Dry Stack - CMU Piers 1

[struc_confused]

Hey,

I have a client who has always used Dry-Stacked (no-mortar whatsoever) CMU piers tied to concrete foundations. Does anyone know of any code provision or design procedures that allow for this type of construction?

From everything that I have researched, ungrouted foundation piers are permitted for low-wind, low-seismic areas per appendix A of TMS 602/ACI530.1/ASCE 6, however, believe that mortar is required for stability and to tie the blocks together, even for compression only elements. IBC consistently groups 'dry-stack' with the phrase 'surface bonded', which, suggests to me that if dry-stacked construction is to be used, surface bonding is required as well. Are there any other locations in any code that would allow a pier/stub column to be designed and constructed without mortar?

Thanks in advance.

 

[BAretired]

I have never used it, but it appears that NCMA considers it a recognized system of constructing masonry walls.

https://ncma.org/resource/design-and-construction-of-dry-stack-masonry-walls/

BA

 

[masonrygeek]

The Masonry Society (TMS) is currently developing a Dry Stack Design and Construction Guide and should be published soon (

http://www.masonrysociety.org).

 

[Ganesh Persaud]

I have seen it in use, but for short foundation walls and they are usually reinforced with vertical bars from the footing every core, sometimes every other core. Short wall being from about 3 to 6 unit height. It economical in this instance. Seeing that they are constructing a guide. I think that would be very helpful.