Masonry Walls

Masonry Walls

Description
Description

Masonry walls are made by stacking individual masonry units, such as bricks, stones, or concrete blocks, and binding them together with mortar. Masonry walls can be load-bearing, meaning they support the weight of the structure above them, or non-load-bearing, meaning they provide support and separation but do not bear the weight of the structure. Masonry walls are a versatile building material that can be used for a variety of purposes, including exterior walls, interior walls, and retaining walls.

The first masonry walls were built by ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and the Romans. These early walls were made of stone and were often very large and impressive. In the Middle Ages, masonry walls became more common in Europe. They were used to build castles, churches, and other fortifications. In the 19th century, masonry walls began to be replaced by other materials, such as wood and concrete. However, masonry walls are still used today for some applications, such as building fireplaces and retaining walls.

Common Questions
Common Questions
What is a 'wythe' in masonry construction?

A 'wythe' in masonry refers to a continuous vertical section of masonry that is one unit in thickness. For example, in a brick wall, a wythe would be a single layer of bricks. Multiple wythes can be laid parallel to each other to construct a thicker, more stable masonry wall. The wythes may be either bonded together or separated by a cavity for additional insulation and moisture protection.

What causes failure in masonry walls?

Failure in masonry walls can be caused by several factors including excessive loads, leading to cracking or collapse. Foundation settlement or movement can induce stresses. Moisture penetration can cause deterioration or frost damage. Lack of or improper reinforcement and poor mortar quality can weaken the wall. Additionally, inadequate design, substandard construction practices, or use of low-quality materials may contribute to failure. Earthquakes can also cause failure if the masonry is not properly designed for seismic loads.

Why are masonry walls less common today?

Masonry walls are less common today because lighter, quicker, and more cost-effective construction materials like steel, wood, and concrete blocks are available. Additionally, masonry walls have limited flexibility and are not as resistant to seismic activities. The labor cost for masonry is also comparatively high, and modern construction often favors materials that offer better energy efficiency and insulation than traditional masonry.

* Under Development *

8’-40’ | 2.44-12.2 m
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
6”-24” | 15.2-61 cm
Concrete Wall - CMU
1220.000
975.000
61.000
5600
https://p3d.in/e/JrC1r
GUIDE
3D
Concrete Wall - CMUView of CMU Concrete Wall in 3D available for downloadView of CMU Concrete Wall in 3D available for download
8’-16’ | 2.44-4.88 m
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
7”-13.63” | 17.8-34.6 cm (Overall)
Concrete Wall - CMU, Drywall, Metal Furring
488.000
975.000
34.600
5600
https://p3d.in/e/OZnro
GUIDE
3D
Concrete Wall - CMU, Drywall, Metal FurringPerspective view of a 3D model of Metal Furring Drywall CMU WallPerspective view of a 3D model of Metal Furring Drywall CMU Wall
8’-16’ | 2.44-4.88 m
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
9.63”-17.63” | 24.5-44.8 cm (Overall)
Concrete Wall - CMU, Drywall, Wood Studs
488.000
975.000
44.800
5600
https://p3d.in/e/P3je2
GUIDE
3D
Concrete Wall - CMU, Drywall, Wood Studs3D model of Wood Stud Drywall CMU Wall viewed in perspective3D model of Wood Stud Drywall CMU Wall viewed in perspective
8’-16’ | 2.44-4.88 m
9.25”-10.25” | 23.5-26 cm (Typical)
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Masonry Wall - Brick, Cavity
488.000
26.000
975.000
400
https://p3d.in/e/YG34t
GUIDE
3D
Masonry Wall - Brick, CavityView of Cavity Brick Masonry Wall in 3D available for downloadView of Cavity Brick Masonry Wall in 3D available for download
8’-16’ | 2.44-4.88 m
11.63” | 29.5 cm (Overall)
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Masonry Wall - Brick, Drywall, Double
488.000
29.500
975.000
150
https://p3d.in/e/6Yl9e
GUIDE
3D
Masonry Wall - Brick, Drywall, DoublePerspective view of a 3D model of Drywall Double Brick Masonry WallPerspective view of a 3D model of Drywall Double Brick Masonry Wall
8’-12’ | 2.44-3.66 m
7.63” | 19.4 cm (Overall)
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Masonry Wall - Brick, Drywall, Single
366.000
19.400
975.000
150
https://p3d.in/e/9xNVc
GUIDE
3D
Masonry Wall - Brick, Drywall, Single3D model of Drywall Single Brick Masonry Wall viewed in perspective3D model of Drywall Single Brick Masonry Wall viewed in perspective
8’-16’ | 2.44-4.88 m
3.63”, 7.63” | 9.2, 19.4 cm
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Masonry Wall - Brick, Solid
488.000
19.400
975.000
700
https://p3d.in/e/tLXma
GUIDE
3D
Masonry Wall - Brick, SolidView of Solid Brick Masonry Wall in 3D available for downloadView of Solid Brick Masonry Wall in 3D available for download
8’-16’ | 2.44-4.88 m
11.25”-15.25” | 28.6-38.7 cm (Varies)
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Masonry Wall - Composite, Cavity
488.000
38.700
975.000
150
https://p3d.in/e/NFUcw
GUIDE
3D
Masonry Wall - Composite, CavityPerspective view of a 3D model of Cavity Composite Masonry WallPerspective view of a 3D model of Cavity Composite Masonry Wall
8’-16’ | 2.44-4.88 m
9.5”-11.5” | 24.1-29.2 cm (Typical)
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Masonry Wall - Composite, Solid
488.000
29.200
975.000
150
https://p3d.in/e/Apabp
GUIDE
3D
Masonry Wall - Composite, Solid3D model of Solid Composite Masonry Wall viewed in perspective3D model of Solid Composite Masonry Wall viewed in perspective
8’-24’ | 2.44-7.32 m
8”, 12”, 18”, 24” | 20, 30.5, 46, 61 cm
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Masonry Wall - Rammed Earth
732.000
61.000
975.000
2800
https://p3d.in/e/SUGpA
GUIDE
3D
Masonry Wall - Rammed EarthView of Rammed Earth Wall in 3D available for downloadView of Rammed Earth Wall in 3D available for download
Concrete Wall - CMU
Scale illustration of CMU Concrete Wall compared to other concrete wall systems

CMU concrete walls are constructed using Concrete Masonry Units (CMUs), also known as concrete blocks or cinder blocks. CMUs are hollow rectangular blocks made from concrete and are assembled on-site with mortar to form walls. This construction method is prized for its versatility, as CMUs can be used for both structural and non-structural walls.

The hollow cores can be filled with reinforcing materials or insulation. CMU walls are durable, fire-resistant, and provide good thermal mass, making them popular in various types of construction. However, they can be more labor-intensive and time-consuming to construct compared to precast concrete wall systems.

CMU Concrete Walls are constructed with wall depths of 6”-24” (15.2-61 cm) and typical overall wall widths of 12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical). Overall heights for CMU Concrete Walls are commonly between 8’-40’ (2.44-12.2 m).

Group of dimensioned illustrations of CMU Concrete Wall seen in elevation and plan
CMU concrete walls are constructed using Concrete Masonry Units (CMUs), also known as concrete blocks or cinder blocks. CMUs are hollow rectangular blocks made from concrete and are assembled on-site with mortar to form walls. This construction method is prized for its versatility.

CMU Concrete Walls are constructed with wall depths of 6”-24” (15.2-61 cm) and typical overall wall widths of 12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical). Overall heights for CMU Concrete Walls are commonly between 8’-40’ (2.44-12.2 m).

Group of dimensioned illustrations of CMU Concrete Wall seen in elevation and plan
Concrete Wall - CMU
Height:
8’-40’ | 2.44-12.2 m
Width:
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Length:
Depth:
6”-24” | 15.2-61 cm
Weight:
Area:
Materials
Reinforced concrete, CMU block

Drawings include:

CMU Concrete Wall elevation (various sizes), side, plan

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Concrete Wall - CMU, Drywall, Metal Furring
Style and size comparison drawing of Metal Furring Drywall CMU Wall compared to other concrete wall systems

Metal Furring and Drywall CMU concrete walls combine Concrete Masonry Units (CMU) with a layer of drywall attached via metal furring channels. This system is employed to achieve a smoother finish and additional insulation in CMU walls. The metal furring is attached to the CMU wall, creating a gap between the wall and the drywall.

This gap can be filled with insulation, improving thermal performance and soundproofing. The drywall provides a clean, smooth surface ready for painting or other finishes. This hybrid system combines the structural strength of CMU with the aesthetic versatility and insulation properties of drywall.

Metal Furring Drywall CMU Walls are constructed with common heights of 8’-16’ (2.44-4.88 m), typical widths of 12’-32’ (3.66-9.75 m), and overall wall depths of 7”-13.63” (17.8-34.6 cm). The furring is spaced at 16” (40.6 cm) with furring depths of .875”, 1.5” (2.2, 3.8 cm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Metal Furring Drywall CMU Wall viewed from the front and plan
Metal Furring and Drywall CMU concrete walls combine Concrete Masonry Units (CMU) with a layer of drywall attached via metal furring channels. This system is employed to achieve a smoother finish and additional insulation in CMU walls. The metal furring is attached to the CMU wall.

Metal Furring Drywall CMU Walls are constructed with common heights of 8’-16’ (2.44-4.88 m), typical widths of 12’-32’ (3.66-9.75 m), and overall wall depths of 7”-13.63” (17.8-34.6 cm). The furring is spaced at 16” (40.6 cm) with furring depths of .875”, 1.5” (2.2, 3.8 cm).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Metal Furring Drywall CMU Wall viewed from the front and plan
Concrete Wall - CMU, Drywall, Metal Furring
Height:
8’-16’ | 2.44-4.88 m
Width:
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Length:
Depth:
7”-13.63” | 17.8-34.6 cm (Overall)
Weight:
Area:

Drywall Thickness: .5” | 1.3 cm

Furring Depth: .875”, 1.5” | 2.2, 3.8 cm

Furring Spacing: 16” | 40.6 cm

Materials
Reinforced concrete, CMU block, gypsum drywall, metal

Drawings include:

Metal Furring Drywall CMU Wall elevation (various sizes), side, plan

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Concrete Wall - CMU, Drywall, Wood Studs
Comparison drawing of Wood Stud Drywall CMU Wall compared to similar concrete wall systems

Wood Studs and Drywall CMU concrete walls combine the strength of Concrete Masonry Units (CMU) with the versatility of a wood stud framework and drywall finishing. In this system, wooden studs are attached to the CMU wall, creating a frame to which drywall can be affixed. The space between the studs can be filled with insulation for enhanced thermal and acoustic performance.

This combination is advantageous for providing a smooth interior finish while retaining the structural benefits of CMU. It allows for easy installation of utilities and offers flexibility in interior design, making it a popular choice in residential construction.

Wood Stud Drywall CMU Walls are constructed with common heights of 8’-16’ (2.44-4.88 m), typical widths of 12’-32’ (3.66-9.75 m), and overall wall depths of 9.63”-17.63” (24.5-44.8 cm). The studs are spaced at 24” (61 cm) with stud depths of 3.5”, 5.5” (8.9, 14 cm).

Scaled set of drawings of Wood Stud Drywall CMU Wall in side and top views
Wood Studs and Drywall CMU concrete walls combine the strength of Concrete Masonry Units (CMU) with the versatility of a wood stud framework and drywall finishing. In this system, wooden studs are attached to the CMU wall, creating a frame to which drywall can be affixed.

Wood Stud Drywall CMU Walls are constructed with common heights of 8’-16’ (2.44-4.88 m), typical widths of 12’-32’ (3.66-9.75 m), and overall wall depths of 9.63”-17.63” (24.5-44.8 cm). The studs are spaced at 24” (61 cm) with stud depths of 3.5”, 5.5” (8.9, 14 cm).

Scaled set of drawings of Wood Stud Drywall CMU Wall in side and top views
Concrete Wall - CMU, Drywall, Wood Studs
Height:
8’-16’ | 2.44-4.88 m
Width:
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Length:
Depth:
9.63”-17.63” | 24.5-44.8 cm (Overall)
Weight:
Area:

Drywall Thickness: .5” | 1.3 cm

Stud Depth: 3.5”, 5.5” | 8.9, 14 cm

Stud Spacing: 24” | 61 cm

Materials
Reinforced concrete, CMU block, gypsum drywall, timber

Drawings include:

Wood Stud Drywall CMU Wall elevation (various sizes), side, plan

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Masonry Wall - Brick, Drywall, Double
Style and size comparison drawing of Drywall Double Brick Masonry Wall compared to other masonry wall systems

A drywall brick masonry wall with a double brick wythe is an advanced construction method blending strength and insulation. The two layers of brickwork, or "wythes," provide enhanced structural integrity and resistance compared to single brick walls. Positioned behind this robust brick façade, a framework of wood or steel studs supports the interior finishes. Within this framework, insulation is inserted, ensuring superior thermal and sound insulation. The innermost layer consists of drywall or gypsum board, offering a smooth finish for interior decoration. This composite construction method merges the durability of double brickwork with the flexibility of modern insulating and finishing materials.

Drywall Double Brick Masonry Walls are constructed with a typical overall wall depth of 11.63” (29.5 cm). Drywall studs are spaced at 16”, 24” (41, 61 cm), with a typical stud depth of 3.5” (8.9 cm), and drywall thickness of .5” (1.3 cm). Overall heights of Drywall Double Brick Masonry Walls are commonly between 8’-16’ (2.44-4.88 m) with wall lengths of 12’-32’ (3.66-9.75 m).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Drywall Double Brick Masonry Wall viewed from the front and plan
A drywall brick masonry wall with a double brick wythe is an advanced construction method blending strength and insulation. The two layers of brickwork, or "wythes," provide enhanced structural integrity and resistance compared to single brick walls.

Drywall Double Brick Masonry Walls are constructed with a typical overall wall depth of 11.63” (29.5 cm). Drywall studs are spaced at 16”, 24” (41, 61 cm), with a typical stud depth of 3.5” (8.9 cm), and drywall thickness of .5” (1.3 cm). Overall heights of Drywall Double Brick Masonry Walls are commonly between 8’-16’ (2.44-4.88 m) with wall lengths of 12’-32’ (3.66-9.75 m).

Set of scaled dimensioned drawings of Drywall Double Brick Masonry Wall viewed from the front and plan
Masonry Wall - Brick, Drywall, Double
Height:
8’-16’ | 2.44-4.88 m
Width:
Length:
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Depth:
11.63” | 29.5 cm (Overall)
Weight:
Area:

Drywall Thickness: .5” | 1.3 cm
Brick (Nominal): 4” x 2.25” x 8”

Mortar Joints: .375” | 9.5 mm

Furring Depth: 3.5” | 8.9 cm

Furring Spacing: 16”, 24” | 41, 61 cm

Materials
Fired clay brick; gypsum drywall; timber studs; metal ties

Drawings include:

Drywall Double Brick Masonry Wall elevation, side, plan

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads

Masonry Wall - Brick, Solid
Scale illustration of Solid Brick Masonry Wall compared to other masonry wall systems

A solid brick masonry wall is a timeless construction method that employs densely packed bricks, bonded together with mortar, to create a sturdy and continuous barrier. Its monolithic nature ensures durability and robustness, resisting both compressive loads and external elements. Historically revered for its longevity, it also offers natural thermal mass, which can help in moderating indoor temperatures. The aesthetic appeal of exposed brickwork, with its rich texture and color variations, adds character to structures. However, its massiveness demands precision in laying and more material compared to cavity or veneered walls. This construction method stands as a testament to both the art and resilience of traditional building techniques.

Solid Brick Masonry Walls are constructed with typical overall wall depths of 3.63”, 7.63” (9.2, 19.4 cm) for single and double wythes. Overall heights of Solid Brick Masonry Walls are commonly between 8’-16’ (2.44-4.88 m) with wall lengths of 12’-32’ (3.66-9.75 m).

Group of dimensioned illustrations of Solid Brick Masonry Wall seen in elevation and plan
A solid brick masonry wall is a timeless construction method that employs densely packed bricks, bonded together with mortar, to create a sturdy and continuous barrier. Its monolithic nature ensures durability and robustness, resisting both compressive loads and external elements.

Solid Brick Masonry Walls are constructed with typical overall wall depths of 3.63”, 7.63” (9.2, 19.4 cm) for single and double wythes. Overall heights of Solid Brick Masonry Walls are commonly between 8’-16’ (2.44-4.88 m) with wall lengths of 12’-32’ (3.66-9.75 m).

Group of dimensioned illustrations of Solid Brick Masonry Wall seen in elevation and plan
Masonry Wall - Brick, Solid
Height:
8’-16’ | 2.44-4.88 m
Width:
Length:
12’-32’ | 3.66-9.75 m (Typical)
Depth:
3.63”, 7.63” | 9.2, 19.4 cm
Weight:
Area:

Mortar Joints: .375” | 9.5 mm

Brick (Nominal): 4” x 2.25” x 8”

Materials
Fired clay brick; mortar

Drawings include:

Solid Brick Masonry Wall elevation, side, plan

Downloads

2D Downloads

3D Downloads