Abstract
Residential construction materials have undergone a notable evolution within the construction sector. This paper extensively reviews various types of bricks and building materials commonly employed in house construction, categorizing them into classifications such as typical clay, concrete, fly ash, and new materials such as aerated concrete and recycled bricks. The study thoroughly investigates the mechanical, thermal, and environmental potentials of each material, also considering auxiliary building materials like mortar, cement, and bio-materials, which play vital roles in house construction. Its primary objective is to offer valuable insights to architects, engineers, builders, and researchers to facilitate informed decision-making in residential construction projects. It also considers factors such as sustainability and local availability. The research identifies Cellular Lightweight Concrete (CLC) bricks as the optimal choice for residential construction, given their compressive strength of up to 30–40% more than traditional bricks, along with excellent lateral load capacity and displacement ductility, also making them suitable for constructing partition walls. Modifications in composition, such as incorporating coconut and basalt fibres, result in a notable enhancement of approximately 17.4% in thermal insulation with minimal impact on thermal degradation. Ultimately, this review serves as a valuable reference for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of the diverse options available in bricks and building materials for modern residential construction.
