What is flyash bricks?

🧱 What Are Fly Ash Bricks?

Let me explain it simply. Fly ash also called flue ash. It is a fine powder that comes from burning coal in big power plants.

When coal is burned to produce electricity and tiny particles from the burnt coal get carried out with the smoke (also called flue gases). These tiny particles are collected and that collected powder is what we call fly ash.

Fly ash bricks are made using a combination of fly ash (a byproduct of coal combustion), water, quicklime or lime sludge, cement, aluminum powder, and gypsum.

These bricks are machine made. So these bricks are in uniform size and shape.

Since fly ash bricks are uniform size of bricks, mortar required for joints and plaster reduces comparatively. 

Flyash bricks are lighter and stronger than clay bricks(red bricks). As fly ash bricks attains high strength, no breakage or wastage during transportation and usage.

✅ Advantages of flyash bricks

Here’s why I personally think fly ash bricks are a good choice:

1. Lightweight: Fly ash bricks reduces dead load on structures due to light weight.
2. Cost Effective: Cost efficient compared to clay bricks.
3. Available All Year: Even during rainy seasons when clay bricks might be hard to get fly ash bricks are easily available.
4. Covers More Area: Fly ash brick covers more space than a traditional clay brick.
5. Strong and Durable: These bricks don’t break easily while transporting or working on site.
6. Less Mortar Needed: Since they are uniform in size you use less mortar for joints and plastering.
7. No Soaking Required: You don’t need to soak them in water before use. Just sprinkle a little water before using is enough.
8. Less Water Seepage: They resist water better. Also helps in reducing dampness inside walls.
9. Fire Resistant: They offer better protection against fire compared to many other types of bricks.

⚠️Disadvantages of flyash bricks

• Heat: Compared to red bricks fly ash bricks keeps the atmospheric heat within the room.
• Quality Variance: Only fly ash from certain manufactures are good and suitable for construction.
• Material Quality: If low-quality fly ash is used, it could affect the strength of the bricks.
• Size Limitations: Some places may have limited size options available in these bricks.

🆚Comparison of fly ash bricks and clay bricks(red bricks)

1. Fly ash bricks are always made using machine molds therefore they are uniform in size whereas clay bricks are hand made and uneven in size.
2. Fly ash bricks are lighter than clay bricks.
3. Comparatively no wastage while using fly ash bricks.
4. Cost of fly ash brick is less than cost of clay bricks.
5. They can absorb more vibration then clay bricks.

How Are Fly Ash Bricks Made?

Let me tell you through the process so you can understand how these bricks are made:

• By collecting fly ash from thermal power plants. Then it is added with cement or lime, a bit of gypsum, and water.
• All these materials are mixed thoroughly. It’s important that the mixture is even so that every brick has the same quality.
• The mixture is then fed into a hydraulic or manual brick-making machine. The machine presses it into the standard shape and size.
• Once molded using machines, the bricks are cured usually by keeping them in water tanks or steam chambers for 7 to 28 days. This step makes them strong and durable.
• After curing, the bricks are dried and packed. Then they are ready to be delivered to construction sites like yours.

As machines are used in most steps, the bricks come out consistent size and smooth. Which makes construction work easier and faster.

Is it Cost Effective to Use Fly Ash Bricks?

Are fly ash bricks cheaper than red bricks?

I often get this question from homeowners And the answer is yes in many ways.

• Since fly ash is a waste material it is usually cheaper.
• These bricks are uniform in shape. So you use less mortar and plaster to get a neat finish.
• They are stronger and more durable. So fewer bricks break during transport and handling.
• Masons love working with these because walls go up quicker.
• Unlike red bricks that need soaking before use. Fly ash bricks only need light sprinkling.

Using flyash bricks will help in saving your overall construction budget.

How Much Do Fly Ash Bricks Cost in Tamil Nadu (2025)?

Prices can vary, but here’s a general idea to help you plan your budget:

Standard Size Brick (230x110x75mm): ₹5 to ₹8 per brick

For Comparison, Clay Bricks: ₹7 to ₹10 per brick

If you are buying more quantity you could save a little of the cost per brick. Also check if delivery charges apply based on your location.

Are Fly Ash Bricks Safe and Durable?

Absolutely. When manufactured properly, fly ash bricks are safe, strong, and long lasting. Key features include:

1. Suitable for both load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls.
2. Excellent resistance to high temperatures.
3. Less water absorption hence reduced chances of water seepage.
4. Being inorganic, they are not prone to termite attacks.
5. Uniform size reduces cracks in plastering.
6. Fly ash bricks are widely accepted in both residential and commercial buildings due to their reliability.

Where Can You Use Fly Ash Bricks in Your House?

These bricks can be used almost anywhere:

• Outer Walls: They hold up well with proper plastering.
• Inside Walls: The finish is smooth, and painting is easier.
• Partition Walls: They are lighter, they are great for partition sections.
• Boundary Walls: Durable and clean-looking.
• Septic Tanks & Water Tanks: Their low water absorption is a plus here.

However for load bearing walls, it is best to check with your engineer. Not all fly ash bricks are designed to carry heavy loads. So choose the right one with engineers advice.

Tips for House Owners Before Buying Fly Ash Bricks

To make sure you get good-quality bricks for your home:

• Ask for Strength Test Results: Good quality bricks should meet the minimum compressive strength.
• Check if Properly Cured: Properly cured bricks are stronger. Don’t buy freshly made bricks that haven’t been cured well.
• Look at the Size and Shape: All bricks must be in uniform size and shape.
• Check the Finish: A smooth finish is good for plastering.
• Buy from Trusted Suppliers: Make sure the manufacturer is known for quality.

Taking these small steps can help you avoid problems later.

Final verdict

Fly ash bricks are also said to be cement bricks which are widely used in construction as a replacement for red clay bricks.

It is affordable and available all seasons at standard cost.

Flyash bricks are a good choice for house owners who want to save some money and build with quality bricks. They’re strong, uniform and long lasting.

If you are planning your home construction, definitely consider using fly ash bricks. And if you have questions, feel free to ask your engineer, or even your supplier.

Making an informed decision now can save you time and money later!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)