DIY Builds
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Which is stronger brick or concrete block?

Concrete blocks have a much higher water resistance than bricks, and their compressive strength is higher.

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What does a white barn mean?

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Is it better to cut wood wet or dry?

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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Bricks vs solid concrete blocks: which is better?

There are several main differences between clay bricks and concrete blocks, in terms of composition and usage. As a building material, they should be carefully selected according to the type of project and the intended use of the building. We break down the benefits of each.

The differences between bricks and solid concrete blocks

Bricks and concrete blocks are made from different raw materials, meaning they have different structural compositions. Brick is made up of sand, lime and concrete materials, while concrete blocks are produced from aggregate consisting of crushed sand or stone. Concrete blocks have a much higher water resistance than bricks, and their compressive strength is higher. Concrete has a shorter life than brick, though it still gives efficient results for up to 100 years. It is also incredible durable and can be painted more easily than brick, which secretes metallic salts that can cause paint to peel off. One of the main advantages of solid concrete blocks is that they offer outstanding fire resistance and the very highest fire safety rating. They're often favoured for their thermal efficiency and sound insulation.

Which is better?

There is no simple answer to this, as it depends on the nature of your project and the intended use of the building. If sound insulation, fire resistance and thermal efficiency are priorities, then solid concrete blocks could be the right choice for your construction project. It's also worth noting that concrete blocks can be painted easier than brick can, giving you more flexibility in terms of design options and finishes.

About our solid concrete blocks

We supply high-strength 100mm 7.3N solid concrete blocks for use in cavity and solid walls, load-bearing and solid partitions, columns and block and beam flooring. Our concrete blocks have a tolerance of D1, a mean compressive strength of 3.6 - 30N/mm2 (unit strength) and a shear bond strength of 0.15N/mm2 (tabulated value). Available in packs of 88, they are available for delivery or collection from our concrete plant in Avonmouth, where they are manufactured.

Find out more

To learn more about our solid concrete blocks or to place an order, please don't hesitate to contact us today on today on.

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Which is cheaper blown in insulation or rolled?

Another thing to keep in mind is that blown-in insulation can be more cost-effective depending on the attic situation. While you may have to take...

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Are Lowes pallets free?

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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What reasons can planning permission be refused?

The more common reasons for refusal are: Your project would overshadow a neighbour, causing them loss of light. Your building or structure overlooks other homes, causing loss of privacy. The appearance would be out of character with the existing property.

Planning permission will generally be granted providing the proposed work meets all of the relevant local policies and your council's Local Plan if applicable.

The more common reasons for refusal are:

Your project would overshadow a neighbour, causing them loss of light

Your building or structure overlooks other homes, causing loss of privacy

The appearance would be out of character with the existing property

Overdevelopment in the local area

If it's considered to adversely impact on the safety of a public highway

You have specified the use of hazardous materials

There will be an impact upon trees or nature conservation such as bats or rare newts

Your property is a listed building or in a conservation area

However, your application cannot be rejected on grounds of:

The time it will take to do the work and any disruption to your neighbours while it is underway Your planning history - if permission was refused for a previous project, this won’t affect your current application The opinion of a neighbour if this is not a relevant planning policy issue - for example if they are concerned over noise or just don’t like the appearance and think the extension is too large

Private agreements

Anything personal like your status, background or age

Further information

How far in advance should I think about getting planning permission?

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