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Concrete & Masonryaka: CMUaka: concrete blockaka: cinder blockaka: brick

Masonry Unit

In Plain English

Any individual block, brick, or stone unit that is stacked with mortar to build a masonry wall.

Definition

A pre-formed block, brick, or stone used in the construction of masonry walls, foundations, and other structural or veneer assemblies. Types include concrete masonry units (CMU), clay brick, natural stone, and manufactured stone veneer. Masonry units are laid in mortar beds and coursed according to bond patterns to achieve structural integrity and appearance.

Why It Matters in Bidding

Masonry unit type, size, and bond pattern directly drive takeoff quantities, mortar and grout volumes, and the labor productivity an estimator applies, so precise unit identification is essential to an accurate masonry bid. Because units are priced per piece or per thousand and laid by skilled labor, errors in counting courses, openings, or accounting for waste and breakage can materially shift both material and labor cost.

Example

Quantifying a CMU wall, the estimator counts 8x8x16 units per square foot of wall area, deducts openings, then adds mortar, reinforcing, grout for filled cells, and a waste allowance for breakage.

Related Terms

GroutCementRebarMortar

Frequently Asked Questions

Estimators calculate net wall area, deduct openings, and apply a units-per-square-foot factor specific to the unit size and mortar joint. They then add mortar, reinforcing steel, grout for filled cells, ties, and flashing. A waste allowance for breakage and cuts is included, since field handling always consumes more units than the theoretical count.
Running bond is fastest and least costly, while stack bond, basket weave, herringbone, or coursed stone patterns slow productivity and increase waste from cutting. Decorative patterns and multiple unit sizes raise the labor rate per unit. Estimators should match productivity factors to the specified bond rather than using a single blended rate.
Structural CMU carries load and often includes grouted, reinforced cells, adding rebar and grout cost. Veneer—brick or manufactured stone—is non-load-bearing and requires ties, a backup wall, flashing, and weeps. The two have very different material, labor, and accessory costs, so they should be estimated as separate assemblies.

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