Over the years the type and the nature of construction materials used in masonry structures has really evolved. Several examples of new-age materials used in home construction include:
- Autoclaved Aerated Concrete blocks.
- Insulated Concrete Forms or ICFs
- Geopolymer bricks
However, the popular building materials in use today in masonry include; bricks and cement blocks. However, the concept of masonry circles and contentious debate on which is best, brick or cement blocks has re emerged.
While there are those in support of cement blocks as more appropriate there are equal if not more supporters for bricks. So which one is better? In some cases it may be, while in others it may simply depend upon which is best for you, looking at all the advantages and disadvantages of each. We should however allow ourselves to explain further more in this blog.
Difference between Bricks and Cement Blocks in Masonry
The two concrete bricks and red bricks are two popular building materials which people have arguments on. Each of them has its benefits of use and the problems that may occur during utilization. We should compare them more and find out what kind of factors made them so diverse.
In the left one, there are bricks laid one on top of the other and in the right, cement blocks in a vertical manner.
Learn about: cost comparison of red bricks and cement blocks, components of red bricks and cement blocks etc.
Brick vs Cement Block: Differentiating Factors
| Factors | Brick Blocks | Cement Blocks |
| Composition | Red bricks are made mainly from clay and also contain certain amount of lime, alumina, sand, iron oxide and magnesia with the use of water which is then burnt in a kiln. | A construction material obtained by mixing gravels and sand with cement with cement being the key ingredient, filled and compacted in molds and then hardened. Also fly ash can be used in place of fine sand. |
| Compressive Strength | Red bricks have a compressive strength of 3.5 to 35 N/mm². | Concrete blocks have a compressive strength of 4 to 5 N/mm² based on the types of cement used. |
| Durability | More durable due to clay’s resistance to weathering and cracking. | More susceptible to damage from the elements. |
| Water Resistance and Thermal Conductivity | Better for colder regions, warming up buildings during the day and retaining heat at night. | Naturally better at resisting water, but takes longer to dry when wet. |
| Cost and Availability | Typically more expensive due to the cost of clay. | Generally easier to manufacture; may be easier to obtain if near brick kilns. |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Red Bricks
Red bricks have proved durable and have been used in masonry for decades, if not centuries. Below are a brief of their strengths and weaknesses.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Highly fire-resistant | Manufacturing process isn’t environmentally friendly |
| More durable than their cement counterparts | Brittle, requiring careful handling |
| Recyclable and reusable | Offer less tensile strength |
| Cost-effective | Uneven surfaces lead to higher mortar consumption during construction |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Concrete Blocks
One of the units that formally make up modern masonry is the concrete or cement blocks. Before going any further, let me give you a snapshot of the argument for and against it.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Offer better thermal and sound insulation | Not as aesthetically pleasing as red bricks |
| More environmentally friendly | Prone to water seepage over time |
| Consistent size and shape reduce the need for mortar and plaster | Require waterproofing due to high porosity |
The Final Verdict on Brick vs Cement Block
To use red bricks with very high durability or use concrete blocks which is more preferable to the natural environment? What will it be?
To sum up all the characteristics, both cement blocks and red bricks are suitable in their own unique ways, and the best choice depends on individual preferences and specific job requirements. Ultimately, the question of which is better hinges on the areas where the construction material will be used and the intended purpose. Walls and Dreams is committed to helping you navigate these options for your construction needs, ensuring a solid and aesthetically pleasing foundation for your projects.
FAQs
Red bricks and cement blocks are popular building materials because Why?
Red bricks and cement blocks since they have been proven to work in construction after several proven best examples.
In some cases, can red bricks be used for load bearing walls as well as walls that are not load bearing?
Indeed the use of red bricks can be employed for both load and non load bearing walls.
Which mortar or cement should one use when laying cement blocks?
Each mortar is not fixed, depending on the type of cement block and load bearing wall as well as the climatic conditions.
Which is better: red brick or cement block?
Concrete blocks and red bricks have their own benefits and limitations. However, concrete blocks are more resistant or have a better bearing capacity compared to red bricks; they are less hazardous to the environment and cost less compared to red bricks.
As a professional or homeowner, understand the difference between brick and block on your construction project for the correct material to use including block bricks, bricks and cement, cement block Bray bricks.
