{Re}habitat

Glass block may be used as partitions, security barriers, or windows in interior or exterior applications where a partially-transparent effect is desired. Produced as solid or hollow units, glass block is available in clear or textured patterns, with applied tints and coatings, and with opacifiers and fiber fill.

Architectural concrete unit masonry is used as an architectural finish for interior and exterior walls, partitions, terrace walls, and other enclosures. Decorative CMU with textures, patterns, or other special finishes may be chosen for aesthetic attributes. Some units are available with the same treatment or pattern on both faces, to serve as both exterior and interior finish wall material.

Concrete unit masonry is a form of masonry which uses prefabricated concrete blocks, including hollow or solid architectural concrete masonry units (CMU). To be considered solid, units must be at least 75 percent solid. Hollow concrete units are preferred because of the reduced weight, easier handling, and lower cost.Concrete masonry units are made from hydraulic cement, water, and mineral aggregates with or without the inclusion of other materials. CMU are molded using a relatively dry mix of cement and aggregates; they are compacted and consolidated using low-frequency, high-amplitude vibration, and then cured under controlled temperature and humidity. These units are suitable for both loadbearing and non-loadbearing applications.

This topic includes information related to design and construction with ceramic glazed clay masonry. Appropriate for both load-bearing and non-load-bearing applications, ceramic glazed clay masonry is a durable and resilient building material. Glazing ceramic over masonry allows for a multitude of color and finish options, that are resistant to fade, scratches and graffiti.

Unit masonry, whether employing natural stone or manmade units, provides the designer with a broad variety of choices of materials, sizes, colors, and textures. Units may include solid or hollow clay brick, adobe, concrete block, glass block, structural clay facing tile, terra cotta, stone, or other special units. Masonry assemblies may be load-bearing or non-load-bearing, grouted or non-grouted, reinforced or non-reinforced, single- or multi-wythe. Whatever materials are used, the skill of the mason is key to a successful installation.

Masonry accessories include materials incidental to masonry construction, including control and expansion joints, concealed flashing, drainage materials, weeps, and vents.