Comparision of the direct costs between the constructive processes using reinforced concrete and structural mansory with ceramics and concrete block - case study

The housing deficit in Brazil and the government openness to home financing have increased investment by construction companies in the construction of social housing. Structural masonry has become a great option as it is a fast and economical construction process. Through a case study, it was compared the costs of a group of services in each following construction processes: reinforced concrete with ceramic masonry blocks, structural masonry with concrete blocks and structural masonry with ceramic blocks. The services evaluated were: formwork/stanchions, steel, concrete/grout, masonry blocks and coating. It was observed an economy, regarding costs, of structural masonry with concrete blocks; having a total difference of 17% when compared with the reinforced concrete constructive process. The structural masonry with ceramic blocks resulted in a 7% cost reduction when compared to the reinforced concrete structure