Well, I really don't hate them. I've (registered Civil Engineer) designed a
lot of retaining walls and load bearing walls using CMUs (Concrete Masonry
Units). I hate how they are totally abused and misused.

The following picture is a typical support under my house. 1950s
construction. This crap is throughout the house. BTW, the previous owner,
responsible for all of this, was successful in the lumber business. You
would think that on JUST ONE support under the house he could have come up
with the money for either a 4"x4" post or maybe a 6"x6". Heck, he only
would have needed an 8 or 10 inch length!!

http://picasaweb.google.com/ivanvegv...377 458850562



This kind of crap is throughout this part (north) of Oregon. Most of these
places were improved without the benefit of permits or good advice. My
neighbors are stunned that I actually fill my concrete blocks with concrete.
Using rebar blows their minds.



I cringe when I see this. I cringe when I see somebody working under a car
supported by CMUs.



The only allowed use for loose CMUs should be low (2 rows maximum)
bookshelves in college dorms.



Sorry about the rant. BTW, I've already removed and replaced about 11
occurrences of the above.



Ivan Vegvary