An overhead view of a group of eco-bricks side-by-side with a black tile wall

Eco-bricks recently have recently become a popular alternative to traditional tiles. The most prominent reason being their strength and environmental friendliness.

In addition, these bricks don’t require firing, which reduces carbon emissions and helps save the Earth.

There is a lot of debate about whether eco-bricks are cheaper than tiles.

Some people swear by the affordability and durability of eco-bricks, while others find that tiles are a more cost-effective option in the long run. 

So, which one is cheaper? 

Let’s take a closer look at the costs involved for both options.

Are Eco-Bricks Cheaper Than Tiles? 

Eco-bricks are made from recycled plastic bottles which don’t require firing, lowering production costs by 30%.

In addition, the cost of eco-brick materials is less than tiles and they are easier and faster to install, so the cost of labor is also lower. Hence, eco-bricks are typically cheaper than tiles.

To make one eco-brick, you need approximately 20 plastic bottles.

The cost of 20 plastic bottles varies depending on where you live and the type of bottle you use, but it generally falls between $0.50 and $0.70 per bottle.

So, the total cost of materials for one eco-brick is between $0.50 and $0.70.

On the other hand, tiles are made from various materials, including clay, sand, water, and minerals.

Therefore, the cost of tiles varies widely depending on the type of tile you choose and where you purchase them.

However, you can expect to pay somewhere between $0.50 and $15 per square foot of tile.

So, if you need 100 square feet of tile, the cost would be between $50 and $1500.

If you’re looking for an affordable and eco-friendly option for your next home improvement project, consider using eco-bricks instead of tiles.

You might be surprised at how much money you can save!

But what else should you know about eco-bricks before making the final decision?  

All You Need to Know About Eco-Bricks 

Eco-bricks may not be as commonly discussed as other green construction materials, but they are a clever solution to the waste problem.

They are a type of building material made from plastic waste, including water bottles, grocery bags, or plastic packaging.

Courtesy of Save Our Seas

Eco-bricks can be used to build homes, schools, and other structures. They are a great alternative to traditional building materials that often contain harmful chemicals and pollutants.

How fascinating is it to know that you can use recycled materials to create building blocks for your home? 

Well, these bricks are not only a great way to reuse materials that you would otherwise throw away, but they also have several benefits that can improve your quality of life.

Benefits of Using Eco-Bricks 

The numerous benefits offered by eco-brick construction include:

Environmental Benefit

One of the benefits of using these bricks is sustainability.

They are made from recycled materials like plastic bottles and Styrofoam, so they have lesser environmental impact than other bricks. 

A collection of plastic bottles for use in making eco-bricks

On the other hand, tiles are typically made from clay or ceramic, which require mining and other processes that can harm the environment.

Energy Efficiency 

Eco-bricks can be used to build more energy-efficient homes.

In addition, because they are made from recycled materials, they have a higher insulation value than traditional bricks. 

These bricks can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. As a result, you will be able to save money on your energy bills.

Durability 

Another reason to use this type of brick is that they are stronger and more durable than tiles. They are so strong that builders even use them to build homes in earthquake-prone areas!

In addition, these bricks are held together with mortar, making them less likely to crumble during an earthquake.

Since eco-bricks can withstand more weight and pressure, they have become an excellent option for construction projects.

On the contrary, tiles are prone to cracking and breaking, which can cause serious problems.

Fire Resistance

They are also fire-resistant, which is a crucial safety feature, and can help prevent fires from spreading, keeping people and the property safe.

On the contrary, tiles can easily catch fire and fan flames quickly. 

Ease of Maintenance

Another advantage of eco-bricks is that they are easy to maintain.

Tiles can be difficult to clean, as they often have grout lines that can trap dirt and bacteria.

However, eco-bricks are smooth and don’t have any nooks or crannies for dirt to hide in, making them much easier to keep clean.

Affordability 

As discussed, this brick type is an affordable option for construction projects.

They are typically much cheaper than tiles, making them ideal for those on a budget.

On the other hand, tiles can be pretty expensive, particularly if you need to purchase them in bulk.

A boy in the Philippines constructs a wall using eco-bricks
Courtesy of Ecobricks

Versatility 

Finally, eco-bricks are versatile. They can be used in various applications, from construction to decoration. Tiles are typically only used for flooring or walls, limiting their usefulness.

As you can see, there are many reasons why eco-bricks are better than tiles. If you’re looking for a durable, affordable, and versatile building material, this one is your best bet! 

However, choosing eco-bricks for your construction project may have some drawbacks. 

Drawbacks of Using Eco-Bricks 

Despite all the advantages, eco-brick construction has a few downsides, including: 

Lack of Accessibility 

One of the most significant disadvantages of eco-bricks is that they can be challenging to find.

It may be challenging to locate a store that sells them, especially for people in rural areas.

In addition, even if you do find a store that sells them, it may not have the specific type or size you need. 

They Don’t Decompose

While eco-bricks are a great way to reduce your environmental impact, they won’t eliminate your waste. 

These bricks are made of plastic, which comes from oil (a fossil fuel), so they don’t decompose.

Upon melting, they may release harmful gasses into the air, affecting your health and the environment. Thus, you’ll still need to find a way to dispose of the bricks later.

A bulldozer pushes a sea of plastic waste in a landfill

Now that you know the pros and cons of eco-bricks, you can decide whether or not they’re right for you.

If you choose to use them, do your research and purchase from a reputable source. 

And remember, even if you use eco-bricks, you’ll still need to find an environmentally-friendly way to dispose of your waste.

Can You Make Eco-Bricks as a DIY Project? 

Eco-bricks are made by compressing plastic waste and soil into a brick-like shape. The ratio of plastic to soil varies depending on the type of eco-brick you want to make. 

For example, if you want to make an eco-brick that is strong and durable, you will need to use more plastic.

On the other hand, if you wish to make a lighter and more flexible eco-brick, you will need to use less plastic.

To make an eco-brick, start by collecting plastic waste and soil.

Once you have collected enough materials, compress them into a brick-like shape using a manual or hydraulic press. Then, let it cure for 24 hours before using it in your construction or decoration project.

10 Creative Eco-Brick Ideas For Your Home Project

Eco-bricks can be used in a variety of ways. With a little bit of creativity, you can create something unique!

A couple sits on chairs around a table, all constructed from eco-bricks
Courtesy of Seal Rescue Ireland

Idea #1

Do you have an unused corner in your yard? Transform it into a beautiful garden by building a raised bed of eco-bricks.

You can plant flowers, vegetables, or herbs in your new garden.

Idea #2

You may also use eco-bricks to create pathways or walkways in your yard. They will add some interest to your landscape and help you save money on paving materials.

Idea #3

Eco-bricks can also be used to build walls or partitions in your home.

It is a great way to add privacy to your space or create a room divider.

Idea #4

Build a privacy screen out of eco-bricks if you’re tired of seeing your neighbor’s trash cans. They will block the view of the cans and create a more aesthetically pleasing space.

Idea #5

Eco-bricks also make great shelving or storage solutions, allowing you to get organized and reduce clutter in your home.

Idea #6

If you have an old fence that needs repair, eco-bricks are a great way to fix it.

Stack the bricks on top of each other and secure them with wire or string to create a sturdy wall that will last for years.

Idea #7

Is your patio looking a little worn down? Give it a facelift by using eco-bricks to create a border around the edge, achieving a clean and polished look.

Idea #8

Looking for a way to add some color to your yard? Paint eco-bricks bright colors and use them to build a border around your flower bed.

They will add a pop of color and make your garden stand out.

Idea #9

Do you have an old table that needs a makeover? Create a mosaic tabletop by gluing eco-bricks to the surface. They will give your table a unique and one-of-a-kind look.

Idea #10

Are you tired of your plain old mailbox? Spruce it up by building a new one out of eco-bricks to add curb appeal to your home and make your mailbox the envy of the neighborhood.

So, there you have it! These are just a few ways you can use eco-bricks in your home.

Now, get creative and see what you can build!

Final Word

Eco-bricks are an exciting development in sustainable construction and have the potential to revolutionize the way we build.

If you’re looking for a sustainable flooring material that is durable and affordable or want to elevate the look and feel of your home, look no further than eco-bricks! 

They are made from recycled materials, making an excellent choice for those who want to reduce their environmental impact.

Eco-bricks are also cheaper than tiles and can last for many years without showing signs of wear and tear.

So what are you waiting for?

Start thinking of ways to use them in your home today!

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