Masonry control joints in small buildings
Masonry control joints in small buildings
(OP)
Hi Everyone,
What are your thoughts on vertical control joints for small reinforced masonry structures? For example a 12' wide x 20' long x 8'8" tall reinforced masonry building with one 4' wide door opening on one 12' wall and the same opening on one 20' wall. The 8" CMU walls support a reinforced concrete slab.
I have read most if not all posts related to CJ's in masonry walls and have not seen this topic covered for small buildings. The building is in an area with large changes in moisture and temperature.
Thanks!
What are your thoughts on vertical control joints for small reinforced masonry structures? For example a 12' wide x 20' long x 8'8" tall reinforced masonry building with one 4' wide door opening on one 12' wall and the same opening on one 20' wall. The 8" CMU walls support a reinforced concrete slab.
I have read most if not all posts related to CJ's in masonry walls and have not seen this topic covered for small buildings. The building is in an area with large changes in moisture and temperature.
Thanks!






RE: Masonry control joints in small buildings
RE: Masonry control joints in small buildings
The openings are obvious places for cracks to occur. So, that's where they are of most use.
RE: Masonry control joints in small buildings
RE: Masonry control joints in small buildings
Jed - The building has reinforced bond beams at 48" O.C. Would you cut the reinforcement at the CJ or allow it to continue and score the block?
Thanks
RE: Masonry control joints in small buildings
RE: Masonry control joints in small buildings
I know they wall wants to crack at the openings but the joint tends to mess with the lintel above the opening especially when trying to drive wind loads through the wall. I don't know how people justify the wind loads at joints above openings.
I also know engineers who request the reinforcing not be continuous through the joint. They claim that it prevents the wall from shrinking properly however, this is not something I do.