Concrete blocks come in two basic forms. Choosing between them — and against AAC — depends on what the wall has to do.
Comparison
| Hollow block | Solid block | AAC (for reference) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | IS 2185 (Part 1) | IS 2185 (Part 1) | IS 2185 (Part 3) |
| Weight | Lighter | Heaviest | Lightest |
| Strength per unit | Moderate; can be grouted | High | Lower, ample for infill |
| Insulation | Moderate | Poor | High |
| Services in wall | Through cavities | Chasing | Chasing |
| Best use | Walls, reinforced masonry | Compound and retaining walls | Infill walls in RCC frames |
Where Each Fits
- Hollow blocks: boundary walls, reinforced masonry with grouted cores, and walls where weight matters but AAC is not available.
- Solid blocks: compound walls, retaining walls, plinth masonry, heavy fixings.
- AAC: the walls you live behind in an RCC frame.
The Short Version
Hollow for lighter or reinforced block walls, solid for robust boundary and retaining walls, AAC for the comfortable, lightweight walls of the house itself.
