Any home or business improvement project is both exciting and daunting. You’re presented with so many factors to research, one of which is the material you will use to complete your design.Thankfully, we’re here to give you a head start. We’ve outlined the top three masonry materials we work with, as well as factors to consider when planning your project.
Make sure to connect with a brick masonry and construction expert with questions.
3 Materials to Choose From
Masonry construction projects are completed using one of three primary materials: brick, stone, or concrete blocks. Each choice comes with its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages you should consider. But first, let’s clearly define each option.
Brick
Brick is basically clay that has been molded into the rectangle that most people are familiar with, then pressed with extreme weight to solidify the shape. They’re held together by a strong mixture called mortar to complete all sorts of jobs.
Stone
Stone is a naturally occurring choice for a variety of your masonry construction projects. Stone is mined from the ground before being broken into usable pieces by experienced workers with specialized equipment to produce the samples you may have seen in your local hardware store.
Concrete Blocks
Concrete blocks, also known as cinder blocks, are created using a concoction of cement, water, broken-down rocks, and sand. They are mixed, formed, then cured to create an assortment of shapes that can meet many of your design needs.
3 Factors to Consider
Now that you know what options exist, it’s time to understand what you should consider when choosing! Of course every person will have different priorities, so we’re here to help guide you in the right direction!
Appearance
Obviously, you want your masonry project to be impressive, so the final picture you envision can quickly determine the material you need. For example, if you’re aiming for the most natural appearance to blend into the landscape, then stone is a no brainer
However, it’s important to note that, because it’s naturally occurring, you will have a mismatch of sizes and shapes – which is great if you’re going for a unique finish that no one can replicate!
Bricks and concrete blocks, on the other hand, offer more uniformity for a project. For example, if you are installing a retaining wall, these two options will give a seamless look that’s pleasing to the eye.
Unless painted, brick is a bit more limited in color, so those looking for unique finishes will want to strongly consider concrete blocks.
Cost
For a vast majority of our clients, cost is an important factor in finalizing any masonry project. When looking at the average of the three materials, concrete blocks are usually the most affordable choice. This makes them particularly appealing for large projects that require huge amounts of material that can add up quickly.
Stone and brick can be fairly comparable in cost, with brick edging out slightly as the less expensive choice in most cases. However, the labor involved with stone can sometimes be higher since it can require more expertise and time to piece together, as opposed to brick which has a predictable lay pattern. Additionally, some types of stone will carry a higher price tag than others.
Durability
Brick is easily the least durable material of the three. That’s not to say it isn’t strong – many brick buildings stand for many decades, if not longer! But it is more prone to fading, cracking, and degrading, which can be worsened in places with extreme weather events like heat waves or freezes.
Stone has a much higher density than man-mixed concrete blocks, which is why masonry experts agree stone is considered the strongest choice. It’s naturally occurring and can withstand great force without chipping or breaking.
However, the ingredients of cinder blocks make them an incredibly durable back-up option that can last for years. So, some clients determine the durability is worth the extra cost and elect for stone, while others trust in the durability of concrete blocks. We can help talk through the nuances so you’re confident in your choice.
Overall
Whether you are finishing the exterior of a home, building a retaining wall, repairing a block wall, or customizing a chimney, you’ll be presented with the option of brick, stone, or concrete blocks.
Industry’s Best in Custom Home Masonry and Construction Services
Don’t let yourself get stressed over a project that should be enjoyable. Instead, give Primo Contracting in Rochester Hills a call to discuss your overall goals, priorities, and vision so we can help bring your masonry construction dreams to life.
Partner with the best in brick masonry and construction services, choose Primo Contracting!