is it wise to buy a house made of concrete block. Would it be harder to sell in the future?Thank you.?

Question

Sorry. Have to mention it is London I am talking about. Where I guess most houses are maid of bricks.

Answer 1

It depends on where you live, I live in the Caribbean, and concrete block Houses just vaporized.

Answer 2

Wow varied answers.

I suspect a wood frame house would also vanish in certain levels of hurricanes.

I live in the United States, and have been in the business a long time. I hope that at some point in the future wood frame constrcution is either outlawed or becomes a NON CHOICE by my peers.

Concrete block is very popular and likely will be into the next century.

If I had a choice, and was going to build again, I'd construct a home of pre poured concrete slabs, galvanized steel studs, etc.

Or I might just be happy with a grass shack on a mountain side in Fiji,,,Smiles.

I think "sell" is an issue on an individual basis, in who prefers what type of construction. In even less than ideal climate/temp/weather/etc. situations, block holds up longer and truly requires less maintenance.

As important to a buyer is size, style, location, etc. Many care less about the substance than I might.

Rev. Steven

Answer 3

Concrete block is not an inert material like brick. It absorbes moisture and expands and contracts with the weather. this can cause all sorts of problems with things cracking, water getting in, etc. Also it is a much cheaper material and does not require much skill to build with - so concrete block buildings tend to be poorly constructed. Also, because it is not an appropriate material for the finished exterior of a building it tends to be used in what is called cavity wall construction, which is a very unsound way of building. So no, it is not wise. Buy something made out of brick.

I might add that I am an architect and i live and work in London. Personally I recommend NEVER buying anything that is new build (or of non-traditional construction) if you don't have to. The construction quality and quality of space is far superior in Victorian and Georgian buildings so given the choice, there really is no reason to go modern. You can see the result in the property prices of flats - as in converted terrace houses versus ex-council flats of modern construction. Old buildings built with traditional methods and materials age gracefully and only become more charming, whereas modern buildings tend to loose their luster and eventually fall apart.

Answer 4

block capped w/ 24" concret tie beam, in combination w/ a hip roof , is the strongest structure against high winds!( hurricanes)
if thats what is built in your area it's cool!

Answer 5

I would never consider anything else but of course it depends on where this house is.

Answer 6

no, and yes