The Pros and Cons of Block Masonry Walls

Concrete block is a very sturdy masonry material that is good for buildings and structures. Many large commercial facilities use concrete block walls as their main structural elements. They are also used in constructing smaller buildings like homes. Masonry walls, like many other materials, come with a list of pros and cons that contractors and architects should consider when making construction decisions.

The Pros 

A big advantage of using concrete block masonry walls is its durability. Concrete is one of the strongest materials available and is not susceptible to rotting, mold, or damage from various pests. Concrete is often fireproof and is often used a a firewall between rooms and other structures. Concrete with the help of an additive, such as Integral Water Repellent, can have a water resistant property which will fend off water penetration into your masonry wall. Another pro is its friendliness to the environment. Concrete masonry walls use recycled materials that don't contain harsh chemicals that will negatively affect your health or the health of the environment. The thickness of masonry walls acts as great insulation, reducing energy use and reducing the need for lumber. When choosing concrete masonry walls, you'll experience a decrease in construction time. 

The Cons

The first and most noticeable con of using concrete block masonry walls in the dullness of the appearance. This material is not the most visually attractive when comparing it to other building materials. The dry, gray color gives it an appearance that doesn't match up to the intrigue an natural beauty of other options. This con is something that can be changed with our Custom Concrete Masonry Units, which have enhanced features that display the natural beauty of concrete. These features include Brushed Face, Burnished Face, Brecciated Face, Chiseled Face, and Split Face. The second con is the cost. The cost on concrete masonry is generally more expensive than lumber. But that being said lumber and other building materials have their own set of pros and cons. Whether the additional cost will be worth it to your building project depends on the various details of the construction project at hand. 

In addition, the pros out weigh the cons with your only major con being the cost. But with a little more expense you are receiving a lot more durability and versatility, when it comes to using concrete masonry.