Considered lightweight and insulating, polystyrene concrete is becoming more and more popular in the building sector. It is created by combining cementitious binder with polystyrene beads, and it has many clear benefits. First off, labor costs are decreased because of its low density, which makes it simpler to handle and transport than conventional concrete. Additionally, this material has superior thermal and sound insulation qualities, which improve building comfort and energy efficiency.
Notwithstanding these advantages, there are a few unstated drawbacks to polystyrene concrete that should be taken into account. A notable apprehension is its vulnerability to mechanical harm. The presence of polystyrene beads in concrete can compromise its structural integrity, particularly in high-impact areas or when large loads are applied. Furthermore, even though it provides good thermal insulation, in some applications it may not be as fire-resistant as conventional concrete mixes, necessitating the use of additional fireproofing measures.
Reviews by experts on polystyrene concrete show that different viewpoints exist within the building industry. Numerous professionals agree that it is useful in certain situations where insulation and weight reduction are essential, like in prefabricated panels and light-weight fillers. In load-bearing structures, however, or in areas where fire resistance and durability are critical, caution is advised. To guarantee that a material is appropriate for a given project, engineers and architects frequently advise conducting extensive testing and taking local building codes into account.
- Advantages of polystyrene concrete blocks
- Minuses
- Opinions
- Residents and home owners
- Builders
- Video on the topic
- Polystyrene concrete blocks: disadvantages and advantages. Plastblock.
- Polystyrene concrete blocks: disadvantages and advantages.
- Is polystyrene concrete DANGEROUS for life or not??!!!??? FOR THE FIRST TIME – Complete dismantling of a polystyrene concrete house!
Advantages of polystyrene concrete blocks
When building walls, polystyrene concrete blocks have the following main benefits:
- No need for additional insulation.
- Low thermal conductivity. The room will be warm in winter, which will reduce heating costs.
- High-quality sound insulation, the value of which does not exceed 37 dB. Additional protection from noise is provided by thin seams.
- Lightness of building elements. The weight of one block is 22 kg, but at the same time it replaces 17 bricks. This feature facilitates their transportation, and also does not require pouring a massive foundation.
- Ease of installation. There is no need to hire builders to erect the object. You can cope with this task yourself if you make the right calculations and use high-quality materials.
- Resistance to environmental factors. The blocks are not afraid of frost and dampness, fungus does not multiply in them, insects and rodents do not settle.
- Durability. The objects serve their owners for more than 100 years.
- Environmental safety, compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards. Polystyrene is a material that is used not only for making blocks, but also toys, yogurt cups. To ensure that the material does not contain harmful impurities, it must be purchased from manufacturers who provide quality certificates for their products.
- Ease of processing during finishing work. This is relevant when performing repairs and laying communications.
- It is possible to mill, plan and trim elements without using complex tools.
- High speed of construction.
- High strength. Every year this indicator only improves, so houses made of modern polystyrene concrete blocks do not crack even during multi-story construction.
- Ability to select blocks of different weights and strengths for the construction of load-bearing walls, lintels and partitions.
- Affordable price. The average cost of one element is 25-30 rubles, and one brick – 15 rubles. Moreover, each block can replace about 17 bricks or more. The benefit is obvious.
Because of its lightweight design and thermal insulation capabilities, polystyrene concrete is a popular choice for energy-efficient construction. Experts advise caution, though, due to possible negative effects, such as questions about environmental impact and long-term durability. In order to help readers make an informed decision regarding the suitability of polystyrene concrete for their projects, this article looks at both the obvious benefits and less evident drawbacks of the material. It also includes insights from industry experts in the construction industry.
Minuses
The drawbacks of polystyrene concrete blocks are the same as those of any building material:
- Difficulty in fixing fasteners. They occur when it is necessary to introduce a dowel or anchor. Without additional concrete pouring, they simply will not hold up. Therefore, you have to buy special fasteners and resort to strengthening the walls.
- Low block density, which negatively affects the process of installing windows and doors. During operation, they shrink and become loose, which requires additional reinforcement of the fittings.
- Poor adhesion of blocks to plaster. In order for it to hold firmly, the thickness of its layer should not be less than 15 mm on the outside of the building and 20 mm on the inside of the wall. Before applying it, the walls need additional treatment with compounds that improve adhesion. Sometimes before finishing work, the surface is lightly sanded with sandpaper.
- The shrinkage rate of polystyrene concrete blocks is higher than that of aerated concrete and foam concrete. Therefore, it is so important to choose blocks with an increased level of strength (structural elements) for the construction of load-bearing walls. Repairs begin only after the walls have completed shrinkage.
- Low fire resistance. Under the influence of high temperature, the filler of blocks in the form of granules is destroyed, and the surrounding concrete loses its strength. As a result, after a fire the property becomes uninhabitable.
- The need for timely exterior finishing. Although the blocks are warm, they absorb water, which, when frozen, destroys their structure. Over time, this leads to the appearance of cracks. That’s why it’s so important to carry out exterior finishing work.
- Low vapor permeability. The blocks do not “breathe”, which increases the level of humidity indoors. To solve this problem, additional ventilation shafts are installed.
Opinions
It is important to learn what owners and builders have to say about polystyrene concrete blocks before deciding to use them to construct a home.
Residents and home owners
Polystyrene concrete block houses are valued for their low cost by their owners. They are pleased that the cost of insulation is not included in the purchase price of the property.
Experience with operation demonstrates that the material, when combined with superior exterior finishing, is genuinely durable and does not collapse. Buildings for the summer and the year-round can be successfully constructed using it.
One of the drawbacks mentioned by many is the expense of purchasing an adhesive solution. In the walls, cold bridges will form if its layer is too thin. Furthermore, costly plaster with specific additives for improved adhesion must be used.
The reviews are all available to read here and here.
Builders
Because they’re easy to install, polystyrene concrete blocks are valued by builders. Since no time is lost while pouring the foundation, they show that the work is moving along swiftly. According to experts, the reason why people from Russia’s northern regions frequently order these kinds of houses is because they are extremely warm. Simultaneously, you can cut expenses by purchasing less insulation.
According to builders, the primary drawback is the blocks’ brittleness. Because of this feature, products must be handled and transported carefully.
Additional thoughts on concrete blocks made of polystyrene can be found here and here.
Advantages of Polystyrene Concrete | Disadvantages of Polystyrene Concrete |
1. Lightweight and Easy to Handle – Makes it easier for construction workers to transport and install. | 1. Vulnerable to Fire – Polystyrene can melt or burn, potentially causing safety concerns. |
2. Good Insulation Properties – Provides effective thermal insulation, helping to reduce heating and cooling costs. | 2. Environmental Impact – Production may involve chemicals and energy-intensive processes, impacting sustainability. |
3. Reduced Construction Time – Faster curing and setting times compared to traditional concrete. | 3. Structural Integrity – Lower strength compared to conventional concrete, requiring careful engineering. |
The use of polystyrene concrete in construction projects is appealing due to its numerous apparent advantages. Compared to conventional concrete, it is lightweight, which lowers structural load and facilitates handling and transportation. This is one of its main advantages. Because of this feature, construction projects can be completed more quickly because workers can handle larger blocks more effectively.
Furthermore, because the polystyrene beads in the mixture create air-filled voids, polystyrene concrete has excellent thermal insulation qualities. By assisting in the maintenance of interior temperatures, this insulation eventually lowers energy expenses. Furthermore, because of its ability to insulate sound, it can be used in places where reducing noise is crucial, like residential buildings close to busy roads.
Nevertheless, it’s important to take into account polystyrene concrete’s few unstated drawbacks in addition to its advantages. Its vulnerability to damage from UV exposure if improperly protected is one major cause for concern. This can eventually degrade if proper precautions aren’t taken, particularly in outdoor applications.
The environmental effects of polystyrene, which is made from non-renewable fossil fuels, represent another possible disadvantage. Despite recycling efforts, disposing of waste made of polystyrene remains difficult and raises questions about the material’s long-term environmental impact.
In conclusion, polystyrene concrete has unavoidable benefits like lightweight design, superior thermal and sound insulation, and ease of handling, but it also has unstated disadvantages like UV sensitivity and environmental concerns. Comprehending these facets is imperative in order to make knowledgeable choices regarding its application in construction endeavors, guaranteeing optimal efficiency and sustainability in building methodologies.