Concrete Masonry Unit (CMU) Block Sizes

Also referred to as Ground Face CMU, concrete blocks can be burnished or polished to expose the natural aggregates in the concrete mix. It is important to work with the manufacturer to select appealing aggregate and to test the polishing process to ensure you get the aesthetic you are looking for.

There are two ways a concrete masonry unit can have color. The first is by adding color pigments can be to either the concrete block or the mortar, or both. This method will have some slight variations in the color you choose due to the nature of concrete mixture. The second way to add color is by painting the block and/or the mortar.

Glazed concrete masonry units have a tile-like glazed finish made from a resin-based coating. This type of coating offers a wide variety of color as well as some faux material patterns. These surfaces may offer improved resistance to graffiti and chemicals. Glazed CMU is covered via ASTM C744, but the blocks still need to adhere to the ASTM C90 standard for load bearing CMU.

Raked (also called Striated) units have vertical rake marks introduced during the molding process. The rake marks are not as deep as the scored or ribbed blocks. You can also apply rake marks to scored or ribbed blocks.

Sandblasting concrete masonry units also exposes the aggregate, but also blasts away some of the sand and cement to create a rougher appearance. Some people believe this creates a natural weathered look instead of the smoother look of burnished or polished CMU.

Soft-Split CMU is made with special molds that create a split-faced appearance instead of mechanically splitting the blocks. The effect is a bit less rough than split faced. In addition, the mold means that aggregates are not exposed.

Split faced CMU is manufactured by molding two units side-by-side and then mechanically splitting them apart after firing. This creates a very rough texture that some people think looks like stone, especially since the aggregates in the block are also split or exposed.

In many homes, 8" x 8" x 16" CMU blocks are commonly used for foundational walls due to their structural integrity and strength. These blocks can support significant weight, which makes them suitable for building a sturdy and resilient home structure. Additionally, they're used for external walls, given their resistance to elements like wind, fire, and moisture.

For commercial buildings, which often require more load-bearing capacity, the larger 12" x 8" x 16" CMU blocks are frequently used. The added width provides extra strength, making them ideal for high-rise buildings or structures that support heavy machinery. These are commonly found in factories, warehouses, and other industrial settings.

CMU blocks also find extensive use in landscaping and exterior construction projects. For example, 8" x 8" x 16" blocks are often used for constructing garden walls, retaining walls, or outdoor fireplaces. Their durability and resistance to weather conditions make them suitable for these outdoor applications.

For interior non-structural walls, 4" x 8" x 16" blocks are often the preferred choice. These blocks are lighter and easier to handle, making them perfect for creating partitions in offices or residential homes. Furthermore, due to their smooth surfaces, they can also be used for veneer walls where aesthetics are a priority.