Concrete Block vs. Cement Block vs. Cinder Block

While terms like “concrete” and “cement” may be used interchangeably, deciding whether you’ll use a cement block or concrete block for your next project is not as easy as you may think. Both are made with a cement base and about 65–75% aggregates; however, each has unique properties that any homeowner or contractor should know. If you want to understand the difference between a cement block, cinder block, and concrete block, you've come to the right place.

Lontto has over 30 years of experience providing advanced brick-making solutions to our customers, with a special focus on crafting every brick to perfection. We’re uniquely qualified to discuss “everything brick”, and we’ll be laying down the main differences between cinder, cement, and concrete bricks.

Key Takeaways

Concrete Blocks

Concrete blocks, also known as concrete masonry units (CMU), are an integral piece of any construction project. The blocks are made from a blend of cement and aggregates (sand, gravel, crushed stone), and poured into molds to be cured. They offer a robust and fire-resistant option that you can use for residential and commercial construction. Moreover, many contractors use concrete blocks for their long lifespan and diverse functionality.

What makes concrete blocks different from cement blocks is their composition; concrete blocks use crushed stone and fine sand in their aggregates, while cement blocks use fly ash. The crushed stone is gathered from mining, gives the block immediate strength, and allows the block to harden as it ages.

However, gathering this crushed stone impacts the environment when harvested. If you want to make the sustainable choice when choosing between a cement block vs. concrete block, cement is more sustainable.

Versatile Options

The biggest benefit of using CMUs is their versatility. Concrete blocks can be sourced in many varieties, including solid blocks, hollow blocks, and specialty blocks to fit your construction needs. They can be used as both load-bearing walls and non-load-bearing concrete walls, as well as foundations and partitions.

Applications

Concrete blocks are a staple for commercial construction projects that can take advantage of their durability and fire resistance. Schools, hospitals, and other commercial buildings where fire safety is paramount will often have a concrete block wall instead of a cinder block or cement wall.

Cement Blocks

Cement blocks share many similarities with concrete blocks — both are extremely durable, made from cement, and have a high density. Whereas concrete blocks contain crushed stone aggregates, cement blocks are typically made from fly ash aggregates. This component is a natural by-product of the industrial process, which makes it a more environmentally sustainable alternative to crushed stone.

Cement is a great alternative to concrete as a building block for constructing walls and foundations. Although concrete blocks are stronger laterally, cement blocks have a high vertical tensile strength that enables them to bear vertical loads.

Applications

If your construction project is in a region with very high or low temperatures, cement blocks have a higher thermal insulation that offers relief from external temperatures. This makes them an excellent choice for homes, offices, and other construction projects that want to maintain a pleasant temperature within the building’s interior. Cement blocks are also good for sound insulation, so building walls for homes with cement blocks will reduce the noise pollution from busy centers and highways.

Cinder Blocks

Cinder blocks are made from a blend of Portland cement, water, and cinder aggregates (made from coal or wood combustion), which produces a block that doesn’t take vertical loads well. It’s because of its composition and the differences in cinder blocks that you won’t use them for foundation walls but instead for smaller-scale projects. Indeed, cinder blocks are rarely used for large-scale projects that bear heavy loads.

Applications

When considering whether to use cinder block vs. concrete block, opt to use cinder for DIY projects, landscaping, and non-loading-bearing walls. Since cinder blocks are lighter, easier to handle, and generally cheaper, they can reduce expenses (material and labor costs) for your next construction project at home. Notably, many homeowners use cinder blocks as fire pits, garden beds, and perimeters in their garden projects.

Concrete vs. Cement vs. Cinder Blocks: Advantages and Disadvantages

We’ve summarized the advantages and disadvantages of concrete, cement, and cinder blocks below:

Environmental Concerns

Concrete Blocks

The extraction of crushed stone and the high carbon dioxide emissions from cement production have a substantial influence on the environment when it comes to manufacturing concrete blocks. Concrete blocks are not the most eco-friendly option because quarrying is so energy-intensive and destroys ecosystems.

Cement Blocks

A more environmentally friendly option is cement blocks made from fly ash, which is a waste product of burning coal. By reusing industrial waste, we can reduce our reliance on landfills and protect our precious natural resources. Furthermore, in comparison to concrete blocks, cement blocks usually produce fewer emissions of carbon dioxide during production.

Cinder Blocks

Cinder blocks incorporate cinder aggregates from coal or wood combustion, which encourages the recycling of industrial waste. Plus, their lighter weight reduces transportation energy. However, their lower strength limits their use to non-load-bearing applications, potentially increasing material use for structural needs.

Never be left without high-quality materials for your next big construction project. Lontto is a block- and brick-making machine supplier, offering reliable, high-volume production solutions at factory direct sales prices. Get in touch with us about a quote for your machine today.

FAQs on Concrete vs. Cement vs. Cinder Blocks

Are Concrete Blocks Good for Construction?

Yes, concrete blocks are extremely strong and durable, which makes them a natural choice for construction. Concrete blocks offer a robust option that requires very little maintenance. They are perfect for masonry walls, partition walls, and foundation blocks.

Are Concrete Blocks Damp-Proof?

No, concrete blocks are not entirely damp-proof. Concrete blocks are made using crushed stone or fine sand, which gives each block a porous texture that allows water to enter. They are vulnerable to moisture intrusion if you do not ensure that your mortar joints are protected.

Can You Paint Cinder Blocks?

Yes, cinder blocks can be painted once they are dry. For the best results, use an acrylic-latex paint or elastomeric paint with a paint roller or paintbrush.

Should this article have piqued your interest, we recommend exploring our additional resources on Different Types of Concrete Blocks for Construction, How to Choose the Best Concrete Block Making Machine for Your Business and What are Bricks Made Of? All Types of Brick Making Process.

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