CMU Shear Walls (non-stacking/perforated)
CMU Shear Walls (non-stacking/perforated)
(OP)
I've looked in the MDG and other masonry books and can't find a solid answer, maybe someone can help. Can cmu shear walls be non-stacking from floor to floor? All the examples and books I've read show a multi story cmu building with openings that stack from floor to floor, what happens if the architect is set on staggering the windows? Can I use the bond beam as a strut similar to a top plate in a wood framed building? Can the bond beam resist the moments?
Also, can we design perforated shear walls with masonry?
Would there be different answers if it was a rigid or flexible diaphragm?
Thank you.
Also, can we design perforated shear walls with masonry?
Would there be different answers if it was a rigid or flexible diaphragm?
Thank you.






RE: CMU Shear Walls (non-stacking/perforated)
Old CA SE
RE: CMU Shear Walls (non-stacking/perforated)
If your question is asking if there can be an offset in the entire wall then you get into a whole other set of issues with plan irregularity, variable story stiffness and big forces to drag from one row to the next.
RE: CMU Shear Walls (non-stacking/perforated)
Usually, a CMU wall is much closer to a reinforced concrete wall because of the load distribution and load transfer to the other structural elements.
Since the structural behavior of masonry as very predictable, the vertical and horizontal loads are spread out in a orderly manner and can be analyzed. If additional reinforcement and grout are required at lower levels they can be easily and economically added. Obviously, full grouting without reinforcing being required is quite foolish and not structurally desired.
Dick