What are Cinder Blocks?

Some construction projects call for a larger masonry block than a standard brick, but solid concrete blocks can be very expensive and very heavy. One common compromise are largely hollow masonry blocks known as cinder blocks. Cinder blocks are generally lighter than solid concrete blocks, which makes them easier for brick masons to place in position. The hollow spaces in cinder blocks also provide some natural insulation or allow reinforced concrete to be poured inside the rows of masonry. Cinder blocks differ from concrete blocks in other ways besides their hollow design. Concrete blocks are made from a slurry of Portland cement and small aggregate, such as small stones or gravel. Cinder blocks, on the other hand, are made from a combination of Portland cement and cinders, the dusty remnants of burned coal. The result is a lighter weight block formed into a rectangular masonry block. Although many people use the terms "cinder blocks" and "concrete blocks" interchangeably, a true ...  more

Some construction projects call for a larger masonry block than a standard brick, but solid concrete blocks can be very expensive and very heavy. One common compromise are largely hollow masonry blocks known as cinder blocks. Cinder blocks are also sometimes referred to as concrete blocks, breeze blocks, or concrete masonry units (CMUs), though these terms have nuanced differences among them. Cinder blocks are generally lighter than solid concrete blocks, which makes them easier for brick masons to place in position. The hollow spaces in cinder blocks also provide some natural insulation or allow reinforced concrete to be poured inside the rows of masonry. Cinder blocks differ from concrete blocks in other ways besides their hollow design. Concrete blocks are made from a slurry of Portland cement and small aggregate, such as small stones or gravel. Cinder blocks, on the other hand, are made from a combination of Portland cement and cinders, the dusty remnants of burned coal. The ...  more