- Cement blocks: Lower upfront price, widely available.
- CIEBs: Slightly higher material or labour cost, but no mortar required for laying (saves on cement).
CIEBs vs. Cement Blocks: A Long-Term Cost Comparison
Let’s break down the financial realities of building with cement blocks versus Compressed Interlocking Earth Blocks (CIEBs).
Durability Pays for Itself
Finishing Costs
- Cement blocks: Require plastering, rendering, and multiple coats of paint to seal against water and mould.
- CIEBs: Naturally smooth and dense, requiring little to no plaster. A simple thin render or breathable paint is enough.
Maintenance Over Time
- Cement blocks: Frequent repainting due to mould growth, cracks to be patched, damp-proofing needed.
- CIEBs: Resistant to water absorption, stay cooler in heat, and need less repainting.
Energy Costs
- Cement blocks: Poor thermal performance means higher reliance on fans or AC.
- CIEBs: Natural thermal mass keeps homes cooler in the day and warmer at night.
stylus
Conclusion
Over 20 years, CIEBs cost far less to maintain and live in, even if they are slightly more expensive upfront.
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