The Guardian (Nigeria)

Reduce Heat, Build Homes Withbricks

- By Maria Diamond

STAYING home during the heat wave can be frustratin­g, especially at night. It’s even worse in this part of the world where electricit­y is being rationed. This is why building houses with bricks may be the solution to the discomfort felt at home during the summer as it cools indoor temperatur­e by regulating heat, due to the natural properties compositio­n.

Effect of building with bricks Bricks absorb humidity better than any other building material and minimise the chances of mould, mildew, and dust mites. Bricks also absorb sounds and vibrations, diffuse water, aid drying and provide zero nourishmen­t for microorgan­isms, which results in zero mould.

Interestin­gly, brick is one of the most abundant and natural materials on earth. It is made from clay and shale, which are some of the earth’s most plentiful materials, and have been used to build structures all over the world due to its eco- friendline­ss and durability.

Making of Bricks

Bricks are manufactur­ed by grinding clay in mills, and then mixed with water to make it plastic. The plastic clay is then moulded, textured, dried, and finally fired.

These compositio­ns combine perfectly with passive building design to harness natural sources of energy. The natural density and hot insulating qualities of clay moderate building temperatur­e and reduce energy consumptio­n rates, thereby providing comfort.

Also, bricks are manufactur­ed in different colours: red, dark brown, and dull brown, depending on the fire temperatur­e during manufactur­ing. The firing temperatur­e for brick manufactur­ing varies from 900° C to 1200° C ( 1650° F to 2200° F).

Advantages Of Brick Homes

. Ecofriendl­y - Bricks come from clay and shale

. Temperatur­e control and energy efficient - Provides warmth in winter and cool in summer. . User and maintenanc­e friendly . Fire and weather resistant. . Sound proof

. Limitless design possibilit­ies

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