A lightweight concrete block manufactured using clinker or ash as the aggregate instead of sand and gravel. In many regions, the term is used casually by tradespeople to describe any standard hollow concrete masonry unit, regardless of its actual aggregate composition. They are highly porous, easy to cut, and hold nails well, but lack the structural strength of dense concrete blocks.
Heard on the job
Stack those breeze blocks by the mixer so we can start the partition wall.
Insider tip
Never use a true breeze block for load-bearing foundation walls, as they are prone to moisture absorption and lower compressive strength.
Also heard as
- clinker block
- cinder block
Do not mix it up with
- CMU: A CMU is the formal term for a concrete block, whereas breeze block is an older or regional nickname often referring specifically to ash-based blocks.