In today’s fast-paced construction industry, finding innovative and reliable building materials is essential for achieving high-quality and efficient results. Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) panels have emerged as a revolutionary solution in modern architecture and engineering. These lightweight, strong, and versatile panels offer numerous advantages, making them a preferred choice for specifiers and applicators alike. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of AAC panels, their best uses, and how we can enhance them with premium internal and external finishes to fully support your projects.
What are AAC Panels?
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) panels are lightweight, precast building materials used in construction for decades. They are made from cement, lime, sand, water, and a small amount of aluminium powder as a foaming agent. The mixture is poured into moulds and cured in an autoclave with high-pressure steam. The result is a solid, yet lightweight, material with excellent thermal insulation and a high strength-to-weight ratio.
The Benefits of AAC Panels
Lightweight and Easy to Handle
One of the most significant advantages of AAC panels is their lightweight nature. They are approximately one-fifth the weight of traditional concrete, making them easier to transport, handle, and install.
This characteristic not only reduces labour costs but also minimises the need for heavy lifting equipment, making the construction process faster and more cost-effective.
Superior Thermal Insulation
AAC panels offer superior thermal insulation compared to conventional building materials. Their unique cellular structure traps air, providing excellent thermal resistance.
This property helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment, reducing the need for additional heating or cooling and leading to significant energy savings. As a result, AAC panels contribute to creating more energy-efficient and eco-friendly buildings.
Fire Resistance
Safety is paramount in any construction project, and AAC panels excel in this regard. They are highly fire-resistant, with a fire rating of up to four hours, providing crucial protection in the event of a fire. This high level of fire resistance ensures that buildings constructed with AAC panels meet stringent safety standards.
Acoustic Insulation
In urban environments, noise pollution can be a significant concern. AAC panels offer excellent acoustic insulation, making them an ideal choice for buildings in noisy areas. Their porous structure effectively dampens sound, creating a quieter and more comfortable living or working space.
Eco-Friendly
Sustainability is a core consideration in modern construction, and AAC panels align perfectly with this objective. They are made from natural, non-toxic raw materials and produce minimal waste during manufacturing. Furthermore, their energy-efficient properties contribute to lower carbon emissions over the building’s lifespan. By choosing AAC panels, you are opting for a more eco-friendly construction method.
Flexibility in Design
AAC panels offer exceptional flexibility in design, allowing architects and engineers to create innovative and aesthetically pleasing structures. They can be easily cut, shaped, and customised to fit various architectural styles and requirements. This flexibility makes AAC panels suitable for a wide range of applications, from residential homes to commercial buildings and industrial facilities.
Our Enhancement of AAC Panels
We understand the importance of providing comprehensive building solutions that elevate the trade and ensure the highest quality and performance. Our family-owned and operated business has a long-standing reputation for reliable and innovative products. We enhance AAC panels with our premium internal and external finishes, offering a complete solution for your construction projects.
The Reinforced Walsc AAC Panel: The Soul of Our Walsc AAC Panel Systems
The reinforced Walsc AAC panel and systems’ design versatility and flexibility provide better wall and flooring solutions for homeowners, developers, architects, and all building consultants. Building a high-quality, energy-efficient dream home is no longer a dream of the minority.
Walsc External Wall Cladding System 50:
- Uses 50mm reinforced Walsc AAC Panels.
- Panels are fixed to the structural frame with battens to form a cavity system.
- Panels can be installed vertically or horizontally, offering flexibility and faster installation.
- Provides a fire resistance level (FRL) of 120/120/120.
- Offers up to three times better thermal insulation than bricks.
Walsc External Wall Cladding System 75:
- Uses 75mm reinforced Nasahi AAC Panels installed vertically on continuous horizontal steel top hats fixed to the structural frame.
- Provides an FRL of 240/240/180.
- Offers up to four times better thermal insulation than bricks.
Walsc Inter-tenancy Wall System 50:
- It comprises a single leaf of 50mm reinforced Walsc AAC Panels separated by cavity and stud frames with insulation and plasterboard on each side.
- Suitable for duplex and townhouse buildings, with options for vertical or horizontal alignment.
Benefits include both continuous and discontinuous construction options, an FRL of up to 120/120/120, excellent acoustic performance (Rw+Ctr ≥ 50dB), a solid and secure party wall system, faster and more reliable construction, and greater cost-effectiveness compared to plasterboard shaft walls.
Our Coloured Render Systems
Our Coloured Render Systems are designed to enhance the aesthetics and durability of AAC panels. The application process is straightforward and ensures a high-quality finish:
- Sandcote HYDRATECH: This system involves applying Quick Render, followed by Texprime (tinted), and then Sandcote HYDRATECH. It offers superior weather resistance and a beautiful finish.
- Finecote: For a finer texture, Quick Render is followed by Texprime (tinted) and two coats of Finecote, finished with Repel or Clearcote for added protection.
- Quicksand Coarse: This involves Quick Render, Texprime (tinted), and Quicksand Coarse, finished with Repel or Clearcote for durability.
- Cerano: Quick Render followed by Texprime and two coats of Cerano, finished with Repel or Clearcote for a high-end finish.
Our Premium Texture and Membrane Systems
Our premium texture and membrane systems provide robust protection and aesthetic appeal for AAC panels:
- Armoured Tuscany Trowel On: Quick Render followed by Tuscany Trowel On (medium or coarse), and two coats of Armour.
- Armoured Sandcote: Quick Render, Sandcote, and two coats of Armour provide a durable and visually appealing finish.
- Armoured Acrylic Texture: Quick Render, Acrylic Texture (medium or coarse), and two coats of Armour offer excellent weather resistance and flexibility.
Rockcote Construction Systems
Introducing a lightweight (AAC and EPS), weatherproof external cladding system that offers comprehensive moisture management, insulation, and the stunning aesthetics of our seamless render, providing you with an all-in-one walling solution.
We understand the importance of first impressions. That’s why our Rockcote Construction Systems are designed to offer a complete solution for walls and floors. Paired with our high-quality internal and external finishes, your home will display true distinction.
Choose our superior and cost-effective wall and flooring solution for your next project.
Why Choose Rockcote Construction System?
- Lightweight & Strong: Our systems combine the lightweight nature of AAC and EPS with strong, durable finishes.
- NCC/BCP Compliant: Ensuring compliance with National Construction Code and Building Code of Practice standards.
- Cost-Effective and Energy-Efficient: Reduce construction time and costs while improving energy efficiency.
- Weatherproof: Comprehensive moisture management to protect your building.
- Seamless Render Finish: Achieve a high-quality, exterior rendered finish that stands out.
- Total Solution from Frame Out: Complete walling solution that simplifies the construction process.
- Design Flexibility: Suitable for a range of home types, build styles, and architectural designs.
First impressions count. That’s why our Rockcote Construction Systems have been designed to deliver a high-quality, exterior-rendered finish that makes a home truly distinctive.
Rockcote Construction Systems can be used for a range of different home types, build styles, and blocks. Entire homes, single-story (upper or lower), duplexes, and town
Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) panels represent a cutting-edge solution in modern architecture and engineering. Their lightweight nature, superior thermal insulation, fire resistance, acoustic insulation, eco-friendliness, and design flexibility make them an ideal choice for various construction projects. We enhance AAC panels with premium internal and external finishes, offering a complete building solution.
As a family-owned business, we are dedicated to providing reliable and innovative products for our customers. Our commitment to quality service and support ensures the success of your construction projects.
Choose us to transform your projects with cutting-edge AAC panels and experience the exceptional quality that sets us apart. For more information about AAC panels, visit our Rockcote Construction Systems page. Alternatively, head to our Trade Hub page for technical and specialist support.
Our Trade Hubs have everything you need to get the job done—from a full range of renders, textures, and paint to specialised tools and accessories.
Embrace the future of construction with AAC and enjoy its transformative benefits.
