project - Trademax Publications

BRICKS AND PAVING
Clay brick masonry’s
combination of benefits right
in line with Governments new
Human Settlements policy
In response to the challenge of the new Ministry of Human Settlements, to put into
effect its new housing policy that favours a holistic approach to housing the indigent
with a focus on the restoration of dignity, the creation of integrated communities and
sustainable development, this in lieu of ‘the most houses for the lowest cost per house’,
Corobrik commissioned WSP Green by Design to research which walling solutions/
construction methodologies as promoted and marketed in South Africa, provide(s) the
best balance between first cost, lifecycle cost, life embodied energy cost and people
upliftment, this in a way most appropriate for meeting the aspirational needs of those
living in disadvantaged communities.
The study was elaborate using computational modeling
and simulation methods to compare “through the wall”
concrete block as typically used in low cost house
construction, clay brick in two leaf and cavity walling
formats, and light steel frame building (LSFB) insulated
lightweight walling, the latter lightweight walling system type
building being chosen for its potential representivity of other
systems/technologies that use insulated lightweight panel type
external walling.
The study found:
• In each of the six climate zones, the clay brick masonry
house required the lowest heating energy per annum in
comparison with both concrete block walled and Light Steel
Frame Building insulated lightweight walled houses.
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SA Affordable Housing November/December 2009