Difference Between Cinder Blocks & Concrete Blocks

Cinder block and concrete block are two different structural elements often confused with each other. Although their major parts are the same, they have different properties. In this article, we’ll discuss the difference between cinder blocks and concrete blocks.

While concrete blocks are generally stronger, cinder blocks are lighter. This means cinder blocks are more suitable for houses and small buildings. Concrete blocks are more commonly used in large structures.

These two materials also have different advantages and disadvantages. For example, concrete blocks tend to be stronger than cinder blocks, but they’re prone to buckling and bending.

However, many building codes prohibit the use of cinder blocks for civil construction, and they are more expensive. While both are durable, their strength and durability may not be the same. Let’s discuss their differences briefly below.

What Are Cinder Blocks

Cinder blocks are hollow coal concrete blocks. Due to being lightweight, cinder blocks are ideal for garden walls. They don’t work well for larger construction projects, but they are an excellent choice for some smaller projects.

These lightweight blocks have a lower price and are easier to move than standard concrete blocks. And while their strength differs from the latter, they’re still a good choice for a home in many ways.

Uses of Cinder Blocks

Following are the uses of cinder blocks

Cinder blocks can be used as centerpieces to enhance the room’s appearance.
Cinder blocks can be used to make a grill, firewood storage, birdhouses, etc.
You can build an outer fireplace with cinder blocks that give a cozy look.

What Are Concrete Blocks

Concrete blocks are common building blocks made from cement, water, and various aggregates, such as crushed stone, gravel, or sand. They are mixed with water and then allowed to cure.

Concrete blocks are strong, robust, and durable. There are a variety of concrete blocks that come in various shapes and sizes, and they can be solid or hollow blocks.

Uses of Concrete Blocks

1. Concrete Blocks are an excellent choice for partition walls since they’re quick and simple to set up. The addition of steel reinforcement increases the strength of the structure.

2. Hollow Concrete blocks can be used to build load-bearing exterior and interior walls, partition walls, panel walls, and boundary walls.

3. Solid concrete blocks can be used to build great chimneys and fireplace places in buildings; however, they are also great for non-load-bearing walls and garden walls.

4. Concrete blocks can also be used in many smaller landscaping tasks. There are various outdoor furniture & patio ideas, for example, outdoor seating, decorative screens, outdoor bars, flower beds, and many more.

5. Concrete blocks can protect storage facilities from adverse weather conditions. It’s not surprising that engineers use concrete blocks to build material bins.

Advantages Of Concrete Blocks

1. Arranging concrete blocks is easy and doesn’t require much skilled labor.

2. Making concrete blocks is much easier, quicker, and more durable than brick masonry.

3. The ideal shape and size of the block make the job of a mason significantly easier.

4. There is a saving of mortar in construction because the number of joints is less.

5. It expands the carpet area of the structure due to the smaller width of the concrete block in comparison with a brick wall.

6. It gives greater thermal insulation, improved fire resistance, and better sound absorption.

7. It helps to save valuable agricultural land that is utilized to manufacture bricks.

Now, let’s discuss the difference between cinder blocks and concrete blocks.