Concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls are made of standard-sized rectangular blocks that are used to build buildings. CMU is the most versatile building material because it can be used to create so many different looks. Using concrete masonry unit walls will save time.
These walls have a variety of patterns and textures. This makes them not only interesting options for exterior and interior walls, but also reliable options for a strong foundation.
What are CMU walls used for?
CMU walls are mostly used for two things. They make the foundation of walls stronger and are also used to make buildings look nicer. They come in a variety of pretty and decorative finishes that designers and builders look at to get the look they want for the project as a whole. Some CMU blocks already have designs on them, but others can be decorated after they are put in place. Many architects use these blocks as part of their design to make a certain look. Also Read: Best Gutter Sealer
CMU Wall Structures
There are CMU walls everywhere. CMU walls can be used for foundation and basement walls, exterior walls, load-bearing walls, interior walls, landscape retaining walls, and even accent walls.
CMUs are bigger than bricks and stronger than wood. This means that a wall made of CMUs can be built faster and last longer than other types of walls. Because concrete is so strong in compression, CMU walls can also hold up heavy loads on top, even though they may be much thicker.
Even though water tends to soak into CMUs, the problem is lessened by making them out of water-resistant materials or coating them with sealants. Also Read: Exterior Concrete Wall Finishes
Building a CMU Wall
For a CMU wall to work, whether it's inside or outside, the blocks must connect with mason mortar or "lock" together. There are many different ways to put CMUs together to make retaining walls. Plan carefully to figure out how many of each kind of block you will need.
A CMU wall needs to be built on a solid base. For a basement wall, there needs to be a concrete foundation under the wall. Gravel and sand that have been pressed together work well for a wall in a garden. Put down one block at a time and use mortar to connect them to finish the first row. Use mortar to connect the blocks in the row below to make the next row. As you build, use jamb and lintel blocks to make space for windows and doors.
Why Use Concrete Blocks
A concrete block wall can give a garden or other outdoor space more height and depth. They are solid, but they are hollow. This makes the bricks lighter, which makes the wall more stable. The concrete block is made so that when the wall or building is put up, rebar can be put in the centre of the block to strengthen it. About half of the block's volume is taken up by these hollow cores, which come in sets of either two or three. This can be important if you want to build something tall without worrying that it will fall over from its own weight.
Cinder blocks are another name for blocks made of concrete. They are also arranged by a code called CMU, which stands for concrete masonry units. Also Read: Leaf Filter Vs Leaf Guard
