Masonry Walls Vs Concrete Walls

Concrete masonry units cmu or precast concrete block wall are typically 8 x 8 x 16 blocks that can be stacked to form walls.

Masonry walls vs concrete walls.

The dense concrete mix used in tilt up construction. Even though site cast concrete walls are traditionally for the basement the same techniques that professionals in masonry use for below grade walls can apply to applications that are above grade. There are many variables which control overall strength of masonry or poured concrete basement foundation walls. Constructors add steel aluminum or wood paneling to improve the natural insulation of the material.

Most precast concrete is manufactured in plants and delivered on large trucks but there are techniques to allow concrete walls to be formed and poured at a job site and then raised into place as a complete wall. Precast concrete walls are solid concrete that is poured into forms to a specific size. It s aesthetically pleasing sturdy and easy to work with. Design strength of the concrete concrete blocks and mortar are very important.

Enclosures and breakaway walls january 2009 page 4 of 4 if enclosures are constructed in coastal a zones see the hurricane ike recovery advisory design and construction in coastal a zones open foundations with breakaway enclosures are recommended in lieu of foundation walls or crawlspaces. Brick is a common choice for outdoor walls. The truth of the matter is that both building materials concrete block and poured concrete can yield superior foundation walls so long as they are installed correctly. The thickness of the wall with regard to its height is also extremely important.

One of the common examples of masonry involves exterior walls that are created using concrete blocks or clay bricks. Precast concrete walls are by far the better solution. Along with these materials steel rods are works into the structure often using some type of vertical framework that allows bearing the weight of connecting walls and floors within the building. All too often builders and sub contractors fail to realize the limitations of certain masonry materials.

Both are made from concrete but depending on your project schedule and budget precast walls may be the best option. Concrete masonry is used to construct various foundation wall types including full basement walls crawlspace walls stem walls and piers. Concrete masonry is well suited for below grade applications because of its strength durability economy and resistance to fire insects and noise. These joints are susceptible to moisture infiltration requiring the use of vapor barriers and weeps in masonry walls to protect the interior of the building against moisture damage.