1. Non-Combustible & Fire-Resistant by Design
Aerostone, made from Hebel (autoclaved aerated concrete), is inherently non-combustible. It achieves Fire Resistance Levels (FRLs) of 60 to 240 minutes—rigorously tested and proven—making it exceptionally safe compared to polystyrene-based mouldings.
By contrast, Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is inherently combustible, with ignition temperatures between 360–400 °C. It burns readily when exposed to flames, producing dense smoke and toxic gases like carbon monoxide and styrene vapours—unless specially treated or shielded.
2. Built for Australia’s Rough Conditions
Aerostone is engineered to withstand bushfires, storms, and extreme heat—common challenges in Australia. Unlike polystyrene or polyurethane alternatives, it remains structurally sound and durable, reducing maintenance and replacement over time.
3. Solid Build Without the Bulk
Despite its strength and durability, Aerostone is surprisingly lightweight—about one-fifth the weight of traditional concrete—yet does not compromise on solidity or aesthetics. It cuts and installs like a breeze, offering more design flexibility and ease on the job.
4. Eco-Friendly Choice
Made from aerated concrete, Aerostone mouldings boast approximately 30% lower environmental impact than concrete and brick alternatives. Plus, they generate up to 55% fewer greenhouse emissions during manufacturing—making them a greener option.
5. Long-Term Value & Warranty
Aerostone mouldings carry a 7-year warranty and outlast polystyrene alternatives by a considerable margin. Their robustness, combined with quick installation (thanks to proprietary shaping technology), make them a high-value, low-headache choice.
6. Compliance with Modern Fire Codes
Since May 1, 2020, NCC (National Construction Code) Volume 2 has tightened fire safety requirements for architectural mouldings. Aerostone, being non-combustible, is a perfect fit for these stricter guidelines—particularly for external features near boundary lines.
Summary Table: Aerostone vs. Polystyrene
| Feature | Aerostone (Hebel-based) | Polystyrene (EPS/XPS) |
|---|---|---|
| Combustibility | Non-combustible, FRLs from 60–240 min | Combustible; needs treatments/barriers |
| Fire Performance | Excellent inherent fire resistance | Low unless treated; produces smoke & toxins |
| Durability | Built to last in harsh conditions | Degrades; prone to replacement |
| Weight vs. Solidity | Lightweight yet solid and robust | Lightweight but less durable |
| Environmental Impact | Lower emissions and eco-friendly | Petroleum-based, higher footprint |
| Warranty & Longevity | 7-year warranty, high longevity | Often shorter lifespan |
| NCC Code Compliance | Fully compliant with current standards | Riskier without extra safeguards |
Planning to build close to your boundary?
NCC Guidelines on Boundary Setbacks (2025 Context)
Class 1 and Class 10a Buildings (e.g., homes and minor structures)
- Under NCC 2022 (Volume Two, Housing Provisions)—particularly Part 9.2 Fire separation of external walls—there are specific requirements:
- External walls (and any openings) must comply with fire-resisting standards (e.g., have an FRL) if they are within 900mm of an allotment boundary (excluding boundaries adjacent to roads or public spaces) (Australian Building Codes Board, National Construction Code).
- The same rule applies for walls located within 1.8 m of another building on the same property (Australian Building Codes Board, National Construction Code).
How This Affects Material Choices
- If you’re placing external walls or architectural features closer than 900 mm to the boundary, those elements must be non-combustible or have a fire-resistance rating (FRL).
- Polystyrene, being combustible unless specially treated, would not meet this requirement, meaning:
- Either you’d have to increase the setback distance,
- Or use protective measures like non-combustible cladding, or
- Better yet, choose a non-combustible material from the start.
- Aerostone, on the other hand, is inherently non-combustible and is fully compliant with these fire separation provisions when used near boundaries.
Summary Table
| Scenario | Requirement under NCC ≥2022 | Compatible with Polystyrene? | Compatible with Aerostone? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall/opening within 900 mm of boundary | Must be fire-resisting or non-combustible (FRL compliant) (Australian Building Codes Board) | Not unless treated or protected | Yes, inherently non-combustible |
| Wall within 1.8 m of another building | Same requirement applies (Australian Building Codes Board) | Not unless treated or protected | Yes |
Why Aerostone Wins for Boundary Closer Builds
- Direct advantage: You can build closer to the property line—within that 900 mm boundary—without needing additional protection or treatments.
- Compliance assurance: Being non-combustible by nature, Aerostone meets NCC fire-safety requirements without complex workarounds.
- Design flexibility: Particularly in higher-density or infill developments where plot sizes are tight, Aerostone allows safer and simpler boundary-adjacent construction.
