A cinder block is a block made of concrete using a material called cinder (fly ash or bottom ash) as an aggregate. It is a type of construction material used in the building industry to create walls, foundations, and other structures. Cinder blocks are usually between 8 inches and 18 inches in length and 4 inches to 12 inches in width. They are usually made with a standard size of 8x8x16 inches.
The dimensions of the cinder block can vary depending on the desired use for it. The bigger the cinder block, the more load it can carry and the more weight it can support. This means that bigger blocks will be better suited for use as foundations whereas smaller blocks will be better suited for interior walls or flooring purposes.
Cinder Block Dimensions based on ASTM Standards
Cinder blocks come in various sizes, but a common size is 8 inches wide, 8 inches tall, and 16 inches long. They also come in a variety of densities, ranging from low-density blocks that are lightweight and easier to work with, to high-density blocks that are stronger and more durable.
It is also available in a half CMU length of 8 inches, with the cinder blocks measuring 3/8 inches shorter to accommodate mortar joints.
Nominal dimensions are the module sizes used for bond pattern design and modular layout with regard to door and window apertures.
Concrete masonry units specified 3 dimensions are normally 3/8 in. (9.5 mm) smaller than nominal dimensions, resulting in a 4 or 8 in. (101.6 or 203 mm) module with 3/8 in. (9.5 mm) mortar joints. The figure shown below illustrates the nominal and specified dimensions of a concrete masonry unit measuring 8 x 8 x 16 in. (203 x 203 × 406 mm). Other unit heights, lengths, and thicknesses may be available from local concrete masonry companies in addition to these conventional sizes.
Other dimensions of cinder blocks may include:
- 4 inches x 8 inches x 16 inches
- 6 inches x 8 inches x 16 inches
- 8 inches x 8 inches x 24 inches
- 12 inches x 8 inches x 16 inches
Cinder Block Vs Concrete Block
Cinder Block:
A cinder block contains cinder as an aggregate. Cinder is a form of fly ash derived from the non-combustible residue of combustion in a power plant, boiler, furnace, or incinerator. It is a method of recycling this material.
Concrete Block:
A concrete block has gravel as an aggregate; however, the term concrete can refer to anything from recycled concrete to sand. As an aggregate for concrete, almost anything can be used.
