#Concrete block dimensions manual#

To achieve consistent mortar from batch to batch, the same quantities of materials should be added to the mixer, and they should be added in the same order. 9), contains further information on this method of construction. TEK 3-5A, Surface Bonded Concrete Masonry Construction (ref. In addition, the surface bonding coating provides excellent rain penetration resistance. This construction method results in faster construction, and is less dependent on the skill of the laborer than mortared construction. Shims or ground units are used to maintain elevations. The alternative to mortared construction is dry-stacked (also called surface bonded) construction, where units are placed without any mortar, then both surfaces of the wall are coated with surface bonding material. 3), shows a variety of bond patterns and describes their characteristics. TEK 14-6, Concrete Masonry Bond Patterns (ref. Although stack bond typically refers to masonry constructed so that the head joints are vertically aligned, it is defined as masonry laid such that the head joints in successive courses are horizontally offset less than one quarter the unit length (ref. The most traditional bond pattern for concrete masonry is running bond, where vertical head joints are offset by half the unit length.Įxcluding running bond construction, the most popular bond pattern with concrete masonry units is stack bond. In addition, the strength of the masonry can be influenced by the bond pattern. Varying the bond or joint pattern of a concrete masonry wall can create a wide variety of interesting and attractive appearances.

Most concrete masonry construction is mortared construction, i.e., units are bonded together with mortar. Specifications governing material requirements are listed in Table 1.ĬONSTRUCTION METHODS Mortared Construction Reinforcement incorporated into concrete masonry structures increases strength and ductility, providing increased resistance to applied loads and, in the case of horizontal reinforcement, to shrinkage cracking. Grout is most commonly used in reinforced construction, to structurally bond the steel reinforcing bars to the masonry, allowing the two elements to act as one unit in resisting loads. Grout is used to fill masonry cores or wall cavities to improve the structural performance and/or fire resistance of masonry. In addition, mortar seals joints against moisture and air leakage and bonds to joint reinforcement, anchors, and ties to help ensure all elements perform as a unit. Mortar bonds the individual masonry units together, allowing them to act as a composite structural assembly. While mortar constitutes approximately 7% of a typical masonry wall area, its influence on the performance of a wall is significant. 4) illustrates a broad sampling of available units.

#Concrete block dimensions manual#

The Concrete Masonry Shapes and Sizes Manual (ref.

In addition, concrete masonry units are manufactured in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and architectural finishes achieve any number of appearances and functions. Concrete masonry units provide strength, durability, fire resistance, energy efficiency, and sound attenuation to a wall system. The constituent masonry materials: concrete block, mortar, grout, and steel, each contribute to the performance of a masonry structure.