Scored CMUs
Scored concrete masonry units reduce the perceived scale of the masonry. The scores are essentially false joints in the CMU. These joints may be pointed with mortar or they may be left as rectangular scores to simulate raked joints.

Common score placement on the face of concrete masonry units is shown in the drawings. Ground face (GRF), split face (SPF), and smooth face (SMF) and regular (REG) units may be scored. Ground face and split face units are illustrated in their respective sections.

Scores are commonly 3/8 inch deep and 3/8 inch wide. The typical 3/8 inch score is generally ignored in the structural design of concrete masonry construction.

Scored concrete masonry units in this section can also be manufactured with additives and pigments, producing an integrally colored, decorative unit. Colors may be selected from Betco Supreme's standard sample kits. In order to maintain the highest level of quality and color consistency, all decorative scored units are manufactured to order.

The coding system for scored concrete masonry units has two additional digits at the beginning of the descriptor. These first two digits indicate the number of vertical scores on the face of the units. For example, 01GRF080816 describes an 8" x 8" x 16" vertically scored ground face unit with one vertical score.

All units with vertical scores may be placed in stack bond. Stack bond is when units are placed directly over units in the course below, providing vertical alignment of head joints. Limitations of stack bond should be considered in the structural design. The use of horizontal joint reinforcement is generally required for stack bond applications.