Why use masonry?
MASONRY IS A GREAT CHOICE FOR A BUILDING MATERIAL AND HAS BEEN USED THROUGH OUT HISTORY ON PROJECTS THAT LAST FOR HUNDREDS OF YEARS. Because of its longevity masonry has extremely low maintenance costs over the lifespan of a building, making it extremely cost effective over time. Masonry is also a Sustainable Material and qualifies for LEED credits. For more information on the benefits of masonry got to: https://whymasonry.org/
What is a rainscreen system?
A rainscreen is a typical construction term referring to having a drainage plane behind the exterior veneer where water that gets through is drained back out. In a masonry rainscreen a through wall flashing and weeps are installed at the base of the wall, and at any interruptions in the cavity drainage plane, to allow water out to drain back out.
How much mortar do I need per square foot of brick?
- 2-1/2” x 7.5” Standard brick = 4 sf per 80lb bag
- 2-1/2” x 11.5” Norman brick = 5 sf per 80lb bag
- 3-1/2” x 11.5” Economy brick = 5-1/2 sf per 80lb bag
- 8”x8”x16” CMU block = 12sqft = 80lb bag
How much does concrete weigh?
The density of concrete varies by the mix design but typically it is between 145 pounds per cubic foot and 150 pounds per cubic foot.
How many yards or bags of concrete do I need?
- 6” block- 112 block per yard.
- 8” block- 102 block per yard
- 10” block- 80 block per yard
- 12” block- 60 block per yard
What is the difference between normal weight block and medium weight block?
- Normal Weight and Medium Weight refer to the density of the aggregates used to manufacture a block. ASTM C90 has 3 density categories of CMU as follows:
- Lightweight – units having an average density less than 105 lb/ft3
- Medium Weight – units having an average density of 105 lb/ft3, but less than 125 lb/ft3
- Normal Weight – units having an average density of 125 lb/ft3 or more.
- Added density does not equal added strength, and all the density categories comply with strength requirements in ASTM C90.
- Before specifying a Density a designer should first check with local manufacturers to see what the aggregate density is available and in stock. In the Pacific Northwest the standard Density for CMU is Medium Weight, specifying a Normal weight block will result in added costs and no added benefit. In fact higher density blocks have less R value, and less fire resistance
Does High Lift Grouting require an engineer’s approval?
High lift grouting is an allowed means and method of construction per the masonry code (ACI 503/ASCE 5/TMS 402). High lift grouting refers to installing grout in a lift greater than 5’-4”. When this happens cleanouts are required at the base of the lift in order to remove mortar debris from the cavity, and to verify consolidation. More information can be found on the NCMA TEK notes. http://www.ncma-br.org/pdfs/5/TEK%2003-02A.pdf