Building with Confidence in the Philippines
Choosing the right size of AAC (Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) blocks is a critical step for Filipino homeowners and contractors. While the 100mm thickness is the standard go-to for most residential exterior walls, opting for custom sizes can solve specific architectural challenges. For instance, using a 75mm block for interior partitions in a condo unit in Metro Manila can actually provide more usable floor area while maintaining better sound insulation than traditional hollow blocks.
One thing you should never overlook is the quality of your thin-bed mortar. In our local climate, humidity can affect how cement cures. AAC blocks are porous; if you use a standard sand-and-gravel mix, the block will suck the moisture out of the cement too fast, leading to structural cracks. Always stick to the recommended 3mm adhesive layer. It might look thin, but its bonding strength is specifically engineered for the cellular structure of the Hebel block.
Lastly, always factor in "waste." In any Philippine job site, blocks will be cut to fit around electrical conduits and plumbing. A 5% waste factor is usually enough, but if your wall has many complex corners or small window openings, you might want to bump that estimate to 10% to avoid costly re-delivery fees from your hardware supplier.
