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Guide
Aircrete vs dense concrete blocks
The differences between aircrete, medium dense and dense concrete blocks, and which to choose for inner leaves, partitions, foundations and load-bearing walls.
The main types
- Aircrete (aerated) blocks: light, easy to cut and chase, and good insulators. Common for the inner leaf of cavity walls and internal partitions.
- Medium dense blocks: a middle ground of weight, strength and sound insulation.
- Dense concrete blocks: heavy and strong, with good sound insulation, used for load-bearing walls, separating walls and below ground.
- Trench blocks: wide blocks used to build foundations up to ground level quickly.
Strength ratings
Blocks are sold by compressive strength, such as 3.6 N/mm² or 7.3 N/mm². Higher figures carry more load. The strength you need depends on the wall and is set by the design or building control, so check before substituting one block for another.
Choosing for the job
For internal partitions, aircrete is usually quicker and lighter to work with. Where sound insulation between rooms or homes matters, or where the wall carries heavy loads, denser blocks are the better choice. Below ground, use blocks specified as suitable for foundations.
Frequently asked questions
Are aircrete blocks strong enough for load-bearing walls?
Many are used in load-bearing walls in houses, but the strength needed depends on the design. Check the specified strength before choosing.
Which blocks are best for sound insulation?
Denser blocks generally reduce sound transfer more, which is why they are often used for walls between rooms or homes.
How many blocks per square metre?
About 10 standard 440 × 215 mm blocks per square metre of wall. Our block calculator works out the full quantity including mortar.