Quiet, comfortable, functional spaces start with CMU. Concrete masonry walls inherently reduce noise thanks to their mass — with no special detailing, finishes or channels required. Whether reducing traffic noise from outside or audibly separating rooms inside, CMU delivers reliable acoustic performance that enhances occupant comfort regardless of whether the performance objective is code-based or beyond code minimums to achieve wellness-centric sustainable metrics.
DETERMINING ACOUSIC BEHAVIOR
STC (Sound Transmission Class):
Measures interior sound control. CMU walls can achieve STC ratings one would expect of recording studios and medical facilities.
OITC (Outdoor-Indoor Transmission Class):
Measures exterior noise control. Ideal for traffic, aircraft and low-frequency sounds.
Performance Formula:
STC = 20.5(W)0.234
OITC = 14.7(W)0.29
(where W = wall weight lb/ft2)
CMU PERFORMANCE
Built-In Performance:
Even bare CMU delivers strong sound reduction without extra materials.
Tunable Assemblies:
Designers can customize performance objectives by varying CMU density, grout spacing, thickness and finishes.
Healthy Buildings:
Better acoustics improve occupant comfort, learning and productivity.
Code Alignment:
Supported by TMS 302 and CMHA TEK guidance, making compliance simple.
APPLICATIONS
Schools & Universities – Quiet classrooms, lecture halls, libraries.
Hospitals – Noise reduction for patient recovery and privacy.
Residential – Apartments, homes, and hotels with enhanced comfort.
Commercial – Malls, theaters, and executive offices where sound separation is critical.
CUSTOMIZABLE OPTIONS
Finishes: Different finishes used to tune STC ratings.
Surface Textures: CMU textures and specialized unit configurations absorb and diffuse sound.
Insulated Furring Layers: Improves both thermal and acoustic comfort.
CONCRETE MASONRY = QUIET CONFIDENCE
Concrete masonry walls inherently provide durable, cost-effective acoustic performance — protecting building occupants from unwanted noise while
improving quality of life.
