Burnished Masonry Unit Specifications
Click here for full burnished masonry unit specifications guide in PDF format.
PART 1 – GENERAL
SUBMITTAL
Submit color samples for selection from manufacturer’s group. Submit product literature, certifications, test reports and full size samples of each color specified.
QUALITY ASSURANCE
Certifications: Burnished Masonry Units shall comply with the recommendations of the National Concrete Masonry Association, and conform to ASTM C90, for hollow and solid load bearing units. Units shall be normal weight block, withstanding compression test loads of at least 3,000 psi for individual units, or 3,500 psi for an average of five units; basing load figures on the average net area of the blocks. Burnished Masonry Units shall meet or exceed requirements for ASTM C55-06e1. All faces of units shall be ground to a depth sufficient to uniformly expose the aggregates. A sample panel shall be constructed for approval of color and texture prior to erecting walls. All burnished units are to receive one coat of factory sealant. A second coat shall be applied in the field after the walls are erected.
RELATED INFORMATION
Fire Resistance: Hourly fire rating information, defined and required by NCMA TEK NOTES, available at www.grandblanccementproducts.com.
PART 2 – PRODUCTS
PRODUCT NAME
Burnished Masonry Unit
SIZES AND SHAPES
See “Resources” tab at www.grandblanccementproducts.com for all available sizes and shapes.
MANUFACTURER
Grand Blanc Cement Products, Inc. 10709 S. Center Road Grand Blanc, MI 48439 P 800-875-7500 F 810-694-2995
PART 3 – EXECUTION
LAYING MASONRY WALLS
All Burnished Masonry Units shall be drawn from more than one pallet at a time and must be laid using the best concrete masonry practices. Lay block with the faces level, plumb and true to the mason line strung horizontally at the finished side of the block. Both horizontal and vertical joints should be 3/8″ on the finished side of the wall. Joints should be neatly and uniformly tooled after they are finger-print hard. Cut pieces should be sized and placed properly to maintain bond and consistency.
INSTALLATION
Lighting: Always use adequate lighting for masonry work. For even and consistent illumination, always place lights at a reasonable distance from the wall. For best results, do not use trough lighting.
Cutting: Use the correct type of motor driven masonry saws to make all cuts, including those for bonding, holes, boxes etc. Use diamond or abrasive blades and make neat cuts to provide the best appearance.
MORTAR BED & JOINTING
Units shall be laid with full mortar coverage on head and bed joints without blocking cores. All joints shall be tooled when finger-print hard into a concave shape. Remove mortar from the face of masonry before it sets. Tuck-point all joints of scored units for creating proper appearance. All exterior scored units must be tuck-pointed to prevent water penetration. DO NOT RAKE JOINTS.
FINAL CLEANING
Prior to coat of sealant applied in the field, units shall be cleaned with Custom Masonry Cleaner by PROSOCO (never use acid) . Clean each block face equally, do not spot clean. Allow wall to dry completely before applying the field coat of sealant.
FIELD COAT APPLICATION
Apply an even coat of sealant, making sure the mortar joints are thoroughly covered. Airless spraying is always the preferred method. It is recommended that an experienced painting contractor apply the field coat of sealant. Manufacturer will provide the name of sealant used on each job upon request and reserves the right to change brands at its sole discretion. Use of an unauthorized coating or product will void any warranty that may otherwise apply. Future maintenance should only require normal cleaning for Interior Burnished Masonry. Exterior Burnished Masonry may require another coat of sealant after several years of weathering
Note: Consult NCMA TEK NOTES regarding proper installation techniques for concrete masonry.
Click here for full burnished masonry unit specifications guide in PDF format.