Expert: Richard Taylor, AIA - 10/10/2006

Question
Seattle, WA
we are looking at a cinderblock home (1948)to purchase (home appears to be in good condition, no cracks noted). what are the pros and cons of this type of construction, the heating issues (oil and fireplace), and any other major issues we need to consider. Thanks.

Answer
Hi Janet - thanks for your question!

I assume we're talking about a home with block walls, concrete floors, and a wood roof structure, correct?

A home of this construction, of this age, probably doesn't have any insulation in the walls - that could cause a waste of energy, but there's little than can be done to inexpensively insulate block walls.

If the windows are 1948 however, you can help yourself a great deal by replacing them.  You will see a very noticeable difference in heating bills.

The attic is a place where more insulation can make a big difference in heating costs - add more if you can!

The fireplace should be checked by a pro for leaks in the flue - can be a fire hazard - and for poor drafting which can draw heat out through the chimney.

This type of construction is usually difficult to remodel, since the walls are so solid.  It's expensive to install additional electrical and plumbing in block walls, and even hard to hang pictures!  Also, block construction homes usually feel cooler and damper than wood-framed homes (but what difference does that make in Seattle?).

On the plus side, they're pretty much incombustible (except for the roof structure)!

Your local utility company can help a lot here - they'll usually do a free energy analysis for you and tell you where you're wasting energy in the house.  There are also state and federal programs to help you bear the cost of making energy-efficient changes to the house.

Hope this helps!

Richard Taylor, AIA
Richard Taylor Architects, LLC
www.rtastudio.com