Expert: Nazim Nice - 3/10/2011

Question
I am curious as to the current findings/studies on Cinder Block construction. I have a lot in BC and was told many people are using cinder block construction because it is supposed to be more efficient with heating "if" constructed correctly. But reading articles online state otherwise. Many state that it is colder than wood frames, more expensive and holds mold. Other issues seem to be contractors are unfamiliar with construction so ends up costing much more. I plan on assisting with the construction as much as I can and to be honest it looks fairly straight forward. If this is worth it, are there any hints/suggestions we should communicate to an architect?

Thank you

Answer
Hi Kyle,

Most of the residential construction in BC is wood framed. It is easier to construct, run wires and plumbing, and is easy to insulate. Concrete block (CMU) is definitely used but does tend to present some problems. It is more often used in commercial construction. You will find it hard to insulate unless you insulate it on the inside and cover up the CMU on the interior with drywall or other interior finish. Running electrical through a CMU wall is also difficult. Again, it is more typical to furr the wall out with wood or steel studs to run wiring and plumbing. An uninsulated CMU wall will likely not meet your local energy code either. You will likely need to find some way to insulate it. There are some green products like Durisol block that may work for you: http://www.durisolbuild.com/ . I used these once on a house with their insulation inserts, and then stuccoed the outside and plastered the interior. Running utilities is still challenging. Also, typically wood framed buildings are going to be flexible and withstand earthquakes well. A CMU building can withstand earthquakes, but will need to likely have rebar and concrete filled cavities to perform well. A structural engineer would be good to consult if you want to learn more about this. You are right that your typical residential contractor is likely not going to have that much experience working with CMU, and it is rather labor intensive. Most of the foundations are poured concrete in your area. It is typically faster and I feel like you end up with a better product in the end.

If you have any follow up questions feel free to post again.

Good luck!

Nazim Nice
Principal / Architect
http://www.motion-space.com
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