There are several main differences between clay bricks and concrete blocks, in terms of composition and usage. As a building material, they should be carefully selected according to the type of project and the intended use of the building. In this article, we break down the benefits of each and explore which might be the right choice for your construction needs.
The differences between bricks and solid concrete blocks
Bricks and concrete blocks are made from different raw materials, meaning they have different structural compositions. Brick is made up of sand, lime and concrete materials, while concrete blocks are produced from aggregate consisting of crushed sand or stone.
Concrete blocks are significantly larger than traditional bricks, which can make construction faster as fewer units are required. However, their increased size also makes them heavier, meaning more robust handling and equipment might be necessary on site.
Concrete blocks have a much higher water resistance than bricks, and their compressive strength is higher. Concrete has a shorter life than brick, though it still gives efficient results for up to 100 years. It is also incredible durable and can be painted more easily than brick, which secretes metallic salts that can cause paint to peel off.
Brick, on the other hand, has been used for centuries and is renowned for its longevity, with many brick buildings lasting hundreds of years. Bricks are less prone to weathering and retain their appearance over time, making them a popular choice for traditional or aesthetic builds.
The Advantages of Solid Concrete Blocks
One of the standout advantages of solid concrete blocks is their outstanding fire resistance and the very highest fire safety rating. This makes them especially valuable for buildings where fire safety is a priority, such as commercial spaces or high-occupancy residential areas.
In addition, solid concrete blocks are favoured for their thermal efficiency and sound insulation. This means they can help keep indoor spaces warmer in winter, cooler in summer, and quieter year-round. These properties make concrete blocks a versatile and energy-efficient choice for modern construction projects.
Environmental considerations
Concrete blocks are often viewed as more environmentally sustainable than bricks because they require less energy to produce. Advances in manufacturing processes have also made it possible to incorporate recycled materials into concrete blocks, further reducing their environmental footprint.
Ease of installation and maintenance
Solid concrete blocks are easier to install and require less mortar compared to bricks. Their uniform size and shape simplify the construction process, saving time and labour costs. Moreover, concrete blocks can be painted easily, offering design flexibility, whereas bricks tend to secrete metallic salts that can cause paint to peel over time.
Which is better?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as the right choice depends on the specific requirements of your project. For instance:
- If durability and aesthetic appeal are priorities, bricks may be the preferred option. They offer a timeless appearance and exceptional longevity, making them ideal for heritage buildings or projects where visual impact matters.
- If fire resistance, thermal efficiency, and sound insulation are critical, solid concrete blocks could be the better choice. Concrete blocks also provide greater flexibility for custom finishes, as they can be painted more easily than bricks.
It’s important to weigh the needs of your project, including cost, design, and performance, before making a decision.
About our solid concrete blocks
At Wright Readymix, we supply high-strength 100mm 7.3N solid concrete blocks for a variety of construction applications, including:
- Cavity and solid walls
- Load-bearing structures
- Solid partitions
- Columns
- Block and beam flooring
Our concrete blocks have a tolerance of D1, a mean compressive strength of 3.6–30N/mm² (unit strength), and a shear bond strength of 0.15N/mm² (tabulated value). With a pack size of 88, they are available for delivery or collection from our concrete plant in Avonmouth, where they are manufactured.
Our solid concrete blocks are not only robust and versatile but also compliant with industry standards, ensuring peace of mind for your construction projects. Whether you're working on a small-scale residential build or a large commercial project, our blocks provide a reliable and efficient solution.
Find out more
To learn more about our solid concrete blocks or to place an order, please don't hesitate to contact us today on today on 0117 958 2090.