Concrete Masonry Unit Manufacturers

Concrete masonry unit manufacturing refers to producing concrete blocks or bricks used in building construction. These units are made by mixing cement, aggregates, water, and additives, then molding and curing them. You'll find these blocks in many American buildings, as they provide strength and durability.

As of recent data from IBISWorld, there are approximately 22,745 businesses in the broader masonry industry in the U.S.

Lontto Block Machine has compiled this list of the top 10 concrete masonry unit (CMU) manufacturers in the U.S. so that you can select one that suits your needs. We'll give you all of their pros and cons too.

Concrete Masonry Unit Manufacturers: An Overview

Lontto Block Machine

Lontto Block Machine builds equipment to make concrete blocks instead of making blocks. Their range of machines helps create blocks for CMU manufacturers. Block makers use their tools to make high-quality blocks.

Pros

• High-quality machines to make many types of blocks
• Equipment works for both small and large block factories
• Technical support helps you learn how to use their machines

Cons

• Does not supply blocks, only the machines to make them

E. Dillon & Company

E. Dillon & Company makes many types of concrete blocks with a focus on design. You can actually see their blocks in buildings across America. They make blocks with different surfaces to fit your building needs.

Pros

• Wide range of block designs and colors for your projects
• Long history in the industry means reliable products
• Special focus on decorative blocks that look better than basic ones

Cons

• May cost more than basic concrete blocks
• Limited plant locations might mean longer shipping times to some areas
• Some specialty products might need to be ordered in advance

Echelon Masonry

Echelon Masonry is part of Oldcastle and sells blocks, brick, and stone. They manufacture of concrete masonry units in most US areas, so they cost less and arrive faster. Their blocks work for both structure and aesthetics in your projects.

Pros

• Local production means shorter wait times and lower shipping costs
• Many style options to match with other building materials
• Part of a large company with strong supply chains

Cons

• Regional production means quality can vary between plants
• Limited direct sales, as they often work through dealers
• May have higher prices than some smaller makers

Nitterhouse Masonry Products

Nitterhouse Masonry Products has manufactured blocks and other products since 1923 for home and business use. Their blocks come with different surfaces to make your buildings look great. As CMU block manufacturers, their products meet all building regulations and help your structures last.

Pros

• Almost 100 years of experience making blocks shows their quality
• Many finish options for both plain and fancy projects
• Products meet or exceed all building standards

Cons

• Mainly serves the East Coast, so other areas may face long shipping
• Custom orders can take longer to produce
• Higher cost for specialty finishes

Amcon Concrete Products

Amcon Concrete Products makes concrete products in the Upper Midwest. They run nine plants in the region, so you can get blocks near your job site. Their Travertina blocks offer special looks for building walls.

Pros

• Strong presence in the Upper Midwest with nine plants
• Special architectural blocks not found from other makers
• Good for both small and large projects

Cons

• Limited market outside the Midwest region
• Lesser-known nationally than some larger brands
• Some specialty products may need longer lead times

Midwest Block & Brick

Midwest Block & Brick makes concrete blocks that builders like you can trust. You can pick from their colors and surfaces to build beautiful, but strong walls. Their blocks give you both function and style at good prices.

Pros

• Trusted by builders for strength and fire safety
• Good mix of function and style at fair prices
• Many colors and textures to choose from

Cons

• Regional focus may limit availability in some areas
• Some reports of color variations between batches
• Limited online ordering options

Westbrook Concrete Block

Westbrook Concrete Block has run since 1940 and spans three family groups. They focus on earth-friendly blocks, like their Pozzotive blocks that use old glass to replace cement. You can build green structures that also last using their blocks as they adhere to a strict concrete masonry unit manufacturing process.

Pros

• Green focus with recycled materials in their blocks
• Family-owned for three generations shows stability
• Innovative products like Pozzotive show they keep improving

Cons

• Smaller size means less production capacity than big companies
• Mainly serves northeast U.S. markets
• Premium green products cost more than standard blocks

CEMEX USA

CEMEX USA makes basic and specialized concrete blocks from 4 to 16 inches large. Their blocks meet strict rules and give you fire safety, sound control, and energy saving. You can build amazing buildings that last a long time using their materials.

Pros

• Wide size range: from 4 to 16 inches fits most projects
• National reach: means products are available almost everywhere
• Strict quality control: ensures consistent blocks

Cons

• Being a huge company can mean less personal service
• Focus on large-scale projects over small jobs
• Standard products may lack design options of specialty makers

Oldcastle Architectural Inc.

Oldcastle Architectural Inc. makes lots of building products, including all kinds of concrete blocks. Their blocks work for both holding up buildings and making them look good. You can see their blocks in many buildings across the U.S.

Pros

• One of the biggest: block makers with national distribution
• Full range: from basic to fancy architectural blocks
• Products used: in many major projects proves reliability

Cons

• Size of the company can lead to less flexible customer service
• Premium products have premium prices
• May prioritize large orders over small customers

County Materials Corporation

County Materials Corporation makes blocks that are strong but also look incredible. You can choose from many colors, sizes, and surfaces for your projects. Their blocks help you build structures that stand up to severe weather and still look professional.

Pros

• Good balance: of strength and looks in their blocks
• Wide selection: of colors and textures
• Products stand up: well to harsh weather

Cons

• Regional focus mostly in Midwest and surrounding states
• Less name recognition than some larger brands
• Limited specialty block options compared to design-focused makers

Partner with Lontto Block Machine

Lontto Block Machine gives you more than 30 years of experience in manufacturing and supplying CMU block-making machines. We're also proud to provide support services for installation and training. Contact us today to learn more about our solutions!

Concrete Masonry Unit Manufacturers FAQs

What standards govern CMU manufacturing?

CMU manufacturing in the USA follows ASTM C90 standards. This set of rules makes sure your concrete blocks are strong, the right size, and safe to use. The American Concrete Institute (ACI) also provides guidelines that check aspects like water absorption and strength.

What is the typical compressive strength of CMUs?

Most CMUs have a compressive strength of between 1,900 and 3,500 psi (pounds per square inch). For your regular building needs, 2,000 psi blocks work well. Stronger blocks of 3,000 or higher psi are great when you need extra support. All standard CMUs must have at least 1,900 psi strength.

What materials are mainly used in CMU production?

CMUs are mainly made from Portland cement, water, and aggregates like sand, gravel, or crushed stone. You might find blocks with added materials like fly ash or slag cement. Makers mix these ingredients, form them into blocks, and cure them based on what strength and features you need.

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