concrete block wall construction 2

[NADOR123]

Hi everyone,

Is there any limit by code specifing the maximum number of courses per day for a concrete block wall supporting a roof slab for one story building (10 feet high)? Is block settling should be an issue to compress the mortar between the courses if the whole height built on one day?

Any references to support the limits if any?
Thanks

 

[ToadJones]

Most masons would lay that in two stages...half one day, half the next. 10' is not very tall.

 

[concretemasonry]

I would not worry about a 10' wall since the lower block with the highest loads are already on mortar that has been compressed and the excess water absorbed by the CMUs. Mortar has a very minor effect on the masonry strength (f'm).

For basements, 8' walls are commonly built in one day with no problems. 8' to 10' walls are in one day commonly used on multi-story loadbearing building up to 20+ stories in countries that are more advanced in masonry use. A good contractor cannot afford to use a wet mortar and that is why the mixer man is important to the contractor from a cost and constructability standpoint.

I would worry more about bracing the wall until the roof system and or grout rebar are in place. Wind is the big contractor problem for scheduling, progress, insurance and OSHA.

Dick

Engineer and international traveler interested in construction techniques, problems and proper design.