Concrete Form Masonry Unit
What is a CFMU?
A CFMU blends unit masonry construction with cast-in-place concrete construction to create an efficient, single process, composite wall system. The standard webs and cells of a typical concrete block have been removed and replaced with high strength polymer insert connectors. The connector acts as a form tie between two masonry face shells. Additionally, the system comes with a built in rigid insulation insert and an integral weep cavity for water drainage. The result is a wall assembly that is water tight, exceptionally energy efficient and tremendously strong. Why use it?
The system provides a better overall masonry solution. It is stronger, more durable, resists moisture and it's 45% lighter than traditional masonry block. You'll 
save countless man-hours, shipping charges, and increased productivity, not to mention the superior performance the system offers. Created in Alaska's formidable and unforgiving climate, CFMU was designed to solve many of the common problems associated with traditional block structures: labor intensive, low R-values, water/air leakage, and weight. Not only does the system overcome these functional problems, but at the same time utilizes masonry faces that allow the designer to select a wide variety of finish options, from brick and block, to stone and tile.
Design Flexibility
When did you last work on a commercial project where the owner said "Price is not an object, we just want the best wall money can buy..."?
Chances are, you may have specified an ideal cavity wall: with your veneer paying homage to the landscape and your interior finishes providing a comfortable and elegant living space- while your structural members had the job of keeping the roof securely in place above the walls. In most places, price is a determining factor, and with the advent of architectural CMU, many designers have turned to "single wythe" masonry construction to cut initial costs.
The nature of the traditional CMU is such: a CMU that is integrally colored will be the same color(s) throughout. Ergo: a single wythe CMU wall will be the same color on both sides.
The CFMU combines the design options of having 2 separate materials for the inner and outer face shells allowing for the design possibilities and performance of your ideal cavity wall with the foot print and economics of a single wythe wall.
Imagine all you favorite concrete masonry colors, finishes, textures, combined with brick, granite, or limestone - all relying on a reinforced concrete structural member to carry the load.
The veneers are the concrete form (hence the name: Concrete Form Masonry Unit) - so there are no post -applied veneer to deal with - one trade, one operation. As with traditional CMU, by varying individual’s units bond patterns can be created. The interior face shells and the exterior walls of this home are not all made with the same materials.
CLICK HERE to see the various shapes and sizes available.
For additional technical information please contact:
Ken Chastain @ 763-682-7119 or ken.chastain@nationalwall.com
