Concrete Block Guide in Nashville and Middle Tennessee
Material guide

Concrete Block Guide

Concrete masonry units are the strong, simple core of many walls. Here is how they work and where they fit.

Concrete block, or CMU, is a manufactured unit made of cement, sand and gravel. It is strong in compression, fast to lay and stable. Its hollow cells can be filled with grout and steel to make a very strong wall.

Block is widely used for foundations, retaining walls, garages and outdoor kitchen bases. It is usually covered with another finish, such as stucco, stone or brick, because plain block can look industrial. With the right finish, block gives you a strong core at a fair cost.

Best for

  • Foundations and garages
  • Retaining walls
  • Outdoor kitchen bases
  • Structures finished later

Strengths

  • Strong and stable
  • Lower cost
  • Fast to build
  • Fire resistant

Keep in mind

  • Plain look
  • Porous without a coating
  • Heavy
  • Needs a finish
The details

What defines Concrete Block

Strong in compression

Great for load.

Grout and steel fill

Extra strength.

Fast to build

Saves labor.

Many finishes

Stucco, stone or brick.

Fire resistant

Safe for kitchen bases.

Good value

Lower material cost.

Questions

Concrete Block FAQ

Can block be left unfinished?

It can, but most owners finish it with stucco, stone or brick.

Is block waterproof?

No. It needs sealing or coating where water is a concern.

Does block crack?

Control joints and good footings help prevent cracks.

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