Build Strong: Your Complete Guide to Bricks & Concrete Blocks — Where to Buy and How to Choose

Why bricks and concrete blocks still matter in modern building

Bricks and concrete blocks are the workhorses of construction — reliable, durable, and surprisingly versatile. Whether you’re building a garden wall, a chimney, or the foundation of a garage, these materials deliver long-term performance and a timeless look. Think of bricks and blocks as the backbone of a project: they may not be flashy, but they keep everything standing straight and true. If you want a structure that ages like a fine piece of furniture rather than a flimsy cardboard box, you’re leaning on the right materials.

Common types of bricks and blocks

Not all bricks and blocks are created equal. Different jobs call for different products, so it pays to know what’s on the shelf before you buy.

Clay bricks (facing and common)

Clay bricks offer classic aesthetics and color variation. Facing bricks are used where appearance matters — exterior walls and façades — while common bricks are typically hidden inside structural walls. Clay bricks are fired and measured in inches; a standard modular brick is roughly 8 inches long, 3 5/8 inches wide, and 2 1/4 inches tall, though you’ll see slight variations.

Concrete masonry units (CMUs)

CMUs, often called concrete blocks or cinder blocks, are molded from cement and aggregate. A standard full block is commonly 8 inches by 8 inches by 16 inches and is favored for foundations, retaining walls, and load-bearing work. They’re heavier than clay bricks and offer strong compressive strength measured in pounds per square inch.

Lightweight and autoclaved aerated blocks

Lightweight concrete blocks and autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) are easier to handle and offer improved thermal performance. These are great when you want reduced weight without sacrificing much strength, and they cut faster with common tools — a helpful trait on tight job sites.

Paving bricks and thin brick veneer

Paving bricks and thin veneers are designed for decorative surfaces like patios, walkways, and interior accent walls. Thin brick veneers allow you to get the brick look without the weight and structural considerations of full bricks.

Sizes, weights, and what they mean for your project

Size matters in masonry. Standard brick dimensions translate to a certain number of pieces required per square foot, and block sizes determine wall thickness and insulation characteristics. For example, an 8 x 8 x 16 inch CMU covers nearly 1 square foot of wall surface, but mortar joints and cut pieces change the final count. A quick mental rule: estimate slightly more than your simple calculation to allow for cuts, waste, and breakage.

Where to buy bricks and concrete blocks in the US (national options)

For most DIYers and contractors, national chains offer convenience, predictable inventory, and competitive pricing. These outlets are a good starting point when you want to compare options quickly.

The Home Depot

The Home Depot carries a broad range of bricks, CMUs, and related masonry supplies. You’ll find options for landscaping, foundations, and veneers, along with mortar mixes and tools. Their in-store pickup and local stock checking make planning easier, and if you’re doing more than a single pallet, you can arrange larger deliveries to the job site.

Lowe’s

Lowe’s is another big-box option with a similar selection. Lowe’s tends to stock popular block sizes and a variety of clay and concrete bricks for patios and walls. They also offer project guides and product reviews from other buyers — useful when you want a second opinion from someone who installed the same brick.

Walmart

Walmart sometimes stocks small quantities of landscaping bricks, blocks, and protective covers, which is handy for small home projects. While Walmart is not a specialized masonry supplier, it can be a convenient source for patio bricks, garden block kits, and basic mortar mix when you need to grab a few items quickly.

Menards and Ace Hardware

Menards and Ace Hardware serve regions where local availability or smaller purchases matter. Ace often carries landscaping bricks and supplies geared toward homeowners, while Menards can be a cost-effective source in the Midwest with a reliable selection of block sizes and masonry accessories.

Specialty suppliers, manufacturers, and local masonry yards

When your project calls for large quantities, custom colors, or specific performance characteristics, local masonry yards and manufacturer-direct suppliers are your best bet. These specialists often stock a wider range of clay brick blends, decorative units, and structural blocks, and they’ll advise on deliveries for big jobs.

Builders FirstSource, BMC, and other dealers

Large building material dealers like Builders FirstSource and BMC focus on professionals and can handle bulk orders of CMUs, facing brick, and specialized units. They may also offer jobsite delivery and scheduling to sync with your construction timeline, which is a huge help on larger builds.

Independent masonry suppliers and family-run yards

Local masonry yards are treasure troves for unique textures and discontinued colors. These independent suppliers often work closely with masons and can recommend blends or reclaimed materials that add character. If you want a brick that isn’t cookie-cutter, start calling the neighborhood yards.

How to compare prices and calculate how much you need

Price comparison starts with the unit: price per brick or price per block. But savvy buyers look beyond the sticker. Consider delivery, waste allowance, mortar, and whether you need special units for corners or openings. Always overestimate slightly — about 5% to 10% — to account for cuts and breakage.

Estimating by square footage

To estimate the number of bricks: measure the wall area in square feet, then multiply by your bricks-per-square-foot estimate. For a typical wall, you might work with roughly 7 bricks per square foot for standard modular facing bricks. So a 10-foot by 8-foot wall (80 square feet) would need around 560 bricks, plus extra for cuts and waste.

Estimating blocks

For CMUs, a single 8 x 8 x 16 inch block roughly covers 0.9 to 1.0 square foot of wall face depending on mortar width. Use that to multiply by wall area and round up. If your design uses half-blocks or bond beams, include those in your count and budget.

Essential tools and mortar mixes to pair with your bricks and blocks

Buying bricks is only half the battle. The right tools and mortar will keep your project moving and ensure a clean, durable finish.

Mortar types and mixes

Type N mortar is common for above-grade walls and general masonry projects; Type S is stronger and better for load-bearing or below-grade work. Mortar comes premixed in bags or as individual components (lime, cement, sand) you mix onsite. Use the recommended mix for your brick and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid common failures like cracking or poor adhesion.

Must-have tools

Expect to use a trowel, jointer, mason’s hammer, level, masonry saw or block splitter, and wheelbarrow. For larger jobs add scaffolding and a block cart. Renting specialized equipment like a mortar mixer or wet saw can save time if you don’t want to buy gear you’ll only use once.

Installation basics: what to watch for

Whether you’re a DIYer or managing a crew, small details make a big difference in masonry. Proper footing, drainage, and expansion joints protect the wall over decades. Keep your foundation square and level, use a consistent mortar joint width, and check the plumb frequently. Masonry is a lot like baking: precise measurements and timing yield a better result.

Color, texture, and design choices

Bricks come in a rainbow of earthy tones: reds, browns, tans, and greys. Texture ranges from tumbled and wire-cut to smooth and glazed. Your choice affects style and maintenance. Want a rustic farmhouse vibe? Go with tumbled or textured bricks. Prefer modern minimalism? Smooth, uniform concrete blocks or thin veneers create a sleek look with less fuss.

Environmental considerations and recycled materials

If sustainability is important to you, ask suppliers about recycled content and local manufacturing. Using locally produced bricks cuts transport emissions and supports local jobs. Recycled concrete and reclaimed bricks can add character while reducing the environmental footprint of your project.

Maintenance tips to keep your masonry lasting for decades

Masonry is low maintenance but not maintenance-free. Keep mortar joints intact, allow proper drainage to avoid water pooling, and replace cracked or spalled units promptly. A little preventive care — like cleaning runoff stains and checking weep holes — can stretch decades into a century. Masonry ages gracefully when you treat it right.

How to choose the right supplier for your project

Start with the scope of your project. For a small garden wall, big-box stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menards, and even Walmart can be convenient and budget-friendly. For larger or specialized projects, contact local masonry yards or manufacturer reps to compare color options, lead times, and bulk pricing. Ask about delivery logistics and whether the supplier can stage materials at the jobsite in a way that minimizes handling.

Safety and handling — carrying bricks the smart way

Bricks and blocks are heavy. A single CMU can weigh 30 to 40 pounds, and a pallet can be a small mountain. Lift with your legs, use gloves to protect against abrasions, and consider block carts or forklift delivery for large loads. Treat masonry like moving a piano: plan your route, use helpers, and avoid sudden moves that can lead to injury.

Trends and innovations in masonry

Masonry keeps evolving. You’ll find insulated blocks that improve energy performance, manufactured veneers that mimic old-world bricks, and lighter-weight materials that cut labor time. The aesthetic possibilities expand every year, so don’t be surprised when you find a look that gives traditional brick a modern twist.

Final checklist before you buy

Before you click “purchase” or drive to the yard, run through a quick checklist: measure twice, decide on a mortar type, confirm the number of specialty pieces (corners, lintels), and account for 5% to 10% waste. Make sure the supplier can meet your timeline and has a return or exchange path for mismatched or damaged units — even the best suppliers occasionally ship a pallet with a few bad pieces.

With the right planning and a reliable supplier, brick and block projects are incredibly rewarding. They add tangible value, curb appeal, and a sense of permanence to your property — like planting an oak tree that becomes someone else’s shade years down the road.

Whether you buy from a national chain like The Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menards, or Walmart for convenience, or a masonry yard for custom work and bulk orders, understanding the basics will save you time and money. Happy building!