Q: I’ve heard that concrete masonry structures have low embodied carbon, is this true? Just checking…
-Green Washing Always Rejectable
A: Dear GWAR: Yes, this IS true, but not all concrete has the same embodied carbon. Concrete Masonry Units (CMU) are made with dry-cast concrete (zero-slump) which use less water and cement than poured-in-place concrete (typically referred to as wet-cast concrete). The unique structure of dry-cast concrete enables increased rates of...Read More
Q: Single wythe insulated concrete masonry passes energy code, but how can we keep the walls leek free? And do we need a vapor barrier?
-Leaks Are Really Sad
A: Dear LARS: Single wythe CMU walls have been around for a long time, and with proper detailing, they can be completely leak free. To accomplish this, we recommend a “belt and suspenders” approach. Flashing, weeps, integral water repellent and crack control are key. For extra protection a field applied, breathable,...Read More
Q: I’m considering options for the interior on our new project. What Concrete Masonry aesthetic options are available?
-Concrete Aesthetics Masonry Interiors
A: Dear CAMI: Concrete Masonry Units have come a long way since the term “cinder block” was coined and there’s a variety of aggregate colors available to us here in the Northeast. Deep blacks, grey speckled granites, stones that range from peachy to brown and others that range from pink to...Read More
Q: How are concrete masonry units made?
-Curious About Manufacturing
A: Dear CAM: At our facility we manufacture both structural grey and architectural units. Most architectural finishes expose the beauty of local aggregates and we have a variety of aggregate colors available to us. Deep blacks, grey speckled granites, stones that range from peachy to brown, and others that range from...Read More
Q: Is using a RILEM tube test the best way to determine the water repellency of a concrete masonry structure?
-Water And Leakage Test
A: Dear WALT: No. The short explanation is that a RILEM tube test measures the water repellency of a surface, making it suitable to evaluate the efficacy of non-water permeable coatings. While today it is generally used by the coatings industry, it originated as a way to provide the initial absorptive...Read More
