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#Concrete masonry unit calculator full#

While water makes the mortar susceptible to wearing down and becoming unstable, there are corrective measures that can be taken to reduce these risks. Larger blocks allow for the bricks to be laid faster and at a lesser expense. When opting for a CMU wall versus other methods, keep in mind that CMUs are much larger in size than traditional bricks. Multiple other uses for CMUs exist, including: Mortar is also susceptible to water and weather wear which really demands additional support to be constructed properly.

Air and moisture barriers may need to be added, and if not reinforced properly, the wall can be weak.

When heavy vertical loads are needed, the compression strength of CMUs offer optimal support.īut there are some downsides, including the blocks being heavy.

Steel rebar can also be inserted to provide additional strength.Mortar can be poured inside of the blocks to add to their strength and durability.Running bond patterns may be used, and to increase the strength and durability of the block, steel bars may be placed inside of the blocks.Ī few of the benefits to creating a CMU foundation wall are: If higher weight loads are needed, the blocks may be thicker to support these walls. Foundation Wallsīuilding weight load will dictate the size of the CMU blocks used in a foundation, but they’re generally 16” long with a width of 8” to 10”. Uses for CMU BlocksĬMU construction has its perks and drawbacks depending on the type of walls that need to be erected. So, all cinder blocks are CMUs, but not all CMUs are cinder blocks. When a CMU uses cinders as an aggregate material, the blocks are called cinder blocks. The actual sizes are 3/8” less than the nominal dimensions to allow for mortar joints between the blocks.Ĭinder Block vs CMU: What’s the Difference?Īre cinder blocks and CMUs the same thing? Yes, and no. It’s important to keep in mind that the sizes listed above are the nominal sizes – not the actual sizes. Some manufacturers may have their own unique size options that are not listed above.

#Concrete masonry unit calculator full#

Full blocks are 16” long, and half-blocks are just 8” long. Here’s a rundown of the nominal dimensions for each standard size (listed as D x H x L):Īs you can see, the only measurements that change are the depths and lengths. Each of these standard sizes come in full block and half-block sizes. Common CMU Block SizesĬMU blocks come in a wide range of sizes, but the standard depth sizes are 4”, 6”, 8”, 10” and 12”. Some manufacturers may offer different styles. These are some of the most common styles of CMU blocks used in construction.

Bullnose Stretcher Unit: A block that has its edges rounded off.

“L” Corner Unit: Finishes an outside corner and is designed to be viewed from three sides.

Open Bottom Bond Beam Unit: These blocks are similar to the closed bottom units, but the bottoms are open.

This creates a channel for reinforcing steel.

Closed Bottom Bond Beam Unit: A hollow block that has parts of the crosswebs and ends formed.

Split Wide Stretcher Unit: Has four sections with a decorative pattern.

Stretcher with Score Unit: Designed to be viewed end on and to look like a regular brick.

These blocks are hollow and may be larger in size to create a stronger appearance.

Quion Corner Unit: A decorative block used at the ends of concrete block walls.

There are several types of CMU blocks, including: Their high durability makes them a great fit for residential, commercial and industrial projects. They offer a number of advantages over other materials, including:Ĭoncrete blocks come in a variety of styles and sizes to suit any project. Incorporating recycled materials into the mix can change the overall look of the block and may be used to help the building get LEED certification.ĬMU blocks have been an integral part of masonry structures for decades.

Aggregates, such as sand, grave, fly ash or bottom ashīlocks may also incorporate recycled materials into the mix, such as slag cement or recycled glass.

They are designed to be used in a variety of situations, from low-rise residential buildings to high-rise commercial and industrial structures.īut what exactly is a CMU block? What types are available and are they any different from cinder blocks? What is a CMU Block?Ī CMU block is an environmentally friendly building material made from: They are also known as CMUs, and they are manufactured from cement and other ingredients to form a solid, durable block.ĬMUs are used to create walls and floors in both residential and commercial structures. Concrete masonry units are a great alternative to traditional brick or stone.