I’m looking for detailing tips and insight in concrete masonry arch construction. I have a project where the architect has shown several masonry arches. The wall construction is 8” CMU and a brick veneer. I have seen many brick arches built but I have never seen a concrete masonry wall arch built. I have some opening in the 15 feet span range.
I have NCMA TEK 14-14 which states the arch should be made of solid CMU or the CMU should be grouted solid. I see the steps to construct the arch as being:
1. Install arch form
2. Create the first row of the arch using brick, either clay or concrete. The architect will determine that.
3. Build the brick veneer arch as a typical brick arch.
4. Build the CMU backup arch using cut block. I would assume hollow block.
5. Grout the arch solid up to the crown height
6. Put in a bond beam course directly above the crown.
7. Build the wall above the arch as a typical wall.
I’m wondering if I should put some steel bars in that follow the arch curve, directly above the first row of bricks. I know this area is in compression so I don’t see much use of the steel. I’m also wondering if I should have some vertical steel in the arched section of wall, between the bond beam and the first row, above the spring line.
I open to suggestions for detailing CMU arches.
Thanks.
Rich