Sanctuary School & Studio
Welcome to our School & Studio! Where you can Learn "how It's Done" and pick out options via our studio below within the sub service you have selected to view:
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School: Knowledge on how the sub-service is done.
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Studio: Options on all materials/colors for selected sub-service.
What are CMU's? (Cinderblocks)
- Concrete Masonry Units (CMU blocks) are versatile building materials commonly used in residential landscaping throughout Orange County. These blocks are durable and provide structural integrity, making them ideal for a variety of applications such as retaining walls, garden beds, outdoor amenities, and much more. Their size and shape allow for easy stacking and arrangement, enabling Orange County homeowners to create attractive and functional outdoor spaces. Additionally, CMU blocks can be finished with various textures and colors, allowing for customization to enhance the aesthetic appeal of any property in cities like Irvine and Newport Beach. Other types of CMU, such as split face and slump stone, offer a finished look that eliminates the need for additional finishing, further simplifying the design process.
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School
Our official "How It's Done" section to help educate our clients to understand our industry leading installation process!​​
Course: HOW IS CMU MASONRY INSTALLED?
Process - CMU Masonry Installation
Discover our step by step guide on how we bring your Landscape projects to life. Unless otherwise stated in your contract, all installations pertaining to any CMU Masonry application are performed in the exact outlined method!
Phase 1: Foundation & Preparation
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A level and stable foundation is essential for any CMU block structure. This may involve excavating the area and pouring a concrete footing to ensure long-term stability.
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The foundation surface is cleaned and prepared to ensure proper adhesion of the first course of blocks.
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Important Note: If the CMU wall is retaining or exceeds 6 feet in height, engineering will be required to determine proper load calculations and obtain necessary permits. In some cases, even perimeter fences, regardless of height, may require permits.
Phase 2: Laying The First Course
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A bed of mortar is applied to the foundation. The type of mortar used will vary depending on the application and environmental conditions. For example, a higher strength mortar may be used for load-bearing walls or in areas with harsh weather exposure, while a standard mortar mix may be suitable for non-load-bearing walls or interior applications.
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The first course of CMU blocks is carefully laid, ensuring proper alignment and spacing.
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Each block is checked for level and plumb, and adjustments are made as needed to maintain a straight and even course.
Phase 3: Building The Wall
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Subsequent courses of CMU blocks are laid, with mortar applied to both the horizontal and vertical joints.
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Blocks are staggered to enhance the wall's strength and stability.
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To further reinforce the wall, steel rebar is often inserted vertically into the hollow cores of the blocks at predetermined intervals. This rebar is then typically grouted into place, creating a robust and integrated structure.
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Control Joints: Depending on the length and height of the wall, control joints may be incorporated to allow for expansion and contraction of the blocks, preventing cracking and ensuring long-term structural integrity. These joints are typically created by installing a compressible material, such as foam or sealant, at regular intervals along the wall.
Phase 4: Finishing Touches & Completion
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Once the desired height is reached, the top course of blocks is capped with a suitable material, such as capstones or a concrete pour, to provide a finished look and protect the wall from the elements.
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Mortar joints are tooled to create a neat and uniform appearance.
You can view our School & Studio for WALL CAPS HERE & for FINISHES HERE to complete your wall!
Click here to view detail on CMU PERMIT REQUIREMENTS
through Sanctuary School & Studio.
Sanctuary Schematics PDF
Click above to view LADBS wall detail section with information on permit requirements.
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Studio
Our Official Studio will guide you through all options we carry within the selected category to expertly guide you in your decision making process!
Studio Display: Our Selection of CMU!
When it comes to masonry you have 2 options:
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Bare CMU unfinished Which typically is finished with stucco, paint, or veneers.
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​Slump or Split Stone CMU which offer a finished look that eliminates the need for additional finishing.
Click above to view finishes for BARE CMU
Click above to view wall cap options for all walls.
(Additionally to the stone you will have to select a grout color, typically this is only important for SLUMP or SPLIT STONE as regular BARE CMU is normally covered with a finish.)
1. Bare CMU (Unfinished)
Standard Concrete Masonry Unit
Concrete masonry units, commonly known as CMU, are made through a process that involves mixing cement, water, and aggregates such as sand or gravel. The mixture is poured into molds to form the desired block shape and then compacted heavily to ensure density and rigid structure. Afterward, blocks are cured, typically in a controlled environment, to allow the concrete to harden and gain strength. Standard CMU blocks typically measure 8 inches high by varying inches long,
Sizes Available
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8x8x16
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6x8x16
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12x6x16
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12x8x16
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6x6x16
2. Split-Face & Slump Stone CMU
First please select a color of stone from either split-face or slump selections, then select a grout color!
Split-Face Stone CMU
Splitface stone, often used in construction, refers to a type of concrete masonry unit (CMU) has a textured surface created by splitting the block during the manufacturing process. This technique exposes the aggregate within the concrete, giving it a rough, natural appearance that is aesthetically pleasing for both interior and exterior applications. The splitface finish not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a durable surface that can withstand various weather conditions. Ideal for walls, foundations, and landscaping, splitface stone combines functionality with an appealing design.
Sizes Available
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8x8x16
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6x8x16
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12x6x16
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12x8x16
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6x6x16
Silver
Sienna Brown
Onyx
Oak
Greystone
Finishes
Slump Stone CMU
Slump stone is a type of concrete masonry unit that is known for its unique, rustic appearance. It is created by pouring concrete into specially designed molds that allow the material to slump, or settle, into a distinctive shape. This process results in a textured surface that mimics the look of natural stone making it a popular choice for both decorative and structural applications. Often used in walls, fences, and landscaping features, slump stone combines durability with aesthetic appeal.
Sizes Available
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6x8x16
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12x6x16
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6x6x16
Natural Gray
Mission Brown
La Paz Natural
Gold
Grout Colors
Grout / Mortar Selection
Grout is a vital component in masonry construction, particularly between concrete masonry unit (CMU) blocks. It serves to fill the seams, providing structural integrity and to the wall system. Additionally, grout helps to prevent moisture intrusion and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the installation. Below, you'll find a selection of colors to choose from, allowing you customize the look of your project while ensuring a strong and durable finish.