Unit Masonry Construction Specifications
Unit Masonry Construction Specifications
UNIT MASONRY
PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 DESCRIPTION
This section specifies requirements for construction of masonry unit walls.
1.2 RELATED WORK
A. Mortars and grouts: Section 04 05 13, MASONRY MORTARING
1.3 SUBMITTALS
A. Submit in accordance with Section 01 33 23, SHOP DRAWINGS, PRODUCT DATA AND
SAMPLES.
B. Samples:
1. Concrete masonry units, when exposed in finish work.
2. Anchors, and ties, one each and joint reinforcing 1200 mm (48 inches) long.
C. Shop Drawings:
1. Special masonry shapes.
2. Drawings, showing reinforcement, applicable dimensions and methods of hanging soffit or
lintel masonry and reinforcing masonry for embedment of anchors for hung fixtures.
3. Shop Drawings: Submit shop drawings for fabrication, bending, and placement of reinforcing
bars. Comply with ACI 315. Show bar schedules, diagrams of bent bars, stirrup spacing,
lateral ties and other arrangements and assemblies as required for fabrication and placement
of reinforcement for unit masonry work.
D. Certificates:
1. Certificates signed by manufacturer, including name and address of contractor, project
location, and the quantity, and date or dates of shipment of delivery to which certificate
applies.
2. Indicating that the following items meet specification requirements:
a. Solid and load-bearing concrete masonry units, including fire-resistant rated units.
b. Structural clay tile units.
3. Testing laboratories facilities and qualifications of its principals and key personnel to perform
tests specified.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 1
E. Manufacturer's Literature and Data:
1. Anchors, ties, and reinforcement.
2. Shear keys.
3. Reinforcing bars.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 3
D. Use keyed surface structural clay tile units required to receive plaster or mortar.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 4
b. Longitudinal wires 4 mm (0.16 inch) with U shape 4 mm (0.16 inch) rectangular ties
extending into other wythe not less than 75 mm (3 inches) spaced 400 mm o.c. (16
inches). Adjustable type with U shape tie designed to receive 4 mm (0.16 inch) pintle
projecting into other wythe 75 mm (3 inches min.).
C. Adjustable Veneer Anchor for Frame Walls:
1. Two piece, adjustable anchor and tie.
2. Anchor and tie may be either type; use only one type throughout.
3. Loop Type:
a. Anchor: Screw-on galvanized steel anchor strap 2.75 mm (0.11 inch) by 19 mm (3/4 inch)
wide by 225 mm (9 inches) long, with 9 mm (0.35 inch) offset and 100 mm (4 inch)
adjustment. Provide 5 mm (0.20 inch) hole at each end for fasteners.
b. Ties: Triangular tie, fabricated of 5 mm (0.20 inch) diameter galvanized cold drawn steel
wire. Ties long enough to engage the anchor and be embedded not less than 50 mm (2
inches) into the bed joint of the masonry veneer.
4. Angle Type:
a. Anchor: Minimum 2 mm (16 gage) thick galvanized steel angle shaped anchor strap.
Provide hole in vertical leg for fastener. Provide hole near end of outstanding leg to suit
upstanding portion of tie.
b. Tie: Fabricate from 5 mm (0.20 inch) diameter galvanized cold drawn steel wire. Form "L"
shape to be embedded not less than 50 mm (2 inches) into the bed joint of the masonry
veneer and provide upstanding leg to fit through hole in anchor and be long enough to
allow 50 mm (2 inches) of vertical adjustment.
D. Dovetail Anchors:
1. Corrugated steel dovetail anchors formed of 1.5 mm (0.0598 inch) thick by 25 mm (1 inch)
wide galvanized steel, 90 mm (3-1/2 inches) long where used to anchor 100 mm (4 inch)
nominal thick masonry units, 140 mm (5-1/2 inches) long for masonry units more than 100 mm
(4 inches) thick.
2. Triangular wire dovetail anchor 100 mm (4 inch) wide formed of 4 mm (9 gage) steel wire with
galvanized steel dovetail insert. Anchor length to extend at least 75 mm (3 inches) into
masonry, 25 mm (1 inch) into 40 mm (1-1/2 inch) thick units.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 5
3. Form dovetail anchor slots from 0.6 mm (0.0239 inch) thick galvanized steel (with felt or fiber
filler).
E. Individual ties:
1. Rectangular ties: Form from 5 mm (3/16 inch) diameter galvanized steel rod to a rectangular
shape not less than 50 mm (2 inches) wide by sufficient length for ends of ties to extend within
25 mm (1 inch) of each face of wall. Ties that are crimped to form drip are not permitted.
2. Adjustable Cavity Wall Ties:
a. Adjustable wall ties may be used at Contractor's option.
b. Two piece type permitting up to 40 mm (1-1/2 inch) adjustment.
c. Form ties from 5 mm (3/16 inch) diameter galvanized steel wire.
d. Form one piece to a rectangular shape 105 mm (4-1/8 inches) wide by length required to
extend into the bed joint 50 mm (2 inches).
e. Form the other piece to a 75 mm (3 inch) long by 75 mm (3 inch) wide shape, having a 75
mm (3 inch) long bent section for engaging the 105 mm (4-1/8 inch) wide piece to form
adjustable connection.
F. Wall Ties, (Mesh or Wire):
1. Mesh wall ties formed of ASTM A82, W0.5, 2 mm, (16 gage) galvanized steel wire 13 mm by
13 mm (1/2 inch by 1/2 inch) mesh, 75 mm (3 inches) wide by 200 mm (8 inches) long.
2. Rectangular wire wall ties formed of W1.4, 3 mm, (9 gage) galvanized steel wire 50 mm (2
inches) wide by 200 mm (8 inches) long.
G. Corrugated Wall Tie:
1. Form from 1.5 mm (0.0598 inch) thick corrugated, galvanized steel 30 mm (1-1/4 inches) wide
by lengths so as to extend at least 100 mm (4 inches) into joints of new masonry plus 38 mm
(1-1/2 inch) turn-up.
2. Provide 5 mm (3/16 inch) hole in turn-up for fastener attachment.
H. Adjustable Steel Column Anchor:
1. Two piece anchor consisting of a 6 mm (1/4 inch) diameter steel rod to be welded to steel with
offset ends, rod to permit 100 mm (4 inch) vertical adjustment of wire anchor.
2. Triangular shaped wire anchor 100 mm (4 inches) wide formed from 5 (3/16 inch) diameter
galvanized wire, to extend at least 75 mm (3 inches) into joints of masonry.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 6
I. Adjustable Steel Beam Anchor:
1. Z or C type steel strap, 30 mm (1 1/4 inches) wide, 3 mm (1/8 inch) thick.
2. Flange hook not less than 38 mm (1 1/2 inches) long.
3. Length to embed in masonry not less than 50 mm (2 inches) in 100 mm (4 inch) nominal thick
masonry and 100 mm (4 inches) in thicker masonry.
4. Bend masonry end not less than 40 mm (1 1/2 inches).
J. Ridge Wall Anchors:
1. Form from galvanized steel not less than 25 mm (1 inch) wide by 5 mm (3/16 inch) thick by
600 mm (24 inches) long, plus 50 mm (2 inch) bends.
2. Other lengths as shown.
2.6 PREFORMED COMPRESSIBLE JOINT FILLER
A. Thickness and depth to fill the joint as specified.
B. Closed Cell Neoprene: ASTM D1056, Type 2, Class A, Grade 1, B2F1.
C. Non-Combustible Type: ASTM C612, Class 5, 1800 degrees F.
2.7 ACCESSORIES
A. Weep Hole Wicks: Glass fiber ropes, 10 mm (3/8 inch) minimum diameter, 300 mm (12 inches)
long.
B. Box Board:
1. Mineral Fiber Board: ASTM C612, Class 1.
2. 25 mm (1 inch) thickness.
3. Other spacing material having similar characteristics may be used subject to the HDC Clerk of
Work's approval.
C. Masonry Cleaner:
1. Detergent type cleaner selected for each type masonry used.
2. Acid cleaners are not acceptable.
3. Use soapless type specially prepared for cleaning brick or concrete masonry as appropriate.
D. Fasteners:
1. Concrete Nails: ASTM F1667, Type I, Style 11, 19 mm (3/4 inch) minimum length.
2. Masonry Nails: ASTM F1667, Type I, Style 17, 19 mm (3/4 inch) minimum length.
3. Screws: FS-FF-S-107, Type A, AB, SF thread forming or cutting.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 7
2.8 PRE-BUILT MASONRY PANELS
A. Shop fabricated under a controlled environment, in a plant capable of manufacturing, transporting,
and storing the finished panels.
B. Fabricate panels to size and configuration shown, conforming to approved shop drawing.
C. Fabricate panels in jigs.
D. Reject panels failing to meet these requirements.
1. Plumb head joints.
2. Panel dimensions tolerances: Accurate to plus 0 mm (0 inch) and minus 6 mm (1/4 inch) in
3600 mm (12 feet).
3. Panels true, free of warp or rack, and plumb on base.
PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 JOB CONDITIONS
A. Protection:
1. Cover tops of walls with nonstaining waterproof covering, when work is not in progress.
Secure to prevent wind blow off.
2. On new work protect base of wall from mud, dirt, mortar droppings, and other materials that
will stain face, until final landscaping or other site work is completed.
3.2 CONSTRUCTION TOLERANCES
A. Lay masonry units plumb, level and true to line within the tolerances as per MSJC requirements
and as follows:
B. Maximum variation from plumb:
1. In 3000 mm (10 feet) - 6 mm (1/4 inch).
2. In 6000 mm (20 feet) - 10 mm (3/8 inch).
3. In 12 000 mm (40 feet) or more - 13 mm (1/2 inch).
C. Maximum variation from level:
1. In any bay or up to 6000 mm (20 feet) - 6 mm (1/4 inch).
2. In 12 000 mm (40 feet) or more - 13 mm (1/2 inch).
D. Maximum variation from linear building lines:
1. In any bay or up to 6000 mm (20 feet) - 13 mm (1/2 inch).
2. In 12 000 mm (40 feet) or more - 19 mm (3/4 inch).
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 8
E. Maximum variation in cross-sectional dimensions of columns and thickness of walls from
dimensions shown:
1. Minus 6 mm (1/4 inch).
2. Plus 13 mm (1/2 inch).
F. Maximum variation in prepared opening dimensions:
1. Accurate to minus 0 mm (0 inch).
2. Plus 6 mm (1/4 inch).
3.3 INSTALLATION GENERAL
A. Keep finish work free from mortar smears or spatters, and leave neat and clean.
B. Anchor masonry as specified in Paragraph, ANCHORAGE.
C. Wall Openings:
1. Fill hollow metal frames built into masonry walls and partitions solid with mortar as laying of
masonry progresses.
2. If items are not available when walls are built, prepare openings for subsequent installation.
D. Tooling Joints:
1. Do not tool until mortar has stiffened enough to retain thumb print when thumb is pressed
against mortar.
2. Tool while mortar is soft enough to be compressed into joints and not raked out.
3. Finish joints in exterior face masonry work with a jointing tool, and provide smooth, water-tight
concave joint unless specified otherwise.
4. Tool Exposed interior joints in finish work concave unless specified otherwise.
E. Partition Height:
1. Extend partitions at least 100 mm (four inches) above suspended ceiling or to overhead
construction where no ceiling occurs.
2. Extend following partitions to overhead construction.
a. Where noted smoke partitions, FHP (full height partition), and FP (fire partition) and smoke
partitions (SP) on drawings.
b. Both walls at expansion joints.
c. Corridor walls.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 9
d. Walls at stairway and stair halls, elevators, dumbwaiters, trash and laundry chute shafts,
and other vertical shafts.
e. Walls at refrigerator space.
g. Reinforced masonry partitions
3. Extend finish masonry partitions at least four-inches above suspended ceiling and continue
with concrete masonry units or structural clay tile to overhead construction:
F. Lintels:
1. Lintels are not required for openings less than 1000 mm (3 feet 4 inches) wide that have
hollow metal frames.
2. Openings 1025 mm (3 feet 5 inches) wide to 1600 m (5 feet 4 inches) wide with no structural
steel lintel or frames, require a lintel formed of concrete masonry lintel or bond beam units or
structural facing tile lintel units filled with grout per ASTM C476 and reinforced with 1- #15m (1-
#5) rod top and bottom for each 100 mm (4 inches) of nominal thickness unless shown
otherwise.
3. Precast lintels of 25 Mpa (3000 psi) concrete, of same thickness as partition, and with one
Number 5 deformed bar top and bottom for each 100 mm (4 inches) of nominal thickness, may
be used in lieu of reinforced CMU masonry lintels.
4. Use steel lintels, for openings over 1600 m (5 feet 4 inches) wide, brick masonry, and elevator
openings unless shown otherwise.
5. Doors having overhead concealed door closers require a steel lintel, and a pocket for closer
box.
6. Length for minimum bearing of 100 mm (4 inches) at ends.
7. Build masonry openings or arches over wood or metal centering and supports when steel
lintels are not used.
G. Wall, Furring, and Partition Units:
1. Lay out field units to provide for running bond of walls and partitions, with vertical joints in
second course centering on first course units unless specified otherwise.
2. Align head joints of alternate vertical courses.
3. At sides of openings, balance head joints in each course on vertical center lines of openings.
4. Use no piece shorter than 100 mm (4 inches) long.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 10
5. On interior partitions provide a 6 mm (1/4 inch) open joint for caulking between existing
construction, exterior walls, concrete work, and abutting masonry partitions.
6. Use not less than 100 mm (4 inches) nominal thick masonry for free standing furring unless
shown otherwise.
7. Do not abut existing plastered surfaces except suspended ceilings with new masonry
partitions.
H. Use not less than 100 mm (4 inches) nominal thick masonry for fireproofing steel columns unless
shown otherwise.
I. Before connecting new masonry with previously laid, remove loosened masonry or mortar, and
clean and wet work in place as specified under wetting.
J. When new masonry partitions start on existing floors, machine cut existing floor finish material
down to concrete surface.
Q. Allow not less than the following minimum time to elapse after completion of members before
removing shores or forms, provided suitable curing conditions have been obtained during the
curing period.
1. 10 days for girders and beams.
2. 7 days for slabs.
3. 7 days for reinforced masonry soffits.
3.4 ANCHORAGE
A. Veneer to Frame Walls:
1. Use adjustable veneer anchors.
2. Fasten anchor to stud through sheathing with self drilling and tapping screw, one at each end
of loop type anchor.
3. Space anchors not more than 400 mm (16 inches) on center vertically at each stud.
B. Veneer to Concrete Walls:
1. Install dovetail slots in concrete vertically at 600 mm (2 feet) on centers.
2. Locate dovetail anchors at 400 mm (16 inch) maximum vertical intervals.
3. Anchor new masonry facing to existing concrete with corrugated wall ties spaced at 400 mm,
(16 inch) maximum vertical intervals, and at 600 mm (2 feet) maximum horizontal intervals.
Fasten ties to concrete with power actuated fasteners or concrete nails.
C. Masonry Facing to Backup and Cavity Wall Ties:
1. Use individual ties for new work.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 12
2. Stagger ties in alternate courses, and space at 400 mm (16 inches) maximum vertically, and
600 mm (2 feet) horizontally.
3. At openings, provide additional ties spaced not more than 900 mm (3 feet) apart vertically
around perimeter of opening, and within 300 mm (12 inches) from edge of opening.
4. Anchor new masonry facing to existing masonry with corrugated wall ties spaced at 400 mm
(16 inch) maximum vertical intervals and at every second masonry unit horizontally. Fasten
ties to masonry with masonry nails.
5. Option: Use joint reinforcing for multiple wythes and cavity wall ties spaced not more than 400
mm (16 inches) vertically.
6. Tie interior and exterior wythes of reinforced masonry walls together with individual ties.
Provide ties at intervals not to exceed 600 mm (24 inches) on center horizontally, and 400 mm
(16 inches) on center vertically. Lay ties in the same line vertically in order to facilitate vibrating
of the grout pours.
D. Anchorage of Abutting Masonry:
1. Anchor interior 100 mm (4 inch) thick masonry partitions to exterior masonry walls with wall
ties. Space ties at 600 mm (2 foot) maximum vertical intervals. Extend ties 100 mm (4 inches)
minimum into masonry.
2. Anchor interior masonry bearing walls or interior masonry partitions over 100 mm (4 inches)
thick to masonry walls with rigid wall anchors spaced at 400 mm (16 inch) maximum vertical
intervals.
3. Anchor abutting masonry walls and partitions to concrete with dovetail anchors. Install dovetail
slots vertically in concrete at centerline of abutting wall or partition. Locate dovetail anchors at
400 mm (16 inch) maximum vertical intervals. Secure anchors to existing wall with two 9 mm
(3/8 inch) by 75 mm (3 inch) expansion bolts or two power-driven fasteners.
4. Anchor abutting interior masonry partitions to existing concrete and existing masonry
construction, with corrugated wall ties. Extend ties at least 100 mm (4 inches) into joints of
new masonry. Fastened to existing concrete and masonry construction, with powder actuated
drive pins, nail or other means that provides rigid anchorage. Install anchors at 400 mm (16
inch) maximum vertical intervals.
E. Masonry Furring:
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 13
1. Anchor masonry furring less than 100 mm (4 inches) nominal thick to masonry walls or to
concrete with corrugated wall ties or dovetail anchors.
2. Space not over 600 mm (2 feet) on centers in both directions.
F. Anchorage to Steel Beams or Columns:
1. Use adjustable beam anchors on each flange.
2. At columns weld the 6 mm (1/4 inch) steel rod to steel columns at 300 mm (12 inch) intervals,
and place wire ties in masonry courses at 400 mm (16 inches) maximum vertically.
3.5 REINFORCEMENT
A. Joint Reinforcement:
1. Use as joint reinforcement in CMU wythe of combination brick and CMU, cavity walls, and
single wythe concrete masonry unit walls or partitions.
2. Reinforcing may be used in lieu of individual ties for anchoring brick facing to CMU backup in
exterior masonry walls.
3. Brick veneer over frame backing walls does not require joint reinforcement.
4. Locate joint reinforcement in mortar joints at 400 mm (16 inch) maximum vertical intervals.
5. Additional joint reinforcement is required in mortar joints at both 200 mm (8 inches) and 400
(16 inches) above and below windows, doors, louvers and similar openings in masonry, except
where other type anchors are required for anchorage of masonry to concrete structure.
6. Joint reinforcement is required in every other course of stack bond CMU masonry.
7. Wherever brick masonry is backed up with stacked bond masonry, joint reinforcement is
required in every other course of CMU backup, and in corresponding joint of facing brick.
B. Steel Reinforcing Bars:
1. Install in cells of hollow masonry units where required for vertical reinforcement and in bond
beam units for lintels and bond beam horizontal reinforcement. Install in wall cavities of
reinforced masonry walls where shown.
2. Use grade 60 bars if not specified otherwise.
3. Bond Beams:
a. Form Bond beams of load-bearing concrete masonry units filled with ASTM C476 grout
and reinforced with 2-#15m (#5) reinforcing steel unless shown otherwise. Do not cut
reinforcement.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 14
b. Brake bond beams only at expansion joints and at control joints, if shown.
4. Stack Bond:
a. Locate additional joint reinforcement in vertical and horizontal joints as shown.
b. Anchor vertical reinforcement into the foundation or wall or bond beam below and hold in
place.
c. Provide temporary bracing for walls over 8 ft. tall until permanent horizontal bracing is
completed.
5. Grout openings:
a. Leave cleanout holes in double wythe walls during construction by omitting units at the
base of one side of the wall.
b. Locate 75 mm x 75 mm (3 in. x 3 in.) min. clean-out holes at location of vertical
reinforcement.
c. Keep grout space clean of mortar accumulation and sand debris. Clean the grout space
every day using a high pressure jet stream of water, or compressed air, or industrial
vacuum, or by laying wood strips on the metal ties as the wall is built. If wood strips are
used, lift strips with wires as the wall progresses and before placing each succeeding
course of wall ties.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 15
3.7 BUILDING EXPANSION AND SEISMIC JOINTS
A. Keep joint free of mortar. Remove mortar and other debris.
B. Install non-combustible, compressible type joint filler to fill space completely except where sealant
is shown on joints in exposed finish work.
3.8 ISOLATION SEAL
A. Where full height walls or partitions lie parallel or perpendicular to and under structural beams or
shelf angles, provide a separation between walls or partitions and bottom of beams or shelf angles
not less than the masonry joint thickness unless shown otherwise.
B. Insert in the separation, a continuous full width strip of non-combustible type compressible joint
filler.
C. Where exposed in finish work, cut back filler material in the joint enough to allow for the joint to be
filled with sealant material specified in Section 07 92 00, JOINT SEALANTS.
3.9 BRICKWORK
A. Lay clay brick in accordance with BIA Technical Note 11 series.
B. Laying:
1. Lay brick in running bond with course of masonry bonded at corners unless shown otherwise.
Match bond of existing building on alterations and additions.
2. Maintain bond pattern throughout.
3. Do not use brick smaller than half-brick at any angle, corner, break or jamb.
4. Where length of cut brick is greater than one half but less than a whole brick, maintain the
vertical joint location of such units.
5. Lay exposed brickwork joints symmetrical about center lines of openings.
6. Do not structural bond multi wythe brick walls unless shown.
7. Before starting work, lay facing brick on foundation wall and adjust bond to openings, angles,
and corners.
8. Lay brick for sills with wash and drip.
9. Build solid brickwork as required for anchorage of items.
C. Joints:
1. Exterior and interior joint widths: Lay for three equal joints in 200 mm (eight inches) vertically,
unless shown otherwise.
2. Rake joints for pointing with colored mortar when colored mortar is not full depth.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 16
3. Arches:
a. Flat arches (jack arches) lay with camber of 1 in 200 (1/16 inch per foot) of span.
b. Face radial arches with radial brick with center line of joints on radial lines.
c. Form Radial joints of equal width.
d. Bond arches into backing with metal ties in every other joint.
D. Weep Holes:
1. Install weep holes at 600 mm (24 inches) on center in bottom of vertical joints of exterior
masonry veneer or cavity wall facing over foundations, bond beams, and other water stops in
the wall.
2. Form weep holes using wicks made of mineral fiber insulation strips turned up 200 mm (8
inches) in cavity. Anchor top of strip to backup to securely hold in place.
3. Install sand or pea gravel in cavity approximately 75 mm (3 inches) high between weep holes.
E. Solid Exterior Walls:
1. Build with 100 mm (4 inches) of nominal thick facing brick, backed up with concrete masonry
units, cast-in-place concrete or 100 mm (4 inches) nominal thick face brick.
2. Construct solid brick jambs not less than 20 mm (.8 inches) wide at exterior wall openings and
at recesses, except where exposed concrete unit backup is shown.
3. Do not use full bonding headers.
4. Parging:
a. For solid masonry walls, lay backup to height of six brick courses, parge backup with 13
mm (1/2 inch) of mortar troweled smooth; then lay exterior wythe to height of backup.
b. Make parging continuous over backup, and extend 150 mm (six inches) onto adjacent
concrete or masonry.
c. Parge, with mortar, the ends and backs for recesses in exterior walls to a thickness of 13
mm (1/2 inch).
d. Parge with mortar to true even surface the inside surface of exterior walls to receive
insulation.
F. Cavity Type Exterior Walls:
1. Keep air space clean of mortar accumulations and debris.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 17
a. Clean cavity by use of hard rubber, wood or metal channel strips having soft material on
sides contacting wythes.
b. Lift strips with wires before placing next courses of horizontal joint reinforcement or
individual ties or adjustable cavity wall ties.
2. For each lift lay two courses of concrete masonry units, followed by six courses of brick facing.
3. Lay the interior wythe of the masonry wall full height where dampproofing is required on cavity
face. Coordinate to install dampproofing prior to laying outer wythe.
4. Insulated Cavity Type Exterior Walls:
a. Install the insulation against the cavity face of inner masonry wythe.
b. Place insulation between rows of ties or joint reinforcing or bond to masonry surface with a
bonding agent as recommended by the manufacturer of the insulation.
c. Lay the outer masonry wythe up with an air space between insulation and masonry units.
5. Veneer Framed Walls:
a. Build with 100 mm (4 inches) of face brick over sheathed stud wall with air space.
b. Keep air space clean of mortar accumulations and debris.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 18
7. Structural Clay Tile Units (Option):
a. Structural clay tile units load-bearing or non-load bearing as required, may be used in lieu
of concrete masonry units, only, but not as an exposed surface, foundation walls or where
otherwise noted.
b. Set units according to applicable requirements specified for concrete masonry units.
c. Use brick or load-bearing structural clay tile units, with cores set vertically, and filled with
grout where structural members impose concentrated load directly on structural clay tile
masonry.
8. Where lead lined concrete masonry unit partitions terminate below the underside of overhead
floor or roof deck, fill the remaining open space between the top of the partition and the
underside of the overhead floor or roof deck, with standard concrete masonry units of same
thickness as the lead lined units.
B. Laying:
1. Lay concrete masonry units with 10 mm (3/8 inch) joints, with a bond overlap of not less than
1/4 of the unit length, except where stack bond is required.
2. Do not wet concrete masonry units before laying.
3. Bond external corners of partitions by overlapping alternate courses.
4. Lay first course in a full mortar bed.
5. Set anchorage items as work progress.
6. Where ends of anchors, bolts, and other embedded items, project into voids of units,
completely fill such voids with mortar or grout.
7. Provide a 6 mm (1/4 inch) open joint for caulking between existing construction, exterior walls,
concrete work and abutting masonry partitions.
8. Lay concrete masonry units with full face shell mortar beds and fill head joint beds for depth
equivalent to face shell thickness.
9. Lay concrete masonry units so that cores of units, that are to be filled with grout, are vertically
continuous with joints of cross webs of such cores completely filled with mortar. Unobstructed
core openings not less than 50 mm (2 inches) by 75 mm (3 inches).
10. Do not wedge the masonry against the steel reinforcing. Minimum 13 mm (1/2 inch) clear
distance between reinforcing and masonry units.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 19
11. Install deformed reinforcing bars of sizes shown.
12. Steel reinforcement, at time of placement, free of loose flaky rust, mud, oil, or other coatings
that will destroy or reduce bond.
13. Steel reinforcement in place before grouting.
14. Minimum clear distance between parallel bars: One bar diameter.
15. Hold vertical steel reinforcement in place by centering clips, caging devices, tie wire, or other
approved methods, vertically at spacings noted.
16. Support vertical bars near each end and at intermediate intervals not exceeding 192 bar
diameters.
17. Reinforcement shall be fully encased by grout or concrete.
18. Splice reinforcement or attach reinforcement to dowels by placing in contact and secured or by
placing the reinforcement within 1/5 of the required bar splice length.
19. Stagger splices in adjacent horizontal reinforcing bars. Lap reinforcing bars at splices a
minimum of 40 bar diameters.
20. Grout cells of concrete masonry units, containing the reinforcing bars, solid as specified under
grouting.
21. Cavity and joint horizontal reinforcement may be placed as the masonry work progresses.
22. Rake joints 6 to 10 mm (1/4 to 3/8 inch) deep for pointing with colored mortar when colored
mortar is not full depth.
C. Waterproofing Parging:
1. Parge earth side of concrete masonry unit basement walls with mortar applied in two coats,
each coat 6 mm (1/4 inch) thick.
2. Clean wall surfaces to receive parging of dirt, oil, or grease, and moisten before application of
first coat.
3. Roughen first coat when partially set, permit to hardened for 24 hours, and moisten before
application of second coat.
4. Keep second coat damp for at least 48 hours.
5. Thicken parging and round to form a cove at the junction of outside wall face and footing.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 20
3.11 GLAZED STRUCTURAL FACING TILE (GSFT)
A. Lay facing tile in running bond unless shown otherwise. Match existing adjacent bond and joints in
alteration work.
B. Laying:
1. Set facing tile units in full bed of mortar with ends buttered, and units shoved into place. Fill
joints with mortar, and rake out 9 mm (3/8 inch) deep for pointing.
2. Use clean units when set.
3. Perform cutting and grinding of units by power-driven cutting saws and grinders.
4. Cut or drill units to accommodate electrical outlets, plumbing fixtures, grab-bars, and
equipment.
5. Cove Base Units:
a. Set base flush with finish floor.
b. Form base course of two-face partitions of two units to required thickness.
6. Lay out partitions enclosing pipes or conduits with thickness to provide 50 mm (two inch)
minimum coverage of pipes or conduits.
7. Joints:
a. Nominally 6 mm (1/4 inch) width except match existing in alteration work.
b. Maximum variations in joint width 2 mm (1/16 inch).
c. Reinforce Two-Face partitions of 100 mm (4 inch nominal) thickness with continuous joint
reinforcement, or wire mesh ties in joints at top of base, at top of GSFT, and at three-
course intervals between.
3.12 POINTING
A. Fill joints with pointing mortar using rubber float trowel to rub mortar solidly into raked joints.
B. Wipe off excess mortar from joints of glazed masonry units with dry cloth.
C. Finish exposed joints in finish work with a jointing tool to provide a smooth concave joint unless
specified otherwise.
D. At joints with existing work match existing joint.
3.13 GROUTING
A. Preparation:
1. Clean grout space of mortar droppings before placing grout.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 21
2. Close cleanouts.
3. Install vertical solid masonry dams across grout space for full height of wall at intervals of not
more than 9000 mm (30 feet). Do not bond dam units into wythes as masonry headers.
4. Verify reinforcing bars are in cells of units or between wythes as shown.
B. Placing:
1. Place grout by hand bucket, concrete hopper, or grout pump.
2. Consolidate each lift of grout after free water has disappeared but before plasticity is lost.
3. Do not slush with mortar or use mortar with grout.
4. Interruptions:
a. When grouting must be stopped for more than an hour, top off grout 40 mm (1-1/2 inch)
below top of last masonry course.
b. Grout from dam to dam on high lift method.
c. A longitudinal run of masonry may be stopped off only by raking back one-half a masonry
unit length in each course and stopping grout 100 mm (4 inches) back of rake on low lift
method.
C. Puddling Method:
1. Double wythe masonry constructed grouted in lifts not to exceed 300 mm (12 inches) or less
than 50 mm (2 inches) wide.
2. Consolidate by puddling with a grout stick during and immediately after placing.
3. Grout the cores of concrete masonry units containing the reinforcing bars solid as the masonry
work progresses.
D. Low Lift Method:
1. Construct masonry to a height of 1.5 m (5 ft) maximum before grouting.
2. Grout in one continuous operation and consolidate grout by mechanical vibration and
reconsolidate after initial water loss and settlement has occurred.
E. High Lift Method:
1. Do not pour grout until masonry wall has properly cured a minimum of 4 hours.
2. Place grout in lifts not exceeding 1.5 m (5 ft).
3. Exception:
Where the following conditions are met, place grout in lifts not exceeding 3.86 m (12.67 ft).
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 22
a. The masonry has cured for at least 4 hours.
b. The grout slump is maintained between 254 and 279 mm (10 and 11 in).
c. No intermediate reinforced bond beams are placed between the top and the bottom of the
pour height.
4. When vibrating succeeding lifts, extend vibrator 300 to 450 mm (12 to 18 inches) into the
preceding lift to close any shrinkage cracks or separation from the masonry units.
3.14 PLACING REINFORCEMENT
A. General: Clean reinforcement of loose rust, mill scale, earth, ice or other materials which will
reduce bond to mortar or grout. Do not use reinforcement bars with kinks or bends not shown on
the Contract Drawings or final shop drawings, or bars with reduced cross-section due to excessive
rusting or other causes.
B. Position reinforcement accurately at the spacing indicated. Support and secure vertical bars
against displacement. Horizontal reinforcement may be placed as the masonry work progresses.
Where vertical bars are shown in close proximity, provide a clear distance between bars of not less
than the nominal bar diameter or 25 mm (1 inch), whichever is greater.
C. For columns, piers and pilasters, provide a clear distance between vertical bars as indicated, but
not less than 1 1/2 times the nominal bar diameter or 38 mm (1-1/2 inches), whichever is greater.
Provide lateral ties as indicated.
D. Splice reinforcement bars where shown; do not splice at other places unless accepted by the HDC
Clerk of Work. Provide lapped splices, unless otherwise indicated. In splicing vertical bars or
attaching to dowels, lap ends, place in contact and wire tie.
E. Provide not less than minimum lap as indicated on shop drawings, or if not indicated, as required
by governing code.
F. Weld splices where indicated. Comply with the requirements of AWS D1.4 for welding materials
and procedures.
G. Embed metal ties in mortar joints as work progresses, with a minimum mortar cover of 15 mm (5/8
inch) on exterior face of walls and 13 mm (1/2 inch) at other locations.
H. Embed prefabricated horizontal joint reinforcement as the work progresses, with a minimum cover
of 15 mm (5/8 inch) on exterior face of walls and 13 mm (1/2 inch) at other locations. Lap joint
reinforcement not less than 150 mm (6 inches) at ends. Use prefabricated “L” and “T” sections to
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 23
provide continuity at corners and intersections. Cut and bend joint reinforcement as recommended
by manufacturer for continuity at returns, offsets, column fireproofing, pipe enclosures and other
special conditions.
I. Anchoring: Anchor reinforced masonry work to supporting structure as indicated.
J. Anchor reinforced masonry walls to non-reinforced masonry where they intersect.
3.15 INSTALLATION OF REINFORCED BRICK MASONRY
A. Mortar Jointing and Bedding:
1. Pattern Bond: Lay exterior wythes in the pattern bond shown, or if not shown, lay in 1/2
running bond with vertical joints in each course centered on units in courses above and below.
Lay inner wythes (if any) with all units in a wythe bonded by lapping not less than 50 mm (2
inches). Bond and interlock each course of each wythe at corners and intersections. Do not
use units with less than 100 mm (4 inch) nominal horizontal face dimension at corners or
jambs.
2. Lay exterior Wythes with bed (horizontal) and head (vertical) joints between units completely
filled with mortar. Top of bed joint mortar may be sloped toward center of walls. Butter ends of
units with sufficient mortar to completely fill head joints and shove into place. Do not furrow
bed joints or slush head joints. Remove any mortar fins which protrude into grout space.
3. Maintain joint widths shown for head and bed joints, except for minor variations required to
maintain pattern bond. If not shown, lay with 10 mm (3/8 inch) head and bed joints.
4. Maintain joint widths shown for head and bed joints, but adjust thickness of bed joints, if
required, to allow for not less than 6 mm (1/4 inch) thickness of mortar between reinforcement
and masonry units, except 6 mm (1/4 inch) bars (if any) may be laid in 13 mm (1/2 inch) thick
bed joints and 4.9 mm diameter (6 gage) or smaller wire reinforcing (if any) may be laid in 10
mm (3/8 inch) thick bed joints.
B. Two-Wythe Wall Construction: Lay both wythes as previously specified for exterior wythes.
Maintain grout space (collar or continuous vertical joint between wythes) of width indicated, but
adjust, if required, to provide grout space not less than 13 mm (1/2 inch) wider than the sum of the
vertical and horizontal (if any) reinforcement bars shown to be placed in grout space. Do not parge
or fill grout space with mortar.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 24
C. Multi-Wythe Wall Construction: Where walls of 3 or more wythes are indicated, lay exterior wythes
as previously specified. Maintain space between wythes as required to allow for laying of the
number of wythes of the unit width shown with minimum grout space between wythes. Allow for
not less than 19 mm (3/4 inch) of grout between wythes if non-reinforced; if reinforced, allow for a
grout space not less than 13 mm (1/2 inch) wider than the sum of the vertical and horizontal (if
any) reinforcement bars indicated to be placed in grout space. Place or float interior wythe units in
grout poured between exterior wythes as the work progresses. Position units to allow not less than
19 mm (3/4 inch) grout between ends and sides of adjacent units.
D. Limit extent of masonry construction to sections which do not exceed the maximum pour
requirements specified hereafter. Provide temporary dams or barriers to control horizontal flow of
grout at ends of wall sections. Build dams full height of grout pour. If masonry units are used, do
not bond into permanent masonry wythes. Remove temporary dams after completion of grout
pour.
E. Low-Lift Grouting:
1. Use Low-Lift grouting technique with “Fine Grout” per ASTM C476 for the following:
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 25
6. Lay masonry units prior to each grout pour, but do not construct more than 300 mm (12
inches) above maximum grout pour height in one exterior wythe and 100 mm (4 inches) above
in other exterior wythe. Provide metal wall ties if required to prevent blowouts.
7. Pour grout using container with spout and consolidate immediately by rodding or puddling; do
not use trowels. Place grout continuously; do not interrupt pouring of grout for more than one
hour. If poured in lifts, place from center-to-center of masonry courses. Terminate pour 38 mm
(1 1/2 inches) below top of highest course in pour.
F. High-Lift Grouting:
1. High-Lift grouting technique may be used for the following masonry construction:
a. Two-wythe walls with grout spaces of 60 mm (2 1/2 inches) or greater width.
b. Columns, piers, or pilasters when no unit masonry fill is shown to be placed in reinforced
grout space.
2. Place reinforcement and support in proper position, prior to laying of masonry units, except if
shown to be placed in mortar joints, place as masonry units are laid. Place horizontal bars in
grout spaces on same side of vertical bars.
3. Construct high-lift masonry by laying masonry to full height and width prior to placing grout.
Provide cleanout holes in first course of masonry, and use high-pressure water jet stream to
remove excess mortar from grout spaces, reinforcement bars and top surface of structural
members which support wall. Clean grout spaces daily during construction of masonry.
4. Walls: Omit every other masonry unit in first course of one wythe to provide cleanout holes.
Tie wythes together with metal ties as shown or as required by code, but provide not less than
3.8 mm diameter (9 gage) wire ties spaced not more than 600 mm (24 inches) o.c. horizontally
and 400 mm (16 inches) o.c. vertically for running pattern bond or 300 mm (12 inches) o.c.
vertically for stack bond (if any).
5. Columns, Piers and Pilasters: Omit every other masonry unit around perimeter of member to
provide cleanout holes. Provide reinforcing bands placed in bed joints as the masonry work
progresses. Provide bands of the size and vertical spacing show, or as required by code, but
not less than 3.8 mm diameter (9 gage) wire spaced 300 mm (12 inches) o.c. vertically.
6. Preparation of Grout Spaces: Prior to grouting, inspect and clean grout spaces. Remove dirt,
dust, mortar droppings, loose pieces of masonry and other foreign materials from grout
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 26
spaces. Clean reinforcement and adjust to proper positioning. Clean top surface of structural
members supporting masonry to ensure bond. After cleaning and inspection, close cleanout
holes with matching masonry units and brace closures to resist grout pressures.
7. Do not place grout until entire height of masonry to be grouted has attained sufficient strength
to resist grout pressure, but not less than 3 days curing time. Install shores and bracing, if
required, before starting grouting operations.
8. Place grout by pumping into grout spaces, unless alternate methods are acceptable to HDC
Clerk of Work.
9. Use “Coarse Grout” per ASTM C476. Rod or vibrate each grout lift during placing and again
after excess moisture has been absorbed, but before plasticity is lost. Do not penetrate or
damage grout placed in previous lifts or pours.
10. Limit grout pours to sections which can be completed in one working day with not more than
one hour interruption of pouring operation. Limit pours so as not to exceed the capacity of
masonry to resist displacement or loss of mortar bond due to grout pressures.
11. Do not exceed 3600 mm (12 foot) pour height.
12. Do not exceed 7600 mm (25 foot) horizontal pour dimension.
13. Where pour height exceeds 1220 mm (4 feet), place grout in a series of lifts not exceeding
1220 mm (4 feet) height. Place each lift as a continuous pouring operation. Allow not less than
30 minutes, nor more that one hour between lifts of a given pour.
14. When more than one pour is required to complete a given section of masonry, extend
reinforcement beyond masonry as required for splicing. Pour grout to within 38 mm (1-1/2
inches) of top course of first pour. After grouted masonry is cured, remove temporary dams (if
any), and lay masonry units and place reinforcement for second pour section before grouting.
Repeat sequence, if more pours are required.
3.16 INSTALLATION OF REINFORCED CONCRETE UNIT MASONRY
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 27
C. Where solid CMU units are shown, lay with full mortar head and bed joints.
D. Walls:
1. Pattern Bond: Lay CMU wall units in 1/2-running bond with vertical joints in each course
centered on units in courses above and below, unless otherwise indicated. Bond and interlock
each course at corners and intersections. Use special-shaped units where shown, and as
required for corners, jambs, sash, control joints, lintels, bond beams and other special
conditions.
2. Maintain vertical continuity of core or cell cavities, which are to be reinforced and grouted, to
provide minimum clear dimension indicated and to provide minimum clearance and grout
coverage for vertical reinforcement bars. Keep cavities free of mortar. Solidly bed webs in
mortar where adjacent to reinforced cores or cells.
3. Where horizontal reinforced beams (bond beams) are shown, use special units or modify
regular units to allow for placement of continuous horizontal reinforcement bars. Place small
mesh expanded metal lath or wire screening in mortar joints under bond beam courses over
cores or cells of non-reinforced vertical cells, or provide units with solid bottoms.
E. Columns, Piers and Pilasters:
1. Use CMU units of the size, shape and number of vertical core spaces shown. If not shown,
use units which provide minimum clearances and grout coverage for number and size of
vertical reinforcement bars shown.
2. Provide pattern bond shown, or if not shown, alternate head joints in vertical alignment.
3. Where bonded pilaster construction is shown, lay wall and pilaster units together to maximum
pour height specified.
F. Grouting:
1. Use “Fine Grout” per ASTM C476 for filling spaces less than 100 mm (4 inches) in one or both
horizontal directions.
2. Use “Coarse Grout” per ASTM C476 for filling 100 mm (4 inch) spaces or larger in both
horizontal directions.
3. Grouting Technique: At the Contractor’s option, use either low-lift or high-lift grouting
techniques subject to requirements which follow.
G. Low-Lift Grouting:
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 28
1. Provide minimum clear dimension of 50 mm (2 inches) and clear area of 5160 mm 2 (8 square
inches) in vertical cores to be grouted.
2. Place vertical reinforcement prior to grouting of CMU. Extend above elevation of maximum
pour height as required for splicing. Support in position at vertical intervals not exceeding 192
bar diameters nor 3 m (10 feet).
3. Lay CMU to maximum pour height. Do not exceed 1.5 m (5 foot) height, or if bond beam
occurs below 1.5 m (5 foot) height, stop pour 38 mm (1-1/2 in) below top of bond beam.
4. Pour grout using chute container with spout or pump hose. Rod or vibrate grout during placing.
Place grout continuously; do not interrupt pouring of grout for more than one hour. Terminate
grout pours 38 mm (1-1/2 inches) below top course of pour.
5. Bond Beams: Stop grout in vertical cells 38 mm (1-1/2 inches) below bond beam course.
Place horizontal reinforcement in bond beams; lap at corners and intersections as shown.
Place grout in bond beam course before filling vertical cores above bond beam.
H. High-Lift Grouting:
1. Do not use high-lift grouting technique for grouting of CMU unless minimum cavity dimension
and area is 75 mm (3 inches) and 6450 mm2 (10 square inches), respectively.
2. Provide cleanout holes in first course at all vertical cells which are to be filled with grout.
3. Use units with one face shell removed and provide temporary supports for units above, or use
header units with concrete brick supports, or cut openings in one face shell.
4. Construct masonry to full height of maximum grout pour specified, prior to placing grout.
5. Limit grout lifts to a maximum height of 1.5 m (5 feet) and grout pour to a maximum height of
7.3 m (24 feet), for single wythe hollow concrete masonry walls, unless otherwise indicated.
6. Place vertical reinforcement before grouting. Place before or after laying masonry units, as
required by job conditions. Tie vertical reinforcement to dowels at base of masonry where
shown and thread CMU over or around reinforcement. Support vertical reinforcement at
intervals not exceeding 192 bar diameters nor 3 m (10 feet).
7. Where individual bars are placed after laying masonry, place wire loops extending into cells as
masonry is laid and loosed before mortar sets. After insertion of reinforcement bar, pull loops
and bar to proper position and tie free ends.
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 29
8. Where reinforcement is prefabricated into cage units before placing, fabricate units with
vertical reinforcement bars and lateral ties of the size and spacing indicated.
9. Place horizontal beam reinforcement as the masonry units are laid.
10. Embed lateral tie reinforcement in mortar joints where indicated. Place as masonry units are
laid, at vertical spacing shown.
11. Where lateral ties are shown in contact with vertical reinforcement bars, embed additional
lateral tie reinforcement in mortar joints. Place as shown, or if not shown, provide as required
to prevent grout blowout or rupture of CMU face shells, but provide not less than 4.1 mm
diameter (8 gage) wire ties spaced 400 mm (16 inches) o.c. for members with 500 mm (20
inches) or less side dimensions, and 200 mm (8 inches) o.c. for members with side
dimensions exceeding 500 mm (20 inches).
12. Preparation of Grout Spaces: Prior to grouting, inspect and clean grout spaces. Remove dust,
dirt, mortar droppings, loose pieces of masonry and other foreign materials from grout spaces.
Clean reinforcement and adjust to proper position. Clean top surface of structural members
supporting masonry to ensure bond. After final cleaning and inspection, close cleanout holes
and brace closures to resist grout pressures.
13. Do not place grout until entire height of masonry to be grouted has attained sufficient strength
to resist displacement of masonry units and breaking of mortar bond. Install shores and
bracing, if required, before starting grouting operations.
14. Place grout by pumping into grout spaces unless alternate methods are acceptable to the
HDC Clerk of Work.
15. Limit grout pours to sections which can be completed in one working day with not more than
one hour interruption of pouring operation. Place grout in lifts which do not exceed 1.5 m (5
feet). Allow not less than 30 minutes, nor more than one hour between lifts of a given pour.
Mechanically consolidate each grout lift during pouring operation.
16. Place grout in lintels or beams over openings in one continuous pour.
17. Where bond beam occurs more than one course below top of pour, fill bond beam course to
within 25 mm (1 inch) of vertically reinforced cavities, during construction of masonry.
18. When more than one pour is required to complete a given section of masonry, extend
reinforcement beyond masonry as required for splicing. Pour grout to within 38 mm (1-1/2
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 30
inches) of top course of first pour. After grouted masonry is cured, lay masonry units and place
reinforcement for second pour section before grouting. Repeat sequence if more pours are
required.
3.17 CLEANING AND REPAIR
A. General:
1. Clean exposed masonry surfaces on completion.
2. Protect adjoining construction materials and landscaping during cleaning operations.
3. Cut out defective exposed new joints to depth of approximately 19 mm (3/4 inch) and repoint.
4. Remove mortar droppings and other foreign substances from wall surfaces.
B. Brickwork:
1. First wet surfaces with clean water, then wash down with a solution of soapless detergent. Do
not use muriatic acid.
2. Brush with stiff fiber brushes while washing, and immediately thereafter hose down with clean
water.
3. Free clean surfaces of traces of detergent, foreign streaks, or stains of any nature.
C. Concrete Masonry Units:
1. Immediately following setting, brush exposed surfaces free of mortar or other foreign matter.
2. Allow mud to dry before brushing.
D. Glazed Structural Facing Tile or Brick Units:
1. Clean as recommended by tile or brick manufacturer. Protect light colored mortar joints from
discoloration during cleaning.
2. Prepare schedule of test locations.
---END---
04 20 00 UNIT MASONRY 31