Are you thinking about using laterite bricks for construction? Wait! Though laterite bricks have been used by humankind for centuries, they have got disadvantages too. It is widely used as the laterite stones are easy to mine. But the problem is that it becomes harder once dried in the air. Not only this, read on to know more problems you might face while using laterite bricks.
Why you should not use laterite bricks for construction?
1. Incompatible with many modern building techniques
As these bricks are mostly used during ancient times, it is incompatible with many modern building techniques and materials.
2. High-rise buildings can’t be built due to low strength
The strength of laterite bricks is about 5 to 10 times lesser than that of concrete bricks. Stress tests on laterite bricks show that it can take up to 2 MPa of pressure while baked laterites can go up to 5.
On the other hand, concrete bricks can handle pressure ranging from 15 to 25 and so much more if it is reinforced with steel. This makes concrete buildings stronger. This proves that we can’t use laterite to create high rise buildings or buildings more than 3 stories.
3. Less resistant to natural forces like earthquakes and rainfall
Laterite homes are easily destroyed when earthquakes happen. Also, they have inferior interlocking and prone to breakage while comparing with concrete bricks. Laterite bricks can’t be reinforced by steel while concrete bricks can be. All these make concrete constructions much more earthquake-proof than laterite constructions.
4. Difficult to withstand heavy rainfall due to high moisture retention.
The laterite stones have high absorption when it comes to water. During heavy rainfall, the strength of the constructions will dip even further. So, we won’t be able to predict structural damages to the buildings.
5. Prone to acidic leaching
Laterite stones are also highly acidic in nature and are susceptible to leaching. This leads to corrosion of other building materials such as paint and needs. Hence, we should handle with care.
6. Lack of availability
These bricks are not available in desert regions like the Middle East and Qatar. Therefore, you have to import these bricks from elsewhere which increases the cost of these bricks. Also, be aware that the finish of the walls with laterites is ancient and rugged. This may not be aesthetically pleasing for everyone.
Hence, all of these disadvantages mean a higher life cycle cost for the Laterite bricks. While laterites have served humans quite well in the field of construction, it is no longer viable today as better and stronger bricks are available to us.
Choose wisely 🙂
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