National masonry bricks blocks
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Bricks or Blocks

ByLeonie Howe

How to Win on Time and Cost

Smart masonry choices for coastal builders looking to protect budgets, speed timelines, and deliver lasting results.

Building on the coast is as rewarding as it is challenging. Salty air, high winds, and unpredictable weather can be brutal on materials. Add to that the growing pressure from clients for projects to be delivered faster and within budget, and you’ve got a juggling act that leaves no room for error.

Choosing between blocks and bricks isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about durability, compliance, labour efficiency, and cost control. Make the wrong choice, and you could be looking at delays, budget blowouts, and warranty headaches. Make the right choice, and you set your project up for smooth sailing.

FeatureConcrete Blocks
Concrete Blocks Bricks

Unit SizeLarge (fewer units needed)Small (more units per wall)
Installation SpeedFast (modular stacking)Slower (detailed laying)
Labour CostLower per m² installedHigher (more cuts, more joints)
Design FlexibilityLimited finishesWide range of textures/colours
Structural StrengthExcellent load-bearingStrong, but less mass per unit
MaintenanceMinimalEasy to replace individual units
Coastal DurabilityExcellent with correct mixGood with salt-resistant mortar

Concrete Blocks

Concrete blocks, sometimes called Besser blocks, are larger, heavier masonry units made from concrete. They’re often used in retaining walls, load-bearing walls, and structural elements. Coastal builders value them for their strength, modularity, and resistance to environmental stresses.

  • Where They Shine in Coastal Work:
  • Retaining walls for sloped sites
  • Structural walls in high-wind zones
  • Basements or sub-floor walls where moisture control is critical

Clay or Concrete Bricks

Bricks are smaller masonry units traditionally made from clay, but modern options also include concrete bricks with a variety of finishes. They’re popular for their classic aesthetic, design flexibility, and ability to be replaced individually if damaged.

Where They Shine in Coastal Work:

  • Visible façades
  • Feature walls
  • Projects where architectural style is a selling point

5 tips  to increase efficiency and not blow out the budget

1. Hybrid Approach
Use blocks for structural or non-visible walls and bricks for visible façades. This balances cost, speed, and appearance.

2. Modular Retaining Systems
Interlocking block systems reduce the need for mortar, speed up installation, and perform well in coastal retaining applications.

3. Local Sourcing
Buying from a nearby supplier like National Masonry Newcastle reduces delivery times, lowers freight costs, and cuts the risk of site delays.

4. Correct Mortar & Sealants
For both blocks and bricks, use salt-resistant mortar (AS3700: M4 class for severe exposure) and consider sealing to reduce water ingress.

5. Plan Your Take-Off Early
The earlier you lock in your masonry choice, the faster you can book trades, order stock, and coordinate deliveries.

Get your bricks and blocks through TAG today

National Masonry supplies a wide range of concrete blocks, bricks, pavers, and retaining wall products suited to coastal conditions, and that meet Australian Standards for strength and durability and what makes it even better… TAG handles the work.

Other Products Available:

  • Architectural textured blocks
  • Designer clay and concrete bricks
  • Retaining wall systems
  • Pavers for driveways, paths, and outdoor living
  • Mortars and masonry accessories

Call TAG Assist today and take advantage of one of the great prepaid deals available with TAG.

Book your blocks through TAG today..

They’ll help you choose the right blocks and bricks for your coastal build, schedule deliveries to match your site program, and keep your project on track from day one.

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