Should I Use Cement Blocks or Bricks?

Using cement blocks or bricks is an important choice. You have to decide which is better for your construction project, and that depends on several factors.

Using cement blocks or bricks?

The decision to use cement blocks or bricks for your project is dependent on a few different factors. We’ll outline the factors below and let you know how each material stacks up to the competition so you can decide which one is best for you!

Cost

Both bricks and blocks are fairly inexpensive. However, if you want to use specialty concrete blocks, they can become more expensive than bricks. But while the cost of the materials themselves is pretty equal, the cost of installing bricks can be more expensive than the cost of installing concrete blocks.

Durability

One of the biggest factors in favor of cement blocks’ durability is that they are fireproof. If fire resistance is important to your project, cement blocks will be much more fire resistant than bricks are.

Cement blocks also tend not to weather as fast and are stronger in the face of natural disasters. The cement will be stronger than bricks in tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, and more.

However, this does not mean that traditional red bricks aren’t durable. The bricks are also very strong, and can last for long periods of time without being maintained. Concrete blocks require more maintenance.

Sustainability

Cement blocks tend to be more sustainable than bricks. Cement blocks can be made from sustainable materials, and some even are LEED Certified. This certification means the blocks are environmentally friendly and are used by companies committed to sustainability. You can read more about them here.

Where does mortar factor in?

As it turns out, the mortar you use is highly important. When you’re choosing between bricks or cement blocks, it is also important to choose a strong mortar. The mortar is what holds together the blocks or bricks, so you need to choose a high quality one.

The strength of the blocks and bricks is determined more by which mortar you use than whether you use cement blocks or bricks. The mortar makes the building strong.

At Elston Materials, we offer several types of cement blocks for your construction needs. Because we are able to offer so many types, you can customize your project to your needs. If they are right for your project, check out our blocks here.