Concrete Block Styles

Split-faced Concrete Blocks

• These units possess a natural texture that resembles real stone. To achieve this look, manufacturers take two hollow blocks of concrete and mold them so they are facing each other. A machine that resembles a guillotine then splits them lengthwise, creating a fractured finish. Blocks go into a kiln where they are cured using heat. Sometimes manufacturers can also score the blocks, carving them with deep, vertical lines.

Scored Concrete Blocks

• Scored concrete blocks are manufactured to mimic the appearance of extra mortar joints in a wall made of concrete masonry. To achieve this effect, manufacturers score the blocks with one or more vertical lines on the outward facing surface. Walls built using scored concrete blocks are the standard size, but the vertical scores make them appear smaller once grouped together.

Ribbed or Fluted Concrete Blocks

• These concrete blocks possess four, six or eight vertical grooves that are deep enough to create a rugged texture. The raised portions are often called ribs and can have square or rounded edges. Manufacturers create ribbed or fluted concrete blocks using the same process as split-faced blocks; however, they use an unusual mold that create the ribs.

Ground-face Concrete Blocks

• Manufactuers polish the surface of normal concrete blocks to produce ground-face concrete blocks. Not only does this process create a smooth textured surface, but it also reveals the natural colors hidden beneath the block's exterior. Manufacturers experiment with the size and type of the concrete to produce different effects.

Slump or Overhanging Concrete Blocks

• These concrete blocks possess a swollen or deformed appearance. Manufacturers achieve this look by using concrete mixes that contain more moisture than normal. They then apply pressure to the top of the block so that it becomes distorted.