- Initial price → cheapest per block.
- Hidden costs → constant repainting, fixing cracks, damp-proofing, and mould treatment.
- Lifetime expense → often more than double the initial savings.
Cost vs. Value: Choosing Between Manual, Machine, and Eco Blocks
At first, many builders and homeowners think only of upfront costs when choosing building blocks. But when you consider repairs, repainting, and maintenance, the true long-term cost tells a very different story.
Manual Cement Blocks
Low Upfront, High Lifetime Cost
Machine-Made Blocks
A Balanced Option
- Moderate upfront cost → more than manual but still affordable.
- Fewer repairs → stronger blocks mean fewer cracks and repainting jobs.
- Better lifetime value → still requires maintenance but less often than manual blocks.
CIEBs
Higher Upfront, Best Lifetime Value
- Initial cost → slightly higher than cement blocks.
- Savings → reduced need for cement mortar, no constant repainting, cooler homes (lower energy bills).
- Long-term → lowest lifetime cost with the highest comfort and durability.
Example Cost Breakdown (Over 10–15 Years)
stylus
Manual block house
high repair + paint costs
Machine block house
moderate repair cycle.
CIEB House
lowest repair and repainting needs.
Paying a little more upfront for machine-made blocks already saves money. But investing in CIEBs ensures you save the most in the long run.