you should also pay attention to the contents of the cement composition. If many different slags are added to it, the quality of the material decreases.

Strength is another indicator of how a foam block differs from a gas block. Foam concrete belongs to high-strength building materials, since its p=650/m3, and for gas silicate material, p=650 kg/m3.

Differences in price indicators

The optimal cost of gas blocks and foam blocks depends on the region of their use. But the demand for this product also plays an important role in the movement of trade. On average, the price for an aerated block is 2045 – 2220 rubles/m3. The cost of foam blocks is from 1330 rub/m3 to 1570 m/cube (see Cost of foam blocks per piece).

Read also: Which is better foam block or gas block?, Which foundation is better for a house made of foam blocks, Glue consumption for foam blocks

The difference between foam concrete and aerated concrete

For masonry walls, most developers now use lightweight, large-sized blocks made of cellular concrete, which make it possible to speed up the laying many times over and are easy to machine.

What is the difference between aerated concrete and foam concrete?

To understand the difference between aerated concrete and foam concrete, you should familiarize yourself with their properties. Knowing the characteristics of each material, the developer chooses the optimal option for thermal insulation and exterior finishing, extending the service life of the building.

Distinctive features of foam block from gas block

The formation of pores in foam concrete is caused by the introduction of foaming agents into the concrete mixture, and the porosization of aerated concrete occurs due to the addition of aluminum powder, which promotes the release of hydrogen. After molding, the blocks dry naturally or undergo heat treatment with steam in autoclaves under pressure up to 13 atmospheres.

Density and strength

Having the same density, foam blocks and gas blocks differ in strength characteristics: with a density of 500 kg/m 3, aerated concrete can withstand a load of 34 kg/cm 2, and non-autoclaved foam concrete - only 9 kg/cm 2.

Structure and properties

The cells of aerated blocks are open, their structure resembles a sponge - they are saturated with moisture, but also easily release it, ensuring proper gas exchange within the walls of the building. With a density of D500 and a humidity of 6%, aerated concrete has a thermal conductivity index of 0.116, while for foam concrete of the same density it ranges from 0.13 to 0.16. The fluctuations are explained by the unequal cell sizes in the foam concrete and their non-uniform distribution. A comparison of aerated concrete and foam concrete shows that for the same level of energy saving, walls made of the first material should have a thickness of 36 cm, and of the second - 65 cm.

Due to its closed structure (that is, the bubbles are isolated from each other), foam concrete does not absorb moisture. Therefore, a house made of foam blocks can stand for 2-3 years without external decoration, without being subject to special environmental influences. The structural features of the material ensure its high heat and sound insulation qualities. This type of concrete is successfully used in wet conditions. By normalizing the amount of foam-forming components, blocks of different densities and purposes (for thermal insulation or for building walls) are obtained.

Unlike foam concrete, aerated concrete contains only natural mineral components. Either a synthetic or a protein foaming agent is introduced into the foam concrete mixture (in the first case, the material has a hazard class of 4, and in the second, it is not at all dangerous).

How to increase the strength of foam concrete

With conventional technology, foam blocks are molded and then dried naturally for 28 days. New techniques make it possible to significantly strengthen the building material while maintaining its positive properties. Drying in an autoclave, like mixing foam, occurs under excess pressure. At the same time, the adhesion of cement and quartz particles improves, reducing the shrinkage of foam blocks. In terms of strength, the autoclave product after 2 days is 3 to 5 times ahead of the usual (completely dried) product and is almost as good as aerated concrete.

The difference between autoclaved foam concrete and aerated concrete is that, due to the simplicity of the equipment used, its cost is 30% lower.

Average prices for various types of cellular concrete

To build a warm home, manufacturers offer a choice of gas and foam blocks, which allow them to reduce the thickness of load-bearing walls and the load on the foundation.

What is the difference between a gas block and a foam block?

They do not always purchase a product that is cheaper, since each type of cellular concrete has its own advantages. The difference in their characteristics will appear from the storage stage to the final coating (including the composition and thickness of the plaster layer).

What do they represent?
Comparison of technical parameters
Price

Description of a block of lightweight cellular concrete

On selling sites, it is not always clear how foam blocks differ from gas blocks, except for the difference in cost among the presented manufacturers. The porous material on the chips shows rounded cells that do not intersect with cavities. It is used for the construction of low-rise buildings and internal partitions.

The difference, manifested in performance, begins with production technology, the process of formation of pores in the concrete mass. Foam concrete can be produced in 3 ways:

portioned use of a foam generator together with a concrete mixer;
barotechnology (foaming occurs directly on a high-speed working body, without preliminary (separate) generation of foam;
continuous pouring of the foam mass directly at the construction site using special installations in which dry components and liquids go through all stages of mixing and are supplied through pipelines with pumps directly to the place where the foam concrete is laid.

The difference between aerated concrete is that it is produced only in factory conditions. The porous structure is formed as a result of a chemical reaction inside the material. The process is finally completed after a long time - therefore, cracks appear on 100% of the aerated concrete block (the fracture of several aerated concrete stones in the masonry indicates a displacement of the base). This difference between aerated concrete can be used well to increase adhesion with the masonry composition - products made less than 30 days before the start of their installation in the structure set perfectly due to the ongoing reaction.

Elements made of foam concrete have a grayish tint and a rough surface formed by the walls of the mold into which the liquid solution is poured. The gas block is lighter, yellowish-white in color, its correct geometry is caused by the cutting procedure from a common casting. The pores of foam concrete are closed, their size is 1.5-2 times larger than that of aerated concrete. This structure of foam concrete blocks makes them less permeable to moisture, they better withstand external factors.

Differences in characteristics of aerated concrete and foam concrete

The advantages and disadvantages of cellular concrete must be considered for each specific case. Reviews on many forums contain the following approaches:

The correct geometry of the gas block allows you to quickly and easily lay out the wall on a thin layer of glue. The minimum thickness of the seam increases the thermal insulation qualities of aerated concrete structures. The solution consumption for a foam block is higher, but it is inexpensive and is prepared independently from cement and sand.
Aerated concrete absorbs water better - it must be protected during transportation, storage and as part of structures. Moisture remains in the material and it loses its characteristics. But good vapor permeability allows you to build a ventilated façade. Less weight than foam concrete - increases the total load from the building on the underlying soil.
When building walls and partitions, it is necessary to take into account the strength/fragility of aerated concrete under distorting influences. If you plan to hang massive pieces of furniture and equipment on them, then it is better to use foam blocks and a larger number of attachment points.

The technical conditions for these types of products are specified by GOST 21520-89 (Small cellular concrete wall blocks). To determine the desired type, compare the following parameters:

Strength (kgf/cm2). Aerated concrete can withstand compression 25-45, foam block - 15-25.
Density (kg/m3). Foam concrete has a wider range for this indicator - from 300 to 1200, aerated block - 400-600. For the construction of external walls, it is better to use both types of grades D500-600.
Thermal conductivity (W/m°C). Aerated concrete has a greater ability to maintain room heating: 0.1-0.014 compared to foam blocks 0.14-0.22.
Frost resistance (cycles). The ratio of foam/gas block is from 35/from 50.
Water absorption (% by weight) of foam concrete is 2 times lower, 10-16 compared to 25 for its gas counterpart.

According to their purpose, the gas block is divided into the following types:

solid/hollow wall;
semi-block partition;
non-standard (according to customer's size).

The most popular dimensions of foam concrete elements:

200x400x600 external load-bearing walls;
300x200x600 internal load-bearing structures;
100x300x600 partitions, unloaded walls.

Foam concrete is cheaper to manufacture. The difference is also manifested in the fact that it is better to purchase it not on pallets, so that equipment is not required when unloading it yourself. The gas block must be protected with film from moisture.

When is it best to use each type?

A comparison of the characteristics of these two masonry materials demonstrates the dependence of the choice of cellular concrete on the purpose of the building and the allocated budget. The determining factor as to what is best to choose in this case will be the design and operating conditions of the building.

1. Weight load on the foundation. The D500 gas block with dimensions 260x240x590 has a mass of 35.13 kg. Foam concrete 250x250x600 of the same strength weighs 24.4 kg. In cases where the value of the bearing capacity of the soil approaches the total mass of the structure, this difference becomes critical for the choice.

2. Load-bearing capacity. Foam concrete products are suitable for the construction of low-rise buildings with 1-2 floors, fences, and auxiliary buildings. According to the criterion of permissible wall height, the gas block has good compressive strength. SNiP allows the laying of vertical structures from it up to 20 m.

3. Climate. The thermal resistance of aerated concrete makes it possible to reduce the cross-section of walls by 1.5-2 times compared to foam concrete in areas with low annual temperatures. The geometry of the cut gas silicate with a seam thickness of 1-3 mm ensures a minimum of cold bridges.

4. Interior humidity. It is better to build unheated structures from foam concrete - it better withstands fluctuations in environmental indicators. The gas block requires reliable waterproofing. When the air is saturated with water vapor above 60%, the foam block must be well protected with a layer of cement plaster. Aerated concrete has better vapor permeability; it is used in the construction of ventilated facades in temperate and hot climates with fairly dry conditions.

5. Contractor or DIY installation. When laying aerated concrete blocks, it is important to follow the technology and have the necessary skills. It is better to start gaining experience on your own with foam concrete. Large-sized products speed up the work of a team of professionals, but create problems when installed by one person.

6. Reinforcement. Horizontal reinforcement with a belt made of steel rod or composite is available only in aerated concrete - grooves are easily cut in the desired direction to a given depth. The foam block can be laid with a basalt mesh.

7. Shrinkage. For foam concrete this figure is about 1-3 mm/m. For aerated concrete it has a value of no more than 0.5 mm/m. The material practically does not crack for this reason.

The characteristics of foam concrete of the same brand may differ within the established tolerances. You should purchase the entire volume from one batch from a trusted manufacturer.

Price policy

Blocks differ in cost depending on the manufacturer, the distance of the supplier, and the size of the purchased batch. In winter, there is a wider system of discounts on the products themselves, loading and delivery of aerated concrete.

The production of foam concrete is cheaper. The cost of an aerated block includes high prices for technological equipment and raw materials. The costs of preparing masonry mortar (average joint thickness 10–30 mm) for foam concrete offset the difference in the overall construction estimate.

The purchase is planned at a cost of 1 piece or 1 m3.

A cut, steamed gas block of the D700, 800 brand will be 10-15% more expensive than D600 foam concrete. The price of a structural foam block is higher than thermal insulation options.