Cinder Block Walls vs. Concrete Walls: Which One is Best for Your Project?
Cinder and concrete are the most common construction materials for walls. Both are made of cement and 65-75% aggregates. They facilitate support, have load-bearing capacity, and are fire-resistant.
This means that both share a common composition and purpose at some point. However, they differ in properties, durability, application and other factors. This blog will highlight all the differences between cinder block walls and concrete block walls so you can choose the best option.
Key Takeaways
| Property | Cinder Block Walls | Concrete Walls |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Weak | Very strong |
| Durability | Durable | Highly durable |
| Components | Cement, cinder aggregates, including wood, volcanic, or coal | Cement, crushed stone, fine sand aggregates |
| Applications | DIY and landscaping | Commercial and residential projects |
Cinder Block Walls
Manufacturers produce cinder blocks for walls using a mixture of Portland cement, cinder aggregates, and water.
Note: Cinder aggregates are made by combustion of coal or wood.
Cinder blocks are not a suitable choice for foundation walls. Consequently, experts never recommend constructing a cinder block foundation.
Similarly, due to their manufacturing processes, they cannot support vertical loads. Therefore, they are rarely preferred for large-scale construction projects.
However, builders use them for many small-scale constructions, including
- Infrastructure repairs
- Residential home additions
- Electrical system upgrades
Where Cinder Blocks Are Used
As mentioned above, cinder wall blocks are rarely recommended by experts. Still, they can be used in many other projects, including.
- DIY projects
- Landscaping
- Non-load-bearing walls
- Fire pits
- Garden beds
- Perimeters in garden projects
Advantages of Cinder Block Walls
As mentioned above, cinder wall blocks are rarely recommended by experts. Still, they can be used in many other projects, including.
- Lightweight
- Easy to handle and work with
- Low cinder block cost
- Best for DIY projects
The average cinder block price ranges between $1.25 to $2.50 for a standard size 8”x8”x16” piece.
Disadvantages of Cinder Block Walls
- Low strength, particularly when used for vertical structures
- Not a suitable option for large-scale projects
- Less durable
Environmental Concerns of Cinder Blocks
Cinder blocks are made after wood or coal combustion, facilitating the easy recycling of industrial waste. Furthermore, their lighter weight reduces the transportation needed for processing, reducing environmental pollution.
How To Build A Cinder Block Wall
First, arrange the following tools and materials before understanding how to lay a cinder block wall.
| Tools | Construction Materials |
|---|---|
|
|
Now, follow the below cinder block steps for easy construction
- Prepare a trench using a trenching machine.
- Fill the trench with an appropriate quantity of concrete.
- Mark the points and snap the chalk line.
- Dry-fit blocks, considering ⅜ inch spacers.
- Mark and remove terminal blocks.
- Mix the mortar in a masonry tub or motorized mixer.
- Moisten the footing with a garden hose/sprayer.
- Lay the mortar base in two rows.
- Set cinder blocks on the mortar line properly.
- Complete the foundation layer.
- Set the last block.
- Repeat the process to start the second course.
- Continue the process.
- Position the uppermost blocks.
- Refine the horizontal and vertical joints.
- Finish the project with exterior coating.
The same process you can follow to construct a cinder block house. Remember that the project should be small-scale.
Concrete Block Walls
Concrete blocks are also known as concrete masonry units (CMU). They are hundreds of times better than cinder blocks for wall construction. Manufacturers produce CMU using the following materials:
- Cement
- Aggregates of sand, gravel, and crushed stones
Builders consider it the best option for commercial and residential projects due to its high structural integrity and reliable performance.
Learn More : Stop Wasting Money! Use Elemental Cost Analysis to Optimize Your Budget
Where Concrete Blocks Are Used
As a solid material for large-scale construction, both small and large concrete blocks have many applications in the industry.
- Commercial constructions (Schools, office buildings, hotels, hospitals, etc.)
- Residential constructions (Single-family homes, multi-family homes, etc.)
Advantages of Concrete Block Walls
- Much more time stronger than cinder blocks
- Highly load-bearing
- Extremely durable
- Highly fire-resistant
- Available in many types
Disadvantages of Concrete Block Walls
- Bad impact on the environment
- Cause moisture and water penetration
- Expensive than cinder blocks
The split-shape concrete block price can fall between $3 to $5/piece.
Environmental Concerns of Concrete Blocks
During production, concrete barrier blocks produce high amounts of carbon dioxide and crushed stone, both of which damage the atmosphere. Thus, concrete blocks are not eco-friendly and destroy the environment in many ways.
Insulated Concrete Form (ICF) Blocks: A Better Alternative
After exploring the properties of cinder block walls and CMU walls, we must look for a better option which aligns strength, durability, and cost, with the lowest environmental impact.
You can choose ICF blocks, which are made of innovative raw materials. The outer layer is reinforced concrete, and the sides are layered with insulating foam. This material provides strength, insulation, and ease of construction.
ICF is a better option than cinder and concrete block walls for the following reasons:
- Unmatched structural integrity
- Energy efficiency
- Quick and easy installation
- Low need for labor
- Acoustic performance
Final Words
Whatever the type of wall you go with, remember to estimate the cost before executing the project. It is essential to choose the best option according to your project nature and optimize budget and timelines. If you are not an expert in estimating the CMU wall or cinder block wall cost, get concrete estimating services from estimators. With their assistance, you will be able to understand your project requirements clearly and plan things that will not break the bank.
