Concrete blocks and bricks – they seem pretty similar apart from the size. Obviously concrete bricks are smaller than concrete blocks, but does this affect the way in which they can be used, or are they considered interchangeable?
Let’s find out.
How concrete blocks and bricks are similar
Both concrete blocks and bricks provide strong and sturdy masonry work, and both offer the following advantages that make then an ideal choice of building material:
- They offer high stability to a structure
- They have high tensile strength (the resistance of a material to breaking under tension)
- They are non-combustible and highly fire resistant
- They are highly resistant to weather extremes, natural disasters and pests
- They increase the thermal mass of a building
- They are a cost-effective method of building
Here’s how they differ.
While they are made from the same material and thus have many similarities, concrete blocks and bricks do differ in a variety of ways, such as these.
Weight
Concrete blocks are obviously going to be a lot heavier than concrete bricks, simply due to their size. Concrete blocks are produced using naturally dense aggregates, and are designed to be heavy and strong.
Cost
Due to their size and weight and the larger amount of raw materials they incorporate, concrete blocks are a little more expensive than concrete bricks; however both are still considered to be cost-effective given their durability and longevity.
Use
Concrete blocks and bricks are extremely versatile construction materials, and can serve a wide variety of building purposes.
Due to their density and strength, concrete blocks are for the most part used to build load-bearing walls and similar structures. They are extremely useful for buildings that require maximum strength and stability, such as high-rise buildings. They are regularly used for the construction of houses, schools and various other commercial projects. However, they can
also be used for smaller structures such as retaining walls, garden features, garden furniture and other landscaping projects.
Concrete bricks can also be used for load-bearing purposes, but generally not to the same degree as concrete blocks. They are also often used to build structures such as fences and garden walls.
Ease of construction
Concrete blocks are extensively used in building construction worldwide, due to the many advantages they offer. One point of difference between blocks and bricks is the quicker construction allowed by the use of concrete blocks. Given their larger size, a concrete block structure will come together more quickly than a concrete brick one.
Appearance
Concrete bricks can give a structure a smooth and aesthetic appearance, and create a very regular and uniform look. Due to their smaller size, a concrete brick structure looks more fine and intricate than a block one, which will give a more generous and extended appearance.
Which one should I choose?
Your choice of concrete block or brick will depend on the requirements of your project, as well as how you want it to look. If you need some advice, contact National Masonry, a leading manufacturer and reseller of concrete blocks and bricks throughout Australia here: https://www.nationalmasonry.com.au/.