Concrete masonry screen block walls and breeze block walls are used in almost every part of the country to enhance privacy around most properties. Although both types of walls offer privacy and solar heat reduction, they have some differences.
Understanding their differences will help you select a unique screen wall feature that satisfies your needs. If you’re looking for masonry services in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, we can install a new wall at your home or business.
Can you use breeze block for external walls?
You can use breeze blocks for external walls since they offer a visually pleasing and affordable way to filter out harsh sunlight while still providing ventilation.
Breeze blocks were so popular that almost every major city and town had a breeze block factory. Due to the expense of shipping them over great distances, it was often cheaper to produce them locally.
What is a breeze block wall?
Before the widespread use of air conditioning, architects invented various ingenious techniques to keep buildings cool, such as domes, exterior blinds and awnings, and transom windows. But none were as practical, inexpensive, or stylish as breeze blocks.
A breeze block wall refers to a perforated concrete wall composed of individual blocks punctured with the same form, typically a cross or circle. They were made from a blend of concrete and ash and are sometimes called cinder blocks. They produce a striking, eye-catching pattern when mounted together. Moreover, they caused a sensation in the 50s and 60s.
Americans abandoned classical forms in favor of primary lines and experimented with concrete and prefabricated construction methods over those two decades. Breeze blocks were the ideal complement to modernist architecture.
Floor-to-ceiling windows and walls that merged indoor and outdoor life had the defining features of breeze blocks, yet they were inadequate insulators. However, a breeze block barrier could be erected in front of the glass to screen the sun while allowing airflow.
Breeze blocks are gradually returning to the masonry industry, as they have a long history of helping people remain cool. This sun-shading method has been used for many years, especially in warmer parts of the country like Texas, California, and Florida, to protect against the sun or strong winds.
What is the difference between a breeze block and a concrete block?
Breeze blocks or cinder blocks are hollow rectangle-shaped blocks used in construction that are often built of concrete and coal cinders. Concrete blocks, on the other hand, are flattened steel, wood, or cement structures.
Breeze blocks have some similar features to concrete blocks in form and manufacture, except that instead of sand or gravel used in concrete blocks, most of the aggregate filler material is ash, especially coal cinder.
The ash content makes breeze blocks significantly lighter than concrete blocks that are heavier because of their stone and sand contents. Therefore, breeze blocks lack the same tensile strength and pressure-bearing capabilities as concrete blocks. As a result, they are more suitable for projects such as garden walls or retaining walls, but they are not suited for substantial construction projects. Breeze blocks are much more challenging to sustain because they require frequent repairs, while concrete blocks are much more durable.
Where can you use breeze blocks?
As breeze block walls make a comeback, they are used in many places, like adorning a hotel’s sides, church spires, and parking decks. Breeze blocks have begun transitioning from an external wall element to an indoor accent. They may now be seen in kitchens or against walls as charming vintage decoration. They’re ideal for creating partitions where space can be divided without the structural presence of a wall, like in outdoor showers.
Brick & Concrete Screen Walls
Brick and concrete screen walls have advantages, but choosing them depends on your preferences. They are both excellent materials for installing screen walls that are durable and attractive. We offer concrete masonry and bricks based on the ideal screen wall you want to create.
You may also choose a perforated brick screen wall that enables light to pass through. Alternatively, concrete blocks with a more open design may have a similar effect. We are Brick Screen Wall experts when it comes to screening walls.
Screen walls & masonry experts in Dallas-Fort Worth
Screen walls can feature concrete blocks or breeze blocks, each having different advantages. At Bricks Experts, our team is skilled and has experience with various types of masonry, including screen walls.
We can install a new wall at your home in Dallas-Ft. Worth area. We even offer a free estimate and consultation, so contact us today and get started.
