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Concrete blocks also come in half-sizes, which are helpful in reducing the need to cut blocks in the field at
corners or the end of walls. The architect should always attempt to design buildings using the nominal
dimensions to the nearest half-block size to reduce waste and labor due to cut blocks.
The following table provides concrete block sizes in both nominal and actual dimensions. While 4", 6", 8", 10",
and 12" are the standard sizes, some manufacturers offer other sizes not listed below.
Concrete Masonry Unit (CMU) Specifications
CMU manufacturers must conform to ASTM standards when fabricating concrete blocks. The standards
identify appropriate materials, compressive strength, dimensional tolerance, moisture absorption, and other
performance characteristics.
Concrete brick is made from concrete similar to concrete block, but concrete bricks are fabricated in sizes that
match traditional clay bricks (i.e. 2 2/3" tall).
The weight of concrete masonry units varies depending on the density of concrete mix used. There are three
classifications of CMU: lightweight (less than 105 lb/ft3), medium weight (between 105 lb/ft3 and 125 lb/ft, and
normal weight (more than 125 lb/ft3. Lighter CMUs are less expensive, require less labor to install, and tend to
have better fire resistance properties. Heavier units tend to reduce sound transmission, have much higher
compressive strengths, and have greater thermal storage capacity; however, they are more expensive and cost
more to install. Architects must specify the CMU weight if a particular weight is required.
The following table provides the ASTM standards that apply to concrete masonry units. ASTM C90 covers
most conventional CMU construction and is the standard referenced by the ICC codes.
Concrete Masonry Unit (CMU) Shapes
There are an almost infinite number of CMU shapes available. The images below cover the most common
shapes, but you should check with your local CMU manufacturer if you need special shapes or finishes.
Kerf
Concrete Masonry Unit (CMU) Surface Finishes
As with shapes, there are a large number of finish options so you can make the utilitarian gray concrete block
look much more aesthetically pleasing. Be sure to meet with your local CMU representative to learn about what
types of finishes they offer and at what cost premium.
Colored CMU
Pigments can be added to both the concrete block as well as the mortar. The allows for the block and mortar to
blend together or to have a sharp contrast. Keep in mind that there will be a natural variation in the color of the
CMUs, even if they come from the same manufacturing batch. Therefore, it is important that the architect
review at least 3 sample blocks that demonstrate the expected color variation.
If the color needs to be consistent or exact, you may consider painting the block and mortar. Painting is
generally done on the interior, but can also be accomplished on exterior surfaces. Be sure to work with your
CMU manufacturer and paint supplier to select the right paint for your situation.
Glazed CMU
Glazed CMU has a tile-like glazed finish made from a resin-based coating. The coating offers a wide variety of
color as well as some faux material patterns. These surfaces may offer improved resistance to graffiti and
chemicals. Glazed CMU is covered via ASTM C744, but the blocks still need to adhere to the ASTM C90
standard for load bearing CMU.
Ribbed or scored units (graphics above in the Shapes section) can also have a split faced finish to add more
texture.
Soft-Split CMU
Soft-Split CMU is made with special molds that create a split-faced appearance instead of mechanically
splitting the blocks. The effect is a bit less rough than split faced. In addition, the mold means that aggregates
are not exposed.
Raked CMU
Raked (or Striated) units have vertical rake marks introduced during the molding process. The rake marks are
not as deep as the scored or ribbed blocks identified above in the Shapes section, but they do add an appealing
texture to the block. You can also specify that scored or ribbed blocks have an additional raked pattern applied
for more texture.
REFERENCE/S: https://www.archtoolbox.com/materials-systems/masonry/concblocksizes.html
https://www.slideshare.net/vijay1230/04-masonry