A Barrier to Nature’s Threats With concrete block on both levels, you’ll be protected from the damage of termites and dry rot. Homes built of wood-frame or partial wood-frame are more susceptible to the devastation of these two natural threats. Concrete block is also a better deterrent to the damage caused by tornadoes and hurricane force winds.   Reduced Insurance Premiums & Increased Appraisal Value Homes made of concrete are resistant to fire and they’re much stronger than traditional wood-frame homes. Insurance premiums for concrete block homes can be as much as 15% to 25% lower than those homes with a concrete/wood-frame mix. Plus, homes built with concrete block often appraise at a higher value than traditional wood-framed structures. Quiet Comfort Concrete block homes come with the added benefit of noise reduction. The combination of doublepane windows (standard), masonry insulated foam and concrete block, will mean your Veredas At North Shore home will be as much as two-thirds quieter than a traditional wood-frame structure.