Concrete Blocks vs. Bricks: A Guide
Deciding on a material for your next masonry project? Concrete blocks and bricks share some advantages but have key differences. This guide breaks it down.
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Last update on September 3, 2022
The cost of masonry work varies widely depending on the type of masonry along with common cost factors like size, complexity, location, and season. Most exterior masonry work done in freezing temperatures tends to cost more because of the preparation and protection involved to keep the masonry from freezing before the mortar cures properly. The average price ranges per project or square foot for different types of masonry include:
Masonry uses units like bricks, cement blocks, and stone with mortar between them. Mortar is generally made of sand and a type of cement. Examples of masonry include the brick or stone on a house, chimney, or freestanding wall. Concrete is a mixture of water, sand, stone aggregate, and other materials, and is poured into forms or moldings. Types of concrete applications include driveways, garage and basement floors, and poured concrete walls in basements and crawl spaces.
A mason lays brick or stone together, sometimes with mortar in between the bricks and stones, and sometimes without mortar, also called a dry-stack or surface bonding. Examples of work masons do include:
Two types of masonry are veneer masonry and solid masonry. Veneer masonry is thin brick or stone material attached to the face of a building. With veneer masonry, the walls support the weight of the masonry products rather than the masonry being built on a concrete footing. Solid masonry is a wall or other brick or stone structure built on a concrete footing, and the masonry supports itself.
Masonry work tends to be more expensive because the materials can be costly, such as natural stone and brick. Masonry is also very labor intensive, typically making up 50% or more of the final project cost. In addition, quality masonry work requires years of training and experience, as with any skilled trade.
Yes, you should hire a mason who’s licensed, certified, and insured, if possible. Be sure to check our state licensing tool to review the local mason guidelines.
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Hiring a mason to work on your home is a big commitment. So be sure to ask as many questions up front as possible. Here are a few questions to ask a masonry contractor:
Deciding on a material for your next masonry project? Concrete blocks and bricks share some advantages but have key differences. This guide breaks it down.
Question by Guest_9880981: How much does it cost to repoint a brick house in metro New York City?
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