Block/CMU Wall Scans

NON-DESTRUCTIVE X-RAY TESTING OF CMU WALLS

Without proper grouting, concrete walls can be dangerous and unsound!

Do you know if your walls are structurally safe?

Block walls (CMU) are a commonly used construction method - yet once a block wall is covered, it can be almost impossible to "see" issues within the block wall. Thermography is a non-destructive method to inspect CMU for proper grouting and insulation (including areas of missing grout and insulation) and to ensure proper location of structural components.

Infrared Thermography can be used to locate grout that has been poured into block or concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls. Opening up holes or drilling into a block wall is common on a construction site. This is performed to evaluate and determine if the cells, bond beams or other structural components have been filled with grout. Infrared Thermography makes this destructive practice unnecessary. Statistically, if you measure the diameter of a hammer or drill head and compare it to the size of the wall, your sample size is so small that the test is inconclusive. Now you are left with an inclusive test and holes in your wall! Let's assume you guessed correctly and drill into an area with no grout. Congratulations, now where is the blockage?

An infrared scan is the best practice for determining the placement of grout in a CMU wall. This scan is non-destructive, inexpensive and accurate.

What are the benefits of a CMU Infrared Scan?

•    You have a documented record of the structural components and cells
•    If discrepancies are noted, the areas needing repair are easy to pinpoint and correct. An additional scan can confirm these repairs.
•    Reduces the liability of all parties to the process. If the wall or structural elements fail (act of god, impact, etc.), a forensic examination of the damage may reveal issues that could have been discovered by an infrared scan. The masonry contractor, general contractor, professional engineer, architect, building owner and developer will be held accountable.
•    Most projects use the lowest bidder. An infrared scan is a prudent investment to insure that your low bidder is performing the work as specified. If the low bidder knows the wall is to be scanned, they will have to build to the specifications or face the cost of repair and loss of schedule.

CMU Block Wall IR Image