Concrete blocks cost between $1 to $5 per block, depending on their size and type. Standard 8×8×16 inch blocks cost around $1.50 to $3.00 each. Your total project cost will depend on how many blocks you need, as well as the local pricing in your area. Lightweight concrete blocks will cost less than the dense ones.

As confirmed by the GSA in the US, hollow blocks reduce weight and improve insulation. Cores are sometimes filled with foam to increase thermal resistance, adding other benefits too. At Lontto Block Machine, we eat, drink and breathe concrete blocks and the machines that make them. Here's a guide you can use to determine the costs of different kinds of concrete blocks.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard concrete blocks cost $1 to $3 each, but decorative blocks cost much more at $3 to $8 each.
  • You can save money by buying full pallets of blocks instead of individual ones, and building during fall or winter months.
  • A complete concrete block wall costs $15 to $30 per linear foot when you hire someone else to build it.
  • Extra costs like drainage, foundations, and filling block cores can add $15 to $34 more per linear foot to your project.

How much does a Standard 8 × 8 × 16 Inch Concrete Block Cost?

how much does a standard 8 × 8 × 16 inch concrete block cost

A standard 8×8×16 inch concrete block costs $1.50 to $3.00 each. You'll pay less when you buy lots of blocks at once. Prices change based on where you live and which store you shop at. These blocks weigh about 30 to 35 pounds each. Heavier blocks cost more but are stronger.

What are the Costs of Different Types of Concrete Blocks?

what are the costs of different types of concrete blocks

Different concrete block types have different prices. Standard gray blocks cost $1 to $3 each. Decorative blocks cost $3 to $8 each. Split-face blocks cost $2 to $5 each. Your choice depends on your project needs and budget. Lightweight blocks cost less than heavy ones.

Here's a quick overview on what you will pay for different types of concrete blocks:

Block Type Typical Cost (Each) Notes
Standard Gray Block $1 to $3 Most commonly used for basic walls
Decorative Block $3 to $8 Used for aesthetic or façade work
Split Face Block $2 to $5 Textured surface for visual appeal
Lightweight Block $1 to $2.50 Easier to handle and transport
Solid Concrete Block $2.50 to $4.50 Denser and stronger than hollow
Hollow Block $1 to $3 Often reinforced with steel or fill

Additional prices: Colored blocks cost more than gray ones. Red, tan, and brown blocks add $1 to $2 extra per block. Special shapes like corner blocks or half blocks also cost more.

Remember: These help you finish your project but add to your total cost.

How much is One Pallet of Concrete Blocks?

One pallet of concrete blocks costs $90 to $300. Most pallets have 90 to 120 blocks on them. You save money buying pallets instead of single blocks. The total depends on block type and your local store prices. Standard block pallets cost less than decorative ones.

Additional prices: A pallet of basic gray blocks runs between $90 to $180. Decorative block pallets cost $200 to $300 or more.

Remember: You'll need to order pallets ahead of time at most stores.

How much does a Concrete Block Wall Cost Per Linear Foot?

A concrete block wall costs $15 to $30 per linear foot installed. This includes blocks, mortar, and labor costs. You'll pay less if you build it yourself. Wall height and thickness change the final price too. Materials alone cost $8 to $15 per linear foot.

Remember: Labor adds $10 to $17 more per foot. Taller walls cost more because they need more blocks and take longer to build. Walls with curves or special features also cost extra.

When is the Best Time of Year to Build More Affordably?

Fall and winter are the best times to build concrete block walls more affordably. Contractors charge less during slow seasons from October through to March. You'll save 10% to 20% on labor costs compared to busy spring and summer months.

Are there Drainage Costs Involved in Concrete Block Walls?

Yes, drainage costs add $5 to $15 per linear foot to your concrete block wall project. You need drainage pipes, gravel, and waterproofing materials behind retaining walls. Poor drainage can damage your wall and cause expensive repairs later.

How much does a Trench or Foundation Cost for a Concrete Block Wall?

A trench or foundation for concrete block walls costs $8 to $15 per linear foot. This includes digging, concrete footing, and leveling work. Deeper foundations for tall walls cost $15 to $25 per linear foot instead.

What's the Added Cost to Fill Block Cores?

Filling block cores adds $2 to $4 per linear foot to your wall cost. You need concrete mix and rebar to fill the hollow spaces inside blocks. This makes your wall much stronger, but costs more money and time to finish.

Additional prices: The concrete mix costs about $0.50 to $1.00 per block to fill. Rebar adds another $0.25 to $0.50 per block.

Remember: Labor costs go up too, because filling takes extra time. You'll need to pour concrete into each block hole carefully. Filled walls are stronger and last longer. They resist wind and earthquakes better than empty blocks. Building codes sometimes require filled cores for certain projects, so check your local rules before you start building.

Where Can You Find a High Quality Concrete Block Making Machine?

You can find high quality concrete block making machines from Lontto Block Machine and other equipment suppliers. Lontto offers reliable machines for different production needs and budgets. They provide excellent customer service and machine training to help you get started with your business.

FAQs on How Much are Concrete Blocks?

What factors affect the cost of a concrete block?

Factors like block size, weight, and type affect concrete block costs most. Larger blocks cost more than smaller ones. Heavy blocks cost more than lightweight versions. Decorative blocks with special finishes cost more than plain gray blocks. Your location and where you shop also change prices.

Is filling hollow blocks necessary?

No, filling hollow blocks isn't always necessary, but makes walls much stronger when you do. Building codes require filled blocks for tall walls or earthquake areas. You don't need to fill blocks for short garden walls or non-structural projects. Check local rules before you start building.

What's the cost of ecology blocks?

Ecology blocks cost $8 to $15 each, which is much more than regular concrete blocks. These eco-friendly blocks use recycled materials and special designs. They're better for the environment but cost 3 to 5 times more than standard blocks for your project.

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chao zhang

Author: Chao Zhang

I am Chao Zhang, I have been working in the brick making industry for over 10 years. I have a deep understanding and research on various models of block making machines, especially automatic brick machines, concrete block machines, compressed earth block machines, clay brick machines, cement brick machines. I have a special understanding of this industry. I can help my clients choose the suitable brick machine and assist them in designing and building a brick production factory. If you want to know everything about brick making machines, please contact me. I am happy to help you.