CMU Basics | Weights

Within standards applicable to cmu are three classifications of weight, or density, expressed in pounds per cubic foot: normalweight, mediumweight, and lightweight.

Normalweight is 125 lbs./cu. ft. and over. Normalweight items are primarily stocked in sizes and types appropriate for “Site Wall” applications: fence walls, site/perimeter walls, retaining walls, etc. Normalweight products are typically manufactured in a precision type texture, and stocked in colors such as Gray, Sand (tan), and Pink. For a complete view of all normalweight colors and textures, please see Colors and Textures.

Mediumweight is less than 125 to 105 lbs./cu. ft. Mediumweight is the most commonly used weight classification for “Structural” applications. Mediumweight products are extensively stocked in a wide variety of sizes in both precision and split face textures. For color, Gray and Sand (tan) are available as stock colors. For a complete view of all Mediumweight colors and textures (including special order colors) please see
Colors and Textures.        

Lightweight is less than 105 lbs./cu. ft. Lightweight products are primarily specified for use in a  “Structural” application. Lightweight products are considered to be Special Order. Please consult your Desert Block representative to verify availability.

Note: both mediumweight and lightweight units are made with “lightweight” aggregates. To specify a cmu solely on the statement that it be made with lightweight aggregates does not provide adequate definition.

Of the three weights, normalweight is the least expensive and lightweight is the most expensive. Mediumweight is most popular (and therefore has greatest availability) for structural applications as its moderate weight and cost generally offer the best labor production to material cost ratio.

For average weights per units and wall area, please see Wall Weights and Areas.

For non-architectural inquiries, click here.