Brick (clay)

Uses - Walls, paths, driveways

Advantages - Versatile, good thermal mass
Disadvantages - Production is energy-intensive and uses non-renewable resources.
Earth-wise tips - Look for recycled bricks.

Concrete

Uses - Floors, walls, supports

Advantages - High thermal mass, strong, durable, economical, resists termites and earthquakes

Disadvantages - Production involves quarrying and creates greenhouse emissions; poor insulator, needs reinforcing.
Earth-wise tips - Use autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC), which is lightweight, energy-efficient and non-toxic, or concrete made with recycled aggregate.