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CMU Block Takeoff & Estimating Guide
Estimating the materials required for a concrete masonry project is an important step before construction begins. A CMU block takeoff is the process of determining how many concrete masonry units and related materials are required for a project based on the wall dimensions, openings, block sizes, bond pattern, and construction details. A proper CMU takeoff…
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CMU Block Corner & End Block Guide
Concrete masonry walls require careful planning at corners and wall ends because standard CMU units may not always provide the geometry or finished appearance required at these locations. Corner blocks and end blocks are specialized concrete masonry units that can help create clean wall corners and finished wall terminations. They can help with: The appropriate…
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CMU Sill & Sill Block Guide
CMU walls often include openings for windows and other exterior or interior applications. The area directly below a window opening requires careful planning because it must support the window, manage water, and connect properly with the surrounding masonry. A CMU sill is the horizontal surface or masonry component located at the bottom of a window…
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CMU Block Cap & Coping Guide
Concrete masonry walls are exposed to rain, snow, moisture, and changing weather conditions. The top of a CMU wall is particularly important because water can enter from above if the wall is not properly protected. CMU caps and coping are used to protect the top of masonry walls and help direct water away from the…
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CMU Block Bond Patterns Guide
Concrete masonry units (CMU) are installed in different patterns depending on the wall design, structural requirements, appearance, and construction method. The arrangement of CMU blocks is commonly referred to as the bond pattern. A proper bond pattern helps create a continuous masonry wall and can affect how individual units work together within the wall system.…
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CMU Block Absorption & Water Absorption Guide
Concrete Masonry Units (CMUs) are porous concrete products, so they can absorb and transmit water to some degree. Understanding CMU block absorption and water absorption is important when evaluating masonry quality, durability, moisture resistance, and suitability for different building applications. Water absorption is not simply a measure of whether a block is “good” or “bad.”…