What is the minimum width of a load bearing CMU wall with filled cells?

What is the minimum width of a load bearing CMU wall with filled cells?

• A. 2 inches
• B. 8 inches
• C. 6 inches
• D. 2 1/2 inches

Answer: (B)

Eight inches is the minimum because a load-bearing CMU wall must have enough cross‑section to carry vertical loads and transfer them effectively through the wall, even when the hollow cores are filled with grout for added strength. Filling the cores increases capacity, but it doesn’t reduce the required wall thickness; a thinner wall would not provide adequate strength or stiffness for typical structural demands. Thinner options are used only for non‑load‑bearing partitions or require special design provisions, while the eight‑inch thickness is the standard minimum for load‑bearing CMU walls.

Eight inches is the minimum because a load-bearing CMU wall must have enough cross‑section to carry vertical loads and transfer them effectively through the wall, even when the hollow cores are filled with grout for added strength. Filling the cores increases capacity, but it doesn’t reduce the required wall thickness; a thinner wall would not provide adequate strength or stiffness for typical structural demands. Thinner options are used only for non‑load‑bearing partitions or require special design provisions, while the eight‑inch thickness is the standard minimum for load‑bearing CMU walls.