Pros:

  • Excellent drainage and permeability — reduces surface runoff, flooding, and ponding.
  • Lower material costs (less cement, no sand needed).
  • Lightweight — easier handling and reduced foundation loads.
  • Lower drying shrinkage.
  • Better thermal insulation.
  • Environmentally friendlier in some ways (conserves aggregates, aids stormwater management).

Cons:

  • Lower compressive, flexural, and bond strength — limits structural use.
  • High permeability can allow water ingress (not weathertight without coatings/plaster).
  • Poor freeze-thaw resistance without air-entraining admixtures.
  • Lower workability and requires careful placement.
  • Not ideal for reinforcement due to low bond strength.