Why lightweight concrete is revolutionising cladding and flooring for modern buildings
Written by
24 October 2024
•
3 min read
AAC lightweight concrete is a revolutionary material used for cladding, intertenancy and flooring systems due to its thermal insulation properties, non-combustible qualities and fantastic acoustic benefits. Because of its light weight it means less structural reinforcing, improved sustainability, thermal and acoustic performance compared to other construction products.
Here, we speak to Resene Construction Systems general manager Mike Olds who shares the benefits of their INTEGRA AAC lightweight concrete and how it is revolutionising modern buildings.
The benefits of lightweight concrete
INTEGRA lightweight concrete panels from Resene Construction Systems can be utilised in multiple ways, including as substrate for your exterior cladding that is then plastered and painted, intertenancy walls in multi unit developments to provide premium acoustic and fire performance, and as an acoustic flooring substrate.
They’re manufactured to contain millions of tiny air pockets that enhance the thermal properties and add to the thermal performance of the cladding system, as well as excellent acoustic benefits.
“Due to the materials density and cellular structure of INTEGRA, the thermal and acoustic performance is enhanced,” shares Mike. “Our standard intertenancy walling system with 10mm plasterboard achieves an acoustic rating of STC 64 which is nine points above the minimum STC55 required by the NZ Building Code.”
Primarily made up of sand, cement and lime, lightweight concrete is a third lighter than standard concrete, making it far easier to transport, handle and manage on site.
“The material has a low wastage, with any waste material being crushed and utilised as a fill on or off site,” shares Mike. “INTEGRA AAC is made from natural materials that are abundant and readily available, such as water, quartz sand, and lime, and is manufactured in a closed cycle, so less energy is used here than for building materials with comparable properties.”
The INTEGRA AAC product is cured and hardened in autoclaves producing water vapour during the process which is recycled in a closed system with up to 85% reused throughout the manufacturing facility.
“INTEGRA AAC is also completely free of pollutants and therefore cannot emit any emissions that are harmful to health – even in the event of fire or exposure to water, no harmful substances are produced,” shares Mike.
Shaping the future of modern buildings
Recently, Resene Construction Systems used INTEGRA AAC for a private multiunit residential project in Takapuna, Auckland. The lightweight concrete was fitted over a cavity, plastered and finished with premium Resene X-200.
“The result is a contemporary project with the aesthetic benefits of concrete-conducive plaster finishes and renders, but without the weight.”
The need to reduce costs and streamline timelines in construction whilst providing a durable and premium exterior finish are features that property owners should not compromise on.
Mike says INTEGRA AAC lightweight concrete systems are likely to shape the future of modern building design.
“This material is adaptable, readily available and the product has multiple benefits – not many products are as diverse in terms of application and performance as INTEGRA AAC lightweight concrete.”
Explore projects using lightweight concrete solutions from Resene Construction Systems