A Guide to Understanding the Difference Between Concrete Bricks and Blocks in South Africa

The Difference between a Concrete Block and a Concrete Brick in a South African context.

Concrete masonry units (CMUs) remain a cornerstone of South Africa’s construction industry. Despite often being referred to interchangeably, concrete bricks and concrete blocks are defined differently in South African standards, primarily based on size, modular coordination, and application. Understanding these differences is essential for correct specification, efficient construction, and regulatory compliance.

What Is the Difference Between a Concrete Brick and a Concrete Block?

According to South African industry guidance published by the Concrete Manufacturers Association (Of which Quadra South Africa is a Member) and referenced in SANS 1215 (Concrete Masonry Units), the primary distinction lies in unit dimensions.

• A concrete brick is a masonry unit with a length of less than 300 mm

• A concrete block is a masonry unit with a length typically between 300 mm and 650 mm, and/or a width between 130 mm and 300 mm

This dimensional distinction directly influences how each unit is used in construction, from wall thickness and structural capacity to speed of installation.

Concrete Bricks.

Standard Concrete Brick Sizes in South Africa

The CMA Concrete Masonry Manual defines recommended nominal masonry sizes that align with modular coordination, based on a 100 mm module (including mortar joints).

Typical concrete brick sizes include:

• 190 × 90 × 90 mm (nominal modular brick)

  
  

In practice, the South African market also supplies concrete bricks with dimensions such as approximately 220 × 110 × 90 mm. These are acceptable provided they comply with SANS 1215 requirements for dimensional tolerances, compressive strength, and durability.

Concrete bricks are commonly used for:

• Non-load-bearing walls

• Architectural and detailed masonry

• Applications where smaller units improve flexibility and finish quality

Concrete Blocks.

Standard Concrete Block Sizes in South Africa

Concrete blocks are larger units designed to improve construction efficiency and reduce labour time. The CMA manual identifies the following common modular block sizes:

• 390 × 190 × 90 mm

• 390 × 190 × 140 mm

• 390 × 190 × 190 mm

These sizes are intentionally coordinated to work with 10 mm mortar joints, enabling walls to be built in predictable 100 mm increments, which simplifies design, detailing, and site execution.

Concrete blocks are typically used for:

• Load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls

• Boundary walls and retaining structures

• Industrial, commercial, and residential walling systems

Construction and Laying Methods

The difference in unit size also affects laying techniques:

• Concrete bricks are normally laid using a full mortar bed, similar to clay brick masonry.

• Concrete blocks, particularly hollow units, are commonly laid using shell bedding, where mortar is applied only to the outer faces of the block.

Block masonry systems are well-suited to modular construction, reducing cutting, waste, and on-site adjustments.

Standards and Compliance

Concrete bricks and blocks in South Africa are regulated primarily by:

• SANS 1215 – which specifies material composition, strength classes, dimensional tolerances, and testing methods for concrete masonry units

• SANS 10400 (National Building Regulations) – which governs how masonry units are applied in compliant building design

Compliance with these standards ensures structural performance, durability, and consistency across projects.

Material Performance and Industry Trends

While conventional concrete bricks and blocks remain dominant, manufacturers increasingly focus on:

• Improved quality control and consistency

• Optimised mix designs for durability and strength

• Alternative aggregates and lightweight solutions, where appropriate and compliant

Any variation in size or material composition must still meet the performance requirements of SANS 1215, regardless of format or application.

Why Understanding the Difference Matters

Clearly distinguishing between concrete bricks and concrete blocks allows industry professionals to:

• Specify the correct unit for structural and architectural requirements

• Design efficiently using modular coordination

• Improve construction speed and reduce material waste

• Ensure compliance with South African building standards

In a construction environment that prioritises efficiency, quality, and long-term performance, understanding unit size, standardisation, and application remains fundamental.

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