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Transform your landscape or home exterior when you build better with concrete blocks and bricks at Arlington Coal and Lumber. From sturdy retaining walls to elegant brick walkways, our home improvement store provides the high-quality materials you need for projects that last a lifetime. Serving homeowners across Massachusetts and New Hampshire, we pride ourselves on being a trusted one-stop shop for all masonry needs.

We are your best partner in bringing your dream project to life by providing best material estimates with our friendly locations close to you from Arlington Coal and Lumber Company, Burlington Lumber Company, Wilmington Builders Supply, Sudbury Lumber Company, Chelmsford Lumber Company, and Hudson Lumber Company.

You can also browse and find a wide selection of top-quality Concrete, Cement, and Masonry online at Arlcoal.com. Explore our full range of products, including Blocks and Bricks, Concrete Accessories, Lally Columns, and Sakrete Products. If you are a contractor or a frequent DIYer, we invite you to sign-up to manage your orders efficiently. Ready to start? Please contact us for personalized assistance in the Greater Boston and New England region.

Concrete blocks and bricks are the fundamental building blocks of modern infrastructure. While they may seem similar, they serve distinct purposes in structural integrity and aesthetic design. Whether you are searching for a local lumber store or a local building supply, understanding these materials is key to a successful build.

What is the difference between concrete blocks and bricks? The primary difference lies in their composition and size. Bricks are traditionally made of clay and fired in a kiln, usually measuring around 8-in by 2.25-in by 4-in. In contrast, concrete blocks (often called CMUs or Concrete Masonry Units) are made from cast concrete. They are much larger, with a standard nominal size of 8-in by 8-in by 16-in. Blocks are generally used for structural load-bearing walls, while bricks are often chosen for their classic aesthetic and thermal mass.

What's cheaper, bricks or concrete blocks? Generally, concrete blocks are more cost-effective for large-scale construction. Because one block covers the same area as roughly 10 to 12 bricks, labor costs are significantly reduced. You can view current pricing in our online product catalog. While the raw material cost per unit varies, the speed of installation makes concrete blocks the budget-friendly choice for foundations and structural walls.

What are the three types of concrete blocks?

• Hollow blocks: These contain one or more large voids to reduce weight and allow for steel reinforcement or insulation.
  
  
• Solid blocks: These are heavy and dense, providing maximum fire resistance and structural strength for load-bearing applications.<
  
  
• Decorative or split-face blocks: These feature a textured finish used for aesthetic exterior walls that do not require additional siding.
  
  

What lasts longer, concrete or brick? Both materials are incredibly durable, but they age differently. Clay bricks can last for centuries and are known for maintaining their color without fading. Concrete blocks are equally structural but may require sealing or painting over decades to prevent moisture penetration. For projects in the harsh climate of the New England region, both are excellent choices when installed with proper concrete accessories.

Which is better for soundproofing? Concrete blocks, especially when filled with sand or grout, provide superior sound insulation due to their sheer mass. This makes them a preferred choice for multi-family housing or buildings near busy Greater Boston highways.

Can I use concrete blocks for a retaining wall? Yes, concrete blocks are the industry standard for retaining walls. Their size and weight provide the necessary gravity-based resistance to hold back soil. For a more finished look, many homeowners choose to face these walls with thin brick or stone veneer found in our all product categories section.

Whether you are looking for a local lumberyard or a comprehensive local building supplies provider, Arlington Coal and Lumber has the expertise to guide you. From the initial estimate to final delivery across Massachusetts and New Hampshire, we ensure your masonry project is built to last. Check out all products today and let us help you build better.