Celcrete AAC Benefits
Strength
CELCRETE Panel is made from autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) and consists of sand, lime, cement, gypsum, water and an expansion agent. When processed this expands up to five times to achieve a weight approximately 1/5 that of standard concrete. Strength is also provided by corrosion protected internal steel reinforcing mesh and when installed as part of the CELCRETE Panel Veneer System is guaranteed to meet NZ Building Code requirements.
Moisture Protection
The cellular structures of CELCRETE panel are comprised of many independent, closed, tiny and dispersed air spaces. Such a unique structure creates minimal water absorption and when used in conjunction with our 50mm Panel Veneer System and Rendertek Plaster System all requirements of E2.3.2 are met.
Thermal Efficiency
The low thermal conductivity along with thermal mass gives CELCRETE AAC high R-values. These thermal efficiencies can greatly reduce energy costs and keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Sound Absorption & Insulation
CELCRETE AAC is proven to be an excellent acoustic insulation material by building a defense against external noise pollution. Its sound insulation value is greater that other materials of the same weight.
Fire Resistance
Manufactured from non-combustible material, in case of fire it does not release toxic gases and smokes or drip burning material. With an ignitability of zero it greatly delays the spread of fire. Overseas tests show fire resistance ratings in excess of those required for residential or normal commercial buildings. CELCRETE AAC block construction has a fire rating of four hours for a 150mm thick load-bearing wall, the same ratings as for 200mm thick reinforced panels. A 100mm thick wall panel without any additional finishing materials has a fire rating of three hours.
Durability
CELCRETE is extremely durable and surpasses the minimum life as required by the NZ Building Code. CELCRETE AAC is extremely low maintenance and will not warp, rust or rot. The exterior cladding isn’t susceptible to decay or inspect damage and is allergen-free. Its strength also gives greater resistance to impact damage, so it can withstand any likely impact under normal conditions. The CELCRETE Panel Veneer System has proven to be extremely robust and resilient on Christchurch houses since the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011.
Economics
CELCRETE AAC is an especially economical product to use in construction. There are less components and fewer construction steps when using this cladding system compared to other construction methods. Therefore economies can be made that will reduce overall construction costs. This is particularly true when a building is specifically designed in modules that accommodate the dimensions of the cladding product. That way, on-site cutting and wastage can be significantly reduced. This approach also adds to the speed and simplicity of construction, further reducing costs.
Environmental
CELCRETE AAC is an inert, natural and environmentally friendly construction material. Although it is made from minerals that are in abundant supply around the world, the manufacturing process makes very economic use of them and all trimming waste is recycled back into the production process.
There are no harmful pollutants generated by the production process, which is in itself very energy efficient.
Being inert the material is non-hazardous and does not emit any harmful gases or vapors.