Finishes & materials · Glossary
CMU
Also called: Concrete Masonry Unit, cinder block, concrete block
CMU (Concrete Masonry Unit) is a precast concrete block used for structural walls, retaining walls, foundations, and garden walls. Standard CMU measures 8x8x16 inches and can be reinforced with rebar and grout-filled cells for load-bearing applications.
Why this matters for renovation projects
CMU shows up on permits, contracts, or estimates that Renology covers across LA, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, and Denver. Most homeowners encounter the term once a project is already mid-flight, when there is no time to learn its mechanics without slowing the contractor. Knowing what it means before signing the contract is the difference between a clean project and an avoidable surprise. For how Renology calibrates cost ranges against permit valuations and contractor invoices, see the methodology.