This choice when building a house can cost a fortune. Experts compared two hits

The choice of material for the walls of the house affects not only the construction costs, but also subsequent heating bills, acoustic comfort and durability of the entire structure. For years, two solutions have dominated Polish construction sites – porous ceramics and aerated concrete, i.e. aerated concrete. Each of them has its advantages, and the differences become especially visible during everyday use of the building.

Aerated concrete is valued primarily for its very good thermal parameters. Thanks to its porous structure, it effectively reduces heat loss and allows for a low heat transfer coefficient. Blocks with a thickness of 36–40 cm can achieve a U-value below 0.20 W/(m²·K), even without additional insulation. For this reason, the material is often chosen by people planning to build an energy-efficient house.

Aerated concrete or ceramics? Heating differences

Porous ceramics also provide good thermal properties, but usually require an additional layer of insulation to achieve parameters similar to aerated concrete. Thanks to the hollows and air chambers, ceramic blocks retain heat well and at the same time work well in multi-layer walls.

The differences between materials are even more visible when it comes to sound insulation. Porous ceramics, thanks to their greater mass and density, more effectively suppress sounds coming from outside and inside the building. This is especially important on busy roads or in densely built-up housing estates.

Aerated concrete or ceramics? Comfort and durability

Aerated concrete, despite its very good thermal insulation, is less effective at attenuating noise. The light and porous structure allows the walls to transmit more sounds. In practice, this often requires the use of additional solutions to improve acoustic comfort, such as special plasters or sandwich walls.

Porous ceramics are also considered to be an exceptionally durable and damage-resistant material. It tolerates loads, frost and contact with moisture well, which is why buildings made of ceramic hollow bricks can serve for dozens or even hundreds of years. Aerated concrete can also provide good durability, but requires more thorough protection against water and is more susceptible to mechanical damage.

Aerated concrete or ceramics? The costs may surprise you

The costs of building walls depend on many factors, including: house design, type of insulation and labor prices in a given region. Aerated concrete is light and easy to process, which often speeds up construction and shortens work time. Porous ceramics are also available as a complete building system, and the total cost of wall construction is very similar to that of aerated concrete technology.

Experts emphasize that the final choice should depend on the investor’s priorities. People who focus on energy efficiency and lower construction costs more often choose aerated concrete. In turn, investors who expect greater durability and better acoustic insulation more often choose porous ceramics.