CMU walls are one of the most common types of walls in large buildings and skyscrapers. They are strong, long-lasting, and one of the safest types of walls in modern architecture. So it’s no wonder they are so popular.
CMU walls are built with concrete blocks called cinder blocks and they come in so many more shapes and sizes that you can imagine. They are more versatile and cheaper than bricks, which is also a common industrial wall type.
What Is A CMU Wall?
A CMU wall is a wall made of CMUs or concrete masonry units. These units are also called cinder blocks are used to construct concrete walls and buildings. They aren’t often used in residential homes, but they can be.
CMUs can be quite useful for homeowners and there are many projects you can do with them. Check out these cinder block projects for inspiration and ideas that you can take on with any budget at all.
Types Of CMUs
Though there are different types of glazes, finishes, and colors of CMUs, the main way to sort them is by type. Which would be the shape of them and the way they are used. Take a look at all the different types of CMUs available.
Keep in mind that knowing what each one does isn’t important for most people. Because masons already know each type and what they are for, you can ask the one that installs your CMU wall to teach you their uses.
Stretcher
The stretcher block is the one you will see most often. It is a simple cinder block with four lips. Two coming from each end. This gives room for mortar between them, making for a stronger hold. They are the most common type of CMU.
Kerf
The kerf block is similar to a stretcher block but the ends are flat. Instead, a small slit is cut in the center of the block and all six sides are completely flat. The two large holes are still apparent on the inside.
Double Corner
A double corner looks just like a kerf block but doesn’t have the slit in the center. It is flat all the way around without any protrusions or holes save for the two large holes in the center that give it a lightweightness.
Single Corner
A single corner block is like a double corner block only one side has a stretcher end. This gives it to protrusions on one side while the other side remains flat. The two large holes are still present as always.
Open End
An open-end CMU block allows for vertical reinforcing by opening one end which gives space for different types of reinforcements. One end is just like a kerf block while the other is open, the block looking like an A from the top.
Double Open End
The double open-end block looks like an H from the top and has two open ends. It also allows for vertical reinforcing But isn’t as structurally strong as closed-end blocks or even a single open-end block.
Bond Beam
A bond beam allows for horizontal reinforcing and has a dip on top as if someone ran an ice cream scoop through the top, leaving the sides alone. This gives a lot of room for horizontal reinforcements.
Knockout Bond Beam
The knockout bond beam blocks are made to go along with bond beams. They have slits that allow mason to locate horizontal reinforcing by viewing them through the slits or knocking out the spaces easily.
U Lintel
A U lintel looks like a U from the end and allows for a lot of horizontal reinforcement. But it isn’t as structurally strong as a bond beam so it hasn’t completely replaced the bond beam even though it allows more room for reinforcements.
Sash
The sash block is a popular block because it allows joint control for doors and window frames. There are slits on each end in the center that you can place next to a frame and have it places securely even without mortar.
Bullnose
Bullnose blocks have one rounded corner that can be used on the corners of buildings for a rounder look or to prevent accidents caused by sharp corners. They look quite nice compared to the square blocks.
Scored
Scored blocks have slits in them that allow for a more secure setting with mortar or to allow rebar and other materials to set more securely. The number of scores varies based on the needs of the mason.
Ribbed
Ribbed blocks have slits like scored blocks but they always have multiple slits whereas the scored ones only need one to be considered scored. The ribbed CMU blocks give a lot of room for the mortar to stick to.
Column
Column blocks are C-shaped if looking from above and are usually used to make columns. They are often placed with their open ends together to create a perfectly square concrete block when mortar is applied.
Column With Pilaster
Columns with pilasters are just like column blocks with a square on the outside of each one on top. They look like Ps with a C back to back. They are very unique CMUs with limited used, though they can create gorgeous architecture.
How CMU Walls Are Installed
CMU walls are installed by stacking the blocks one by one as if they were bricks and using mortar to adhere them to one another. This is just like building a LEGO wall as a child with large LEGOs. Only each type of CMU works differently.
While traditionally mortar is used, there are certain types of blocks, as previously mentioned, that can lock into each other and work without mortar. In any case, galvanized steel is usually used to support them from the inside.
Even though it sounds simple, it is important that a professional mason install CMU walls. Because even if they aren’t load-bearing walls, it could be catastrophic if one would fall over, crushing anything beneath it.
Why Use CMU Walls
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CMU walls are one of the strongest types of walls you can have. They also don’t require much maintenance and can withstand most storms, including hurricanes. Not to mention, they are much cheaper than bricks.
Here is a complete list of everything we love about CMU walls:
- Price – concrete blocks are much cheaper than most other similar structures. So you can build a CMU wall for quite cheap. On average, you can buy a cinder block for less than $5 each. Probably much less.
- Strength – there’s not much that can take a CMU wall down. They are one of the strongest types of walls you can have and are perfect for areas with dangerous weather. Storm shelters are often made of CMUs.
- Lifespan – because they are so strong, CMU walls can last centuries. Though most of them aren’t that old yet, they will likely last through multiple generations, especially if installed by a professional.
- Fireproof – CMUs are fireproof and work as a great fire barrier to protect your family from expanding fires. They can stop fires short, unlike wood walls which struggle even with treatments to make them fire-resistant.
- Insulating – although it may seem like CMU walls will conduct heat and cold, they actually work well to insulate a room due to their thickness. If insulation is added as you build the wall, you’ll have an energy-efficient room.
- Environmentally Friendly – CMUs are usually made with natural, non-harmful materials so they are safe for humans and the environment. This can’t be said for every type of building material.
- Simple Installation – although you should have a professional install the CMU walls, they can get them done quicker than if they were using stone. This is because the blocks are large and symmetrical.
Why Not To Use CMU Walls
There really aren’t that many negatives to CMU walls. But they do have their drawbacks. For example, they tend to absorb moisture. This can be prevented with a moisture barrier as a glaze applied to the blocks.
CMU walls also take up a lot of room and can be quite bulky. They look modern, or industrial, as well so they don’t fit every design style. And finally, it’s difficult to make changes or even install windows in CMU walls.
With wooden walls, you can take them apart if need be but CMU walls need to be demolished to make changes that could affect the structure of the home. So what you install is what you will have to live with.
Are CMU Walls Right For Me?
This all depends on what you’re looking for. If you prioritize safety from storms and seek long-lasting materials, then CMU walls could be perfect for you. But if you care more about aesthetics, then they may be better for your storm shelter alone.
Although some people do like the look of CMU walls, they kind of box in your design style. They work for some styles but tend to not work as well with more farmhouse or beachy looks. But that doesn’t mean you can’t experiment!
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