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Breeze Blocks - Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the purpose of a Breeze Block?

Breeze Blocks are decorative concrete masonry units that are used outdoors and indoors to divide spaces and provide privacy while maintaining view, add sun protection and heat reduction, while maintaining airflow.  Sometimes called Screen Blocks, Ventilation Blocks, Brise-Soleil or Cobogó, they can complement a diverse range of architectural styles. Breeze Blocks are ideal for both residential and commercial projects. The applications are virtually endless and can be used as curtain walls, room dividers, sun screens, and fencing. Unlike most masonry blocks, Breeze Blocks are non-structural, and must be externally reinforced. Please review our installation and care instructions for details. 

What is the difference between Tesselle Breeze Blocks and traditional breeze blocks?

At Tesselle, our Premium Breeze Blocks stand as true architectural masterpieces crafted by using a finer sand aggregate and advanced hydraulic presses.  These hand-made blocks redefine sophistication, departing from the coarse cast products of the past.. This meticulous process results in a refined block with sharp edges, ensuring identical appearance on both sides, (unless the blockl is intentionally dimensional). For asymmetrical patterns, opposite sides mirror each other, providing more design flexibility during installation.

In contrast, traditional breeze blocks are typically cast, exhibiting a much rougher texture. Many traditional blocks also have a distinct "back" side marked with machine impressions. 

Tesselle Premium Breeze Blocks vs Traditional Breeze Blocks

Choosing Tesselle Breeze Blocks means selecting not only style but also the ease of installation and a commitment to architectural excellence. 

How are Tesselle Breeze Blocks made?

Our breeze blocks are made from a dense mixture of cement and sand that is hydraulically pressed, forming a precisely sized product with a smooth, tailored, matte finish.

Where can I see examples of Breeze Block installations?

Visit the Tesselle Breeze Block Photo Gallery our story about Homes with Breeze Blocks in Palm Springs, or our Blog.

Does Tesselle carry Breeze Blocks in Stock?

Yes, we carry dozens of patterns, mostly in our Grey and White colors.  We have 6 additional colors (Saffron YellowJade GreenRiver BlueScarlet RedEspresso Brown and Coal Black) that are available by special order.  We keep our Breeze Block Category Pages sorted by the amount of square footage we have in stock, followed by unsold incoming stock.  All in stock and incoming products are available on a first-come basis.

What shapes and sizes are available in the Tesselle Breeze Block assortment?

All of our Breeze Blocks are square, and there are 2 sizes:  Large (11.4 x 11.4 x 3.5”) and Small (7.5 x 7.5 x 2.5”)

Can Breeze Blocks be load bearing?

No. Although our Breeze Blocks are made of a strong and dense material, the structures built with them need to have structural elements which may include standard masonry (cinder) blocks, rebar, steel posts and beams and poured concrete.  Please refer to our installation instructions for basic instructuons for walls up to 6' high and consult with a structural engineer for more ambitious projects.  In addition, always make sure that your plans conform to local building codes.

Can I order Breeze Block samples?

Yes.  We operate our sample program at a loss to allow customers to review one unit of the Breeze Block they are interested in before committing to a project.  We limit initial sample orders to 1 large (11.4") and 2 small Breeze (7.5") Blocks. For non-trade orders, we may call to qualify your project before sending samples.  Once you have received your sample, please contact us for a quote for your project order.  We regret that we cannot provide samples for purposes other than for evaluation for a design project.

Where is Tesselle’s Breeze Block warehouse?

Our warehouse is in Riverside, California.

Where can Tesselle Breeze Blocks be Shipped?

We can ship our Breeze Blocks to virtually any address in the lower contiguous United States.  The only exceptions are addresses that our network of freight partners cannot service (typically steep hills, unpaved roads, etc.).  In these cases, we will deliver to a close by, serviceable location.

Can I save on shipping and pick up my Breeze Blocks at the Tesselle warehouse in Riverside, CA?

Yes, when ordering Breeze Blocks from our website, choose “Local Pickup” at checkout, and the shipping charges will disappear.  Once the order is processed, we will send you a pickup slip with instructions.

What is the lead time if more Breeze Blocks are needed than are in stock?

Our typical lead time is currently at 12 weeks from order placement to delivery, however, we recommend that you contact us 16 weeks before you need the product at your jobsite.

What are the Breeze Blocks overage requirements?

We require a minimum of 15% overage or one extra bundle, whichever is greater.  This is to ensure that you can complete your installation, even if there are minor mishaps in shipping or on the jobsite. 

Are there minimums when ordering Breeze Blocks?

The minimum if you want to pickup at our warehouse in Riverside, CA is one bundle, which will include 12 small or 6 large Breeze Blocks.  If you require shipping, our minimums are indicated in the drop down menu, and cover approximately 30 square feet.  We can occasionally make an exception.  Please contact us with your request.  Discounts cannot be applied to orders that don't meet the minimum. Overage requirements will often result in extra blocks when the project is finished.  Read our blog post about ways to find a happy home for extra Breeze Blocks.

Do Breeze Blocks need a foundation?

Yes, Breeze Blocks installations need to be anchored to a firm foundation or footing. Please review our installation and care instructions.

How are Breeze Blocks installed?

Please review our installation and care instructions.

Can Tesselle Breeze Blocks be painted?

Yes.  Please click on the link to the installation and care instructions above, and scroll to the bottom of the page.

Can building a Breeze Block structure be a DIY project?

Typically not. We recommend that you engage with a professional mason or general contractor familiar with local codes to ensure that you are building a safe structure that meets your city requirements.  Visit our Find an Installer page to find a local pro.

What is the difference between concrete blocks and breeze blocks?
  • Concrete Blocks, often called concrete masonry units (CMUs) are found in load-bearing walls, foundations, and other structural elements of buildings. They are versatile and can be employed in various construction projects.

  • Breeze Blocks, which are decorative and non load bearing, are commonly used in architectural and landscaping applications where both aesthetics and functionality are desired. Breeze blocks are frequently used for creating decorative walls, partitions, or screens.  They are distinctive for their decorative patterns or openings. Breeze blocks are often used for aesthetic reasons, allowing for creative designs in walls or fences while still providing ventilation and light. Breeze block installations need structural elements to support them such as standard concrete blocks, steel posta and beams, rebar and mortar.

What is Tesselle's return policy?

In-stock orders may not be cancelled once they are shipped, but can be returned in original packaging and in like-new condition. A $100 or 30% restocking fee (whichever is greater) will be subtracted from original selling price. If the final order would have qualified for a lesser discount at the time of order, that difference will be subtracted. Return freight must be shipped on a pallet with industry standard wrapping with insurance and arranged by the customer, and refund will not be provided until product is received in our warehouse and inspected.  Small orders can be driven to the warehouse by the customer. Shipping charges are not refundable.  Please contact us at 951-781-3000 to arrange your return.

Custom orders cannot be cancelled once in production and cannot be returned or refunded except for defect.  Slight color variation or rough edges are inherent to the product and are not considered defects.  Please contact us immediately at 951-781-3000 to report defective or damaged product.

What is the history of the Breeze Block?

Architect Edward Durell Stone pioneered the technique of manufacturing these blocks from concrete materials and installing them in the 1950s, introducing them to the world with the unveiling of the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India in 1959.  Prior to Stone’s invention, similar sun protection solutions had been devised using materials such as metal and wood.  To learn more about the history of breeze blocks, read Concrete Screen Block by Ron and Barbara Marshall.

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