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: 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: For pre-insulated single wythe concrete masonry wall systems, where would the vapor barrier go?
-Vapors Impacting Concrete
A: Dear VIC: For special circumstances, such as an indoor pool or museum quality storage, a vapor barrier could be needed and the variables for each scenario would need to be considered. For general use, pre-insulated CMU mass walls don’t require a vapor barrier. Mass walls behave differently from other structural...Read More
Q: After having Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) done for each one of your Concrete Masonry Unit mix designs, is there anything in particular that you learned?
-Environmentally Lowering Impacts
A: Dear ELI: Having EPDs for each of our mix designs has really helped us see what factors affect the environmental impacts of our products. One interesting thing we uncovered was that previously valued sustainable attributes, such as recycled content and regional materials, didn’t matter as much as we thought for environmental...Read More
Q: For our school project, the structure must be cost effective, resilient, durable, have interior walls with great STC ratings, and must contribute to LEED v4. Is Concrete Masonry Construction a good option?
-Construction for Economy, Durability And Resiliency
A: Dear CEDAR, We manufacture A LOT of Concrete Masonry Units for school construction, for all of the reasons you asked about, Cedar. Concrete Masonry units come in countless color options, featuring beautiful exposed natural aggregates. They are available with several architectural finishes such as polished, textured polished, ground face and split...Read More
