Brick vs Block: How to Compare Masonry Materials

1. What Are Brick and Block?

Brick and block are masonry units that can be used to construct walls, partitions and other building elements. The exact composition and properties vary depending on the product.

Traditional bricks are often relatively small masonry units, while concrete blocks are generally larger and can be manufactured in different shapes, sizes and configurations.

The right choice depends on the building design, local construction practices and the characteristics of the specific products being considered.

2. Brick vs Block at a Glance

3. Consider the Purpose of the Wall

The first question should be what the wall is designed to do.

A wall may be structural, non-structural, an exterior enclosure, an interior partition or part of another building system.

The purpose of the wall affects the appropriate masonry product, thickness, reinforcement and installation method.

4. Compare the Specific Products

"Brick" and "block" are broad categories. Products within each category can have very different properties.

Before making a decision, compare actual manufacturer specifications rather than relying only on the general reputation of a material.

Useful specifications may include:

• Dimensions
• Density
• Compressive strength
• Water absorption
• Thermal properties
• Fire performance
• Recommended applications
• Installation requirements

5. Think About Structural Requirements

Masonry can be part of a structural system, but the structural performance of a wall depends on more than the masonry unit itself.

Mortar, reinforcement, wall configuration, connections and the overall building design can all influence performance.

6. Compare Thermal Performance

Thermal performance is an important consideration for exterior walls. However, comparing brick and block alone may not give an accurate picture of the completed wall.

The overall wall assembly can include insulation, air spaces, finishes, membranes and other materials.

When energy efficiency is important, compare the thermal performance of the complete wall system rather than only the masonry unit.

7. Consider Moisture Management

Exterior masonry walls can be exposed to rain, humidity and other sources of moisture.

Proper wall design should consider how water is prevented from entering, redirected or drained from the assembly.

Mortar joints, flashing, drainage spaces, coatings and other components may play a role depending on the wall system.

8. Compare Durability

Durability depends on the product quality, exposure conditions, installation and maintenance.

When comparing materials, consider the environment where the wall will be installed and how the selected product is designed to perform in that environment.

A material that performs well in one environment may require different detailing or maintenance in another.

9. Consider Appearance

Appearance can be an important factor, especially for exposed exterior masonry.

Brick is available in many colors, textures and patterns. Block can also be finished or exposed depending on the product and design.

Consider how the material will look with the roof, windows, doors, exterior finishes and surrounding property.

10. Installation Speed and Labor

Masonry unit size can influence installation productivity. Larger units may cover more wall area per unit, while smaller units can provide greater flexibility for certain layouts.

Actual installation time depends on the project, workers, wall design, access and material handling requirements.

For this reason, homeowners should compare complete installation costs rather than assuming that one material will always be cheaper to install.

11. Compare Mortar and Other Materials

Masonry units are only one part of a masonry wall.

The project may also require mortar, reinforcement, ties, insulation, flashing, finishes and other components.

When preparing a budget, include the complete wall system rather than comparing the purchase price of bricks or blocks alone.

12. Availability Matters

Material availability can affect both cost and project scheduling.

A particular brick or block product may not be readily available in every location.

Before selecting a product, ask local suppliers about availability, delivery times, minimum quantities and compatible accessories.

13. Consider Transportation and Handling

Masonry materials are heavy, so transportation and handling can affect the construction process.

Consider where materials will be delivered, how they will reach the work area and whether the site has sufficient access for delivery vehicles.

This is especially important when the construction site has limited access or difficult terrain.

14. Compare Maintenance Requirements

No masonry wall should be considered maintenance-free.

Over time, homeowners may need to inspect mortar joints, surfaces, cracks, water entry points and other components of the wall system.

The required maintenance depends on the material, exposure, installation quality and building design.

15. Brick and Block in Renovation Projects

Renovation projects require additional care because new masonry may need to connect to existing construction.

Before adding new brick or block, inspect the existing wall and determine how the new construction will connect to it.

Differences in dimensions, movement, moisture behavior and appearance should be considered during planning.

16. Ask Suppliers the Right Questions

A supplier can provide useful information about the specific masonry products available for your project.

• What are the product dimensions?
• What applications is the product designed for?
• What strength information is available?
• What are the thermal properties?
• What installation method is recommended?
• What mortar or accessories are compatible?
• Is the product currently available?
• What are the delivery requirements?

17. Compare Total Project Cost

The price of individual masonry units is only one part of the total project cost.

A more useful comparison includes:

• Material cost
• Mortar and accessories
• Labor
• Transportation
• Equipment
• Insulation and other wall components
• Finishing
• Potential maintenance

Comparing the complete installed wall can provide a more realistic basis for a construction decision.

18. Common Mistakes When Choosing Masonry Materials

• Choosing based only on appearance
• Choosing based only on the lowest material price
• Ignoring the complete wall assembly
• Ignoring local climate conditions
• Failing to check product specifications
• Not considering material availability
• Ignoring installation requirements
• Failing to plan moisture management
• Using an unsuitable product for a structural application
• Not considering long-term maintenance

19. Brick vs Block Decision Checklist

20. How to Make the Final Choice

There is no single masonry material that is automatically the right choice for every home.

Start with the project's requirements, then compare actual products based on structural performance, thermal properties, moisture management, appearance, availability, installation and total cost.

This approach helps ensure that the decision is based on the complete construction system rather than one characteristic of the material.

FAQ

Final Thoughts

Brick and block can both be useful masonry materials, but the best choice depends on the specific building and wall system.

Instead of choosing based only on price or appearance, compare the complete system, including structural requirements, thermal performance, moisture management, installation, availability and long-term maintenance.