scope:

CATS Abstract:

NCMA promotes the use of concrete masonry through the development and dissemination of technical information. This manual was compiled to assist the designer, builder, or owner in the preparation of constructing with concrete masonry. The discussion, design tables, and construction details are intended to assist architects and engineers in the design of foundation walls and to acquaint builders and contractors with recommended construction methods and details. The material presented does not cover all possible situations but is intended to represent some of the more widely used concrete masonry construction details and other pertinent information. Factors such as soil conditions and building code requirements can vary significantly, even in the same locality. For this reason, the information contained in this handbook is necessarily of a general nature when illustrating typical design conditions, assumptions, and procedures. The actual design of foundation walls, preparation of working drawings, and similar services are best accomplished by a qualified architect or engineering familiar with local conditions and code requirements. Care has been taken to ensure that the information included in this manual is as accurate as possible. However, NCMA does not assume responsibility for errors or omissions resulting from the use of this manual or in preparation of plans or specifications.