Concrete blocks are approximately 16 inches tall "8" x 8" x 8" (410 mm x 200 mm x 200 mm). Bricks are a smaller masonry unit composed of clay rather than cement, with a conventional dimension of 3 1/2 "x 2 1/4" x 8" ".... Concrete blocks can be used in place of bricks to create a durable, non-combustible exterior surface. The quality and type of material used to make the blocks will determine how much they will cost to ship and what kind of construction techniques may be employed for different types of buildings. The amount of reinforcing that should go into a block depends on how it is intended to be used. A block intended to be placed as a wall anchor should have eight times more reinforcement than one used in a patio or walkway. Blocks used inside buildings require even more reinforcement because they must withstand greater pressures than those used outside. Concrete blocks are made by pouring wet concrete into forms shaped like the piece being produced. The forms prevent the liquid concrete from drying out while it is still soft enough to be worked with tools. When the concrete has set up enough to be self-supporting, it is taken out of the form and any excess water is removed by brushing or washing. Finally, the block is cured in a dry environment free from humidity and moisture vapor emissions for at least 28 days but no longer than 90 days.