Masonry Magazine May 1971 Page. 19
Using colored sands, cement, and aggregates to produce the desired color is recommended where possible. This will result in more natural appearance and can more easily be duplicated in the event of future additions to the structure. Color can also be altered or enhanced by aging and erosion, by sand blasting, or by the action of acid or detergent cleaners. A sparkling white color can also be achieved through use of natural white sand and white cement.
Not all of the customized architectural concrete masonry variations which have thus far been developed are produced in all localities. But in many cases the manufacturer can obtain the molds necessary for production, just as he can obtain molds for special designs of blocks which may be created by the designer, provided the size of the job warrants.
While the design is in early stages of development it is well worth while for the architect to arrange for consultation with the local supplier, he can thus find out what shapes are readily available locally. In some cases he may find an acceptable substitute for the design he has in mind. It can also give him the opportunity to discover other designs which he may well be surprised and gratified to have brought to his attention.
Materials
Primary purpose for the use of architectural concrete masonry units is appearance-form, texture, and color. The nonesthetic physical properties necessary for the units to perform satisfactorily are often taken for granted. For this reason material specifications should be adequate to assure the degree of performance expected. Because these units are used more often than not in an exterior, non-protected application, requirements should be such as to provide durability under expected exposure conditions. Experience has indicated that a combination of high strength and low absorption properties for these units results in good performance. It is for this reason that the physical requirements of ASTM C-55, Specification for Concrete Building Brick, Grade U-I are often referenced. This spe-
OFFSET FACE
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DEPRESSED FACE
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STRI-FACE
SPLIT RIBBED
SERPENTINE
SCULPTURED-FACE