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These two types of bricks are the most commonly used for home building. Clay bricks, also known as red bricks, are the traditional choice. They’ve been around for centuries and are familiar to everyone. What are fly ash bricks? They are a newer alternative, made from industrial by-products, and are becoming popular for modern construction.
Both have their own strengths and limitations. By understanding the differences, you can make the best decision for your home.
Clay bricks have been used for centuries and are a familiar choice for many homeowners.
Great if you want a traditional material with a natural look.
A good choice when availability and familiarity matter.
Suitable for projects where the aesthetics of exposed brickwork are essential.
Uses topsoil and requires high energy to produce, so it has more environmental impact.
Comparatively lower strength than fly ash bricks.
Uneven sizes mean more plaster and mortar may be needed.
Higher wastage (up to 10%) during transport adds to the overall cost.
Fly ash bricks are made using industrial by-products like fly ash (from coal plants), cement, sand, and water. They are cured instead of fired, making them more eco-friendly and consistent.
Stronger and more uniform, making them suitable for modern load-bearing structures.
A smart choice if you want to save on mortar and plaster costs.
May not be as easily available in remote areas.
To understand their benefits better, let’s look at the key properties of fly ash bricks:
Strength: High compressive strength (90–100 kg/cm²) compared to clay bricks.
Durability: Resistant to dampness, erosion, and pests.
Uniform size and shape: Gives neat walls and reduces mortar use.
Low wastage: Less than 2% breakage during transport.
This table makes the difference between fly ash brick and red brick clear for any home builder.
Factor |
Clay Bricks (Red) |
Fly Ash Bricks |
Strength |
Moderate (30–35 kg/cm²) |
High (90–100 kg/cm²) |
Durability |
Good |
Excellent |
Water Absorption |
15–25% |
10–14% |
Wastage |
Up to 10% |
<2% |
Plastering |
Uneven walls |
Smooth walls |
Environmental Impact |
High (uses soil, pollutes) |
Low (eco-friendly) |
Cost Efficiency |
Higher overall |
Saves cost on mortar, plaster, and transport |
The answer depends on your priorities as a homeowner:
You prefer a traditional material that’s easy to source locally.
You want the natural look of red brick.
You’re building in areas where fly ash bricks aren’t easily available.
You want stronger and more uniform bricks for better structural stability.
You want to save on mortar and plastering costs.
Sustainability and eco-friendliness are important to you.
Also Read: Types of AAC Blocks
Every brick you choose today becomes part of your walls forever. That’s why this is not just about cost or convenience. It’s about the safety, comfort, and durability of your home for years to come.
Both clay bricks and fly ash bricks have their advantages. The right choice depends on what matters most to you: tradition and familiarity, or modern efficiency and eco-friendliness. Try a test on bricks to make the best decision for your home.
At UltraTech, we believe in helping every home builder make the best decision for their needs. Because you don’t build a home every day, you build it once. And the bricks you choose will carry that decision for a lifetime.
When it comes to choosing between fly ash bricks vs red bricks, it's all about finding the perfect fit for your project. It's essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each type of brick and review these by a test on bricks. After all, you want your construction project to be safe, long-lasting, and as efficient as possible. So, take the time to consider which type of brick suits your needs best. The more you know about your materials, the better equipped you'll be to make informed decisions about your construction project.
