Energy efficiency of heavy clay products

Clay building materials, including masonry bricks, floor blocks, pavers and roof tiles, are strong, durable and reusable. 

Thanks to these qualities, they reduce consumption and optimise the overall energy efficiency of buildings. 

They achieve this in the following ways:

  • the thermal properties of clay masonry bricks and roof tiles reduce heating and cooling costs and ensure comfortable environments in all seasons;
  • ceramic ventilated façades create air chambers that reduce humidity, eliminate thermal bridges and improve sound absorption. 
  • clay brickwork provides effective insulation, ensuring long-lasting, maintenance-free solutions.

Safety, air quality and water efficiency

By incorporating clay building products and materials, buildings can significantly reduce their environmental impact in several ways.

Clay building products ensure better air quality because they do not emit toxic substances, resulting in healthier indoor environments and the well-being of inhabitants. 

Along with their significant energy savings, these materials also ensure greater safety in the event of fire or flooding. 

Benefits for the circular economy

According to the revised EPBD, new buildings must adopt the principles of the circular economy in order to meet sustainability requirements. Unlike the more familiar “cradle-to-grave” concept, the “cradle-to-cradle” approach promotes the reuse and recycling of building materials. Evaluating materials according to their potential for reuse and recyclability allows the useful lifespan of products to be extended rather than sending them to landfill.

Longevity and sustainability of buildings made from structural clay products

Given the increasing focus on raw materials savings, the revised EPBD requires thorough assessments to be carried out to determine the environmental and economic benefits of building projects. The proposal lays down guidelines for assessing the long-term performance of buildings and for making the best decisions in terms of sustainability. If incorporated in the construction stage, structural clay products help to create long-lasting buildings with a high level of performance over their entire lifecycle. The majority of clay product waste can also be recycled and reused in new construction projects. 

Clay products for more sustainable buildings

Clay products play an essential role in efforts to design increasingly sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. 

Clay products make a significant contribution to reducing the total energy consumption of buildings and improving their safety and indoor air quality. By adhering to the principles of the circular economy, it is possible to extend the lifespan of buildings and minimise construction material waste.