Concrete masonry units (CMUs) are rectangular blocks made from Portland cement and an aggregate, with high-density or lower-density options. They can be reinforced with steel and come in various shapes, textures, and colors. CMUs are commonly used in utility and domestic construction as foundation blocks due to their strength and cost-effectiveness. Bricklayers work with CMUs and are familiar with their properties and adaptations.
Common cinder block is known in the concrete industry as a concrete masonry unit. Usually the unit designation is abbreviated as CMU. The typical concrete masonry unit is a rectangular block fabricated from Portland cement and an aggregate, most often sand or filtered gravel. This process produces a high density concrete block.
Concrete masonry units can be actual high-density concrete blocks or they can be lower-density concrete blocks fabricated from fly or bottom ash aggregate. Additionally, there are clinker blocks, which are manufactured from smelting waste aggregates, usually coal, coke, slag or sand. Aerated concrete can be used in the production of very strong, yet relatively lightweight concrete masonry units. However, the prohibitive cost makes the use of aerated CMUs quite rare.
The most common concrete masonry unit is considered to be 8 inches by 8 inches by 16 inches (20 cm by 20 cm by 41 cm). In reality, all CMUs are 3/8 inch (1 cm) smaller all the way around to allow for a layer of mortar between blocks. In the UK, where the typical concrete masonry unit is known as a breeze block, the dimensions are significantly different at 17.3 inches by 8.5 inches by 3.9 inches (44 cm by 21.5 cm by 10 cm).
Ordinary concrete masonry unit usually has two or three holes in the unit, which are sometimes called cores. These holes, or cores, perform a number of functions, including weight cutting and as an insulation factor. Additionally, steel reinforcement is often inserted into the center holes to provide added strength and stability to a concrete block load-bearing wall. On smaller structures, the holes can be filled with gravel or sand for the same purpose.
Concrete masonry units, while primarily used in utility structures, are often employed in domestic construction as foundation blocks. Concrete block foundations are strong, stable and most importantly, much cheaper than brick, stone or poured concrete foundations. Their only drawback may be the tastelessness of the coating. Stucco, paint, plaster, etch, or veneer, however, can be used to enhance the appearance of concrete block foundations and walls. Additionally, concrete masonry units can be produced in almost unlimited shapes, textures and colors.
An individual who works with CMUs is commonly known as a bricklayer. The essentials of masonry, of course, involve mortar and masonry products, such as bricks and cinder blocks. All masons are familiar with the various construction properties, limitations and adaptations of a particular type of concrete masonry unit.
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