CBC · California Building Code

Grouting procedures, grout space dimensions and maximum pour heights

The CBC requires grout spaces to meet minimum clear widths and cell dimensions (see Table 7), limits lift and pour heights (typical lift 4 ft; 10‑in hollow units up to 5 ft‑4 in), requires cleanouts and grout‑key termination when pours pause, and mandates continuous pours, consolidation, and agency approval when pouring taller sections; see § 2104.2.4 and the CBC masonry amendments for the exact numeric minima and procedural conditions .

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The CBC requires grout spaces to be sized and grouted so grout will consolidate around reinforcement and completely fill the cells, and it limits pour/lift heights unless conditions in the code or the enforcing agency allow larger pours. Specific termination (grout‑key) rules, cleanout and continuous‑pour requirements, and limits on grout lift height are prescribed in the masonry provisions, notably § 2104.2.4 and the related reinforced grouted masonry sections and tables in Chapter 21A (TMS 602 amendments) of the CBC. See § 2104.2.4 for grout‑key/termination requirements and the CBC tables and 2104A.1.3.x amendments for pour/lift and cleanout rules .

Requirements in detail

Scope, grout type and general placement rules

  • Grout types referenced are the standard definitions (coarse grout per ASTM C476) and the code differentiates requirements by grout type and the grout space provided; grout must be placed prior to initial set and consolidated to avoid voids, and pumping is the accepted method unless an alternate is approved .
  • Aluminum pumping/handling of grout is restricted unless demonstrated not to be deleterious to grout strength (§ 2104A.1.3.9(3) and related text) .

Grout space dimensions and pour heights (decision‑relevant values)

The CBC provides tabulated minimum clear grout‑space dimensions and maximum allowable grout pour heights. The table below collects the decision‑relevant values found in the CBC/TMS amendments (Table 7 and related masonry provisions). Use the clear/net grout space (subtract protrusions and bar projections) when checking these minima.

Condition / decision point Value (typical) Code Reference
Minimum clear grout‑space — (net dimension; increase for bar projections) See table entries below; net dimension = as‑built minus protrusions/hor. bar diameter projection § 2104 (Table 7)
Grout pour — coarse, small (<1 ft) See CBC table (coarse entries) Table 7 (Grout Space Requirements) § 2104A.1.3.5
Grout pour — typical design rows (fine & coarse) The published CBC/CRC tables show choice rows by grout type and maximum pour height with corresponding minimum grout‑space widths and hollow‑unit cell dims; see Table 7 / R606.3.5.1 for the exact numeric combinations used in sizing and planning § 2104 (Table 7) and Table R606.3.5.1 (for comparable explicit numeric examples)
Maximum grout lift (grout placed in a single lift) — usual limit 4 ft (1219 mm) maximum lift height unless the code exception applies; larger maximum lifts for specified hollow units are provided in the CBC amendments § 2104A.1.3.6
Exception — 10‑inch (nominal) hollow unit or wider Lift height may be increased to 5 ft 4 in (1651 mm) for 10‑in nominal and larger hollow unit masonry (see the lift‑height exception) § 2104A.1.3.6 (exception)
Exception — thick hollow units (nominal 12 in or more) The CBC notes larger total pour heights may be allowed (up to 16 ft) for hollow units with nominal thickness ≥ 12 in when minimum clear grout space dims meet the criteria (see Table 7 notes) Table 7 notes and § 2104A.1.3.5 (footnotes)
Grout pours > the standard limits Grout pours in excess of 4 ft (or 5 ft 4 in for the 10‑in exception) are subject to enforcing‑agency approval and must meet continuous‑pour, lift‑limit, one‑day completion/no >1‑hour interruption, and cleanout requirements (see the CBC amendments) § 2104A.1.3.5 Items 3(a)–(c)

Note: the CBC publishes the full numeric matrix (multiple rows for fine vs coarse grout and various maximum pour heights with corresponding minimum clear widths and hollow‑cell minimum dimensions) in Table 7 (Grout Space Requirements) and in the parallel residential table; those tables are the source of the numeric decision values you must use on your project. See Table 7 and the accompanying notes in § 2104 / 2104A.1.3.x for the exact combinations to apply on a given grout type and pour height .

Pour sequencing, construction joints and cleanouts

  • Horizontal construction joints (grout key) — when grouting is stopped for more than one hour, terminate the grout a minimum of 1-1/2 in (38.1 mm) and a maximum of one‑half the masonry unit height below a mortar joint (minimum 1/2 in (12.7 mm) below the mortar joint where bond beams occur). Horizontal reinforcement in bond beams requires minimum grout cover above the steel for each pour .
  • Cleanouts — cleanouts are required in the bottom course of masonry for each grout pour when pour heights exceed the height limits given in the lift‑height rules; cleanouts must be sealed after inspection and before grouting. In hollow unit masonry cleanouts are required in every cell at the bottom of each pour (alternatives apply when inverted double open‑end bond beam units are used) .
  • Continuous pours and interruptions — when pours exceed the basic limit (e.g., >4 ft), the code requires a continuous pour in lifts not exceeding the applicable lift limit, completion of the section in one day with no interruptions greater than one hour, and provision of bottom cleanouts for each pour; these items are subject to enforcement‑agency approval for the larger pours .

Consolidation and quality

  • Grout shall be consolidated by puddling or mechanical vibration during placing and reconsolidated after excess moisture is absorbed but before the grout loses plasticity; grout shall be placed before initial set and not more than 1-1/2 hours after water has been added (these placement and consolidation requirements are stated in the masonry grouting provisions) .
  • The code requires provisions to ensure grout spaces are clean (no mortar droppings or foreign matter) prior to grouting; cleanouts are part of this requirement .

Exceptions & special cases

  • 10‑inch nominal (and larger) hollow‑unit masonry: lift height increase to 5 ft 4 in (1651 mm) permitted per the CBC exception; pours beyond that threshold still require enforcement‑agency approval and the continuous‑pour/cleanout/one‑day rules .
  • Hollow units nominally 12 in or thicker: the CBC notes the maximum pour height can be increased (up to 16 ft) when minimum clear grout space dimensions are 3 in (see Table 7 notes) — such large pours will typically require explicit approval and careful quality assurance/special inspection arrangements .
  • When grouting multi‑wythe / composite masonry, the multi‑wythe provisions (wall ties, collar joints, grout barriers) and the requirement that the grout section between vertical grout barriers be completed in one day without >1 hr interruptions apply; grout barriers are limited in spacing (see the residential parallel rules and the CBC amendments) .

If a numeric value or an unusual combination you need is not explicitly legible in the excerpts you provided, consult the full official Table 7 (Grout Space Requirements) in the CBC TMS 602 amendment text at § 2104A.1.3.5 and the associated notes for the exact row that matches your grout type and intended pour height — those are the controlling numeric sources in the CBC .

Common mistakes

  • Treating nominal unit thickness as "clear" grout space — the code requires checking the clear (net) grout space after subtracting masonry protrusions and the horizontal projection of reinforcing bars; failing to use net dimensions can under‑size the groutable opening and violate the minima in Table 7 § 2104A.1.3 notes .
  • Failing to provide cleanouts when required (pours above the table limits or when the building official requires them) or not sealing cleanouts after inspection — a frequent inspection failure point .
  • Stopping a pour without forming the grout key per § 2104.2.4 (terminate grout the required depth below the mortar joint) — this creates poor bond at horizontal joints and is specifically addressed in § 2104.2.4 .
  • Expecting to exceed lift heights without enforcement agency approval and without meeting continuous‑pour/one‑day/cleanout conditions — the CBC explicitly conditions larger pours on approval and procedural safeguards .
  • Using aluminum pumping equipment without demonstrating no deleterious effect — the CBC requires demonstration before allowing aluminum equipment for grout handling .

Worked example — concrete scenario applying the rule with numbers

Scenario: You're building a hollow‑unit concrete masonry wall using coarse (ASTM C476) grout in 10‑inch nominal units. You need to place a 10‑ft tall section of grouted cells.

Code application:

  • Maximum standard lift: CBC lift limit is 4 ft (1219 mm) (no exception) but 10‑inch nominal hollow units have an exception increasing lift height to 5 ft 4 in (1651 mm) — apply the exception since your units are 10‑in nominal .
  • Plan lifts: For a 10‑ft (120 in) tall section you could place two lifts: one 5 ft 4 in (64 in) lift and a second lift of 4 ft 8 in (56 in), but each lift must not exceed the permitted lift height (so use 64 in and 56 in or two lifts of ≤64 in each). Confirm the CBC table row for coarse grout and the minimum clear grout‑space applicable to your grout type and hollow‑unit cells; check net grout space after subtracting protrusions and bar projections to ensure it meets the minimum from Table 7 .
  • Continuous pour / timing: Because the total pour (10 ft) exceeds 4 ft, the CBC requires enforcing‑agency approval for pours in excess of 4 ft (or 5 ft 4 in for the 10‑in exception). The section must be grouted in a continuous pour in lifts not exceeding the lift heights, completed in one day with no interruptions over one hour, and cleanouts must be provided at the bottom of the pour — so schedule inspection and obtain any required approvals before pouring .
  • Grout key and termination: If grouting stops for more than an hour, form the horizontal construction joint by terminating grout a minimum of 1-1/2 in (38.1 mm) and no more than one‑half unit height below the mortar joint (or 1/2 in below the mortar joint in bond beam locations) and maintain minimum grout cover over horizontal reinforcement per § 2104.2.4 .
  • Cleanouts and consolidation: Provide cleanouts in bottom course of each pour, clean loose material prior to pour, and consolidate grout by mechanical vibration/puddling; do not pump grout with aluminum equipment unless you have the required demonstration .

Related provisions

  • § 2104A.1.3.5 — Grout pour height and Table 7 (Grout Space Requirements) (TMS 602 amendments)
  • § 2104A.1.3.6 — Grout lift height (4 ft limit; exception to 5 ft 4 in for 10‑in hollow units)
  • § 2104.2.4 — TMS 602, Article 3.5 F.1 Grout key (horizontal construction joint termination depths)
  • § 2104A.1.3.9 (3.5 I) — Additional grout placement requirements (placement before initial set, avoid voids, aluminum equipment restriction)
  • § 2104A.1.3.1–.10 — Reinforced grouted masonry and related cleanout, bond beam, and multi‑wythe provisions (see the multi‑wythe grout barrier and completion rules)
  • Chapter 17 special inspection / quality assurance provisions (when special inspection is required for larger pours or required by design/agency)

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CBC § 76.2 High relevance — show source text

    (76.2 mm x 102 mm)._|1. Coarse grout is defined in ASTM C476.
    2. For grouting between masonry wythes.
    3. Minimum clear width of grout space and minimum clear grout space dimension are the net dimension of the space determined by subtracting masonry protrusions and the
    diameters of horizontal reinforcement from the as-built cross section of the grout space.
    4. Maximum pour height can be increased to 5.33 feet for 10-inch nominal or wider hollow unit masonry.
    5. Maximum pour height can be increased to 16 feet for hollow unit masonry walls with a nominal thickness of 12 inches or more and minimum clear grout space dimensions of 3 in.
    x 4 in. (76.2 mm x 102 mm).|1. Coarse grout is defined in ASTM C476.
    2. For grouting between masonry wythes.
    3. Minimum clear width of grout space and minimum clear grout space dimension are the net dimension of the space determined by subtracting masonry protrusions and the
    diameters of horizontal reinforcement from the as-built cross section of the grout space.
    4. Maximum pour height can be increased to 5.33 feet for 10-inch nominal or wider hollow unit masonry.
    5. Maximum pour height can be increased to 16 feet for hollow unit masonry walls with a nominal thickness of 12 inches or more and minimum clear grout space dimensions of 3 in.
    x 4 in. (76.2 mm x 102 mm).|

    2104A.1.3.6 [DSA-SS] TMS 602, Article 3.5 D Grout lift height. Modify TMS 602, Article 3.5 D as follows: 3. Grout lift height shall not exceed 4 feet (1219 mm). Exception: The 4 feet (1219 mm) maximum lift height may be increased to 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 m) for 10-inch (254 mm) nominal and larger hollow unit masonry.

    2104A.1.3.7 Reserved.

    2104A.1.3.8 TMS 602, Article 3.5 F.1 Grout key. Replace TMS 602, Article 3.5 F.1 as follows: 1. Between grout pours or where grouting has been stopped more than an hour, a horizontal construction joint shall be formed by terminating grout a minimum of 1 [1] / 2 inches (38.1 mm) and a maximum of one-half the masonry unit height below a mortar joint, except at the top of the wall. Where bond beams occur, the grout pour shall be terminated a mini- mum of [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) below the mortar joint. Horizontal reinforcement shall be placed in bond beam units with a minimum grout cover of 1 inch (25.4 mm) above reinforcing steel for each grout pour.

    2104A.1.3.9 TMS 602, Article 3.5 Grout placement. Add the following to TMS 602, Article 3.5:

  • CBC § 3.5 High relevance — show source text

    Grout pours not terminated at the top of constructed masonry shall comply with TMS 602, Articles 3.5 C.3.a through 3.5 C.3.c. 2. The top of the grout pour shall be in the top course of the constructed masonry. Grout pours not terminated within the top course of the constructed masonry shall comply with TMS 602, Articles 3.5 C.3.a through 3.5 C.3.c. 3. Grout pours in excess of 4 feet (1219 mm) or 5 feet 4 inches (1651 mm) for 10-inch (254 mm) nominal or wider for hollow unit masonry shall be subject to approval of the enforcement agency and the following: a. Grouting shall be done in a continuous pour in lifts not exceeding the requirements of TMS 602, Article 3.5 D. b. The grouting of any section of wall shall be completed in one day with no interruptions greater than one hour. c. Cleanout openings shall be provided at the bottom of each pour of grout.

    TABLE 7—GROUT SPACE REQUIREMENTS Col2 Col3 Col4
    GROUT TYPE1 MAXIMUM GROUT POUR
    HEIGHT, FT (M)    		 MINIMUM CLEAR WIDTH OF
    GROUT SPACE,2,3 IN. (MM)    		 MINIMUM CLEAR GROUT SPACE DIMENSIONS
    **FOR GROUTING CELLS OF HOLLOW UNITS,3 **
    IN. × IN. (MM × MM)
    Coarse 1 (0.3) 21/2 (63.5) 2 × 3(50.8× 76.2)
    Coarse 44 (1.22) 21/2 (63.5) 21/2 × 3 (63.5 × 76.2)
    Coarse 12.675 (3.86) 31/2 (88.9) 3 × 35 (76.2 × 76.2)
    1. Coarse grout is defined in ASTM C476.
    2. For grouting between masonry wythes.
    3. Minimum clear width of grout space and minimum clear grout space dimension are the net dimension of the space determined by subtracting masonry protrusions and the
    diameters of horizontal reinforcement from the as-built cross section of the grout space.
    4. Maximum pour height can be increased to 5.33 feet for 10-inch nominal or wider hollow unit masonry.
    5. Maximum pour height can be increased to 16 feet for hollow unit masonry walls with a nominal thickness of 12 inches or more and minimum clear grout space dimensions of 3 in.
    x 4 in. (76.2 mm x 102 mm).    		 1. Coarse grout is defined in ASTM C476.
    2. For grouting between masonry wythes.
    3. Minimum clear width of grout space and minimum clear grout space dimension are the net dimension of the space determined by subtracting masonry protrusions and the
    diameters of horizontal reinforcement from the as-built cross section of the grout space.
    4. Maximum pour height can be increased to 5.33 feet for 10-inch nominal or wider hollow unit masonry.
    _5.
  • CBC § 5.33 High relevance — show source text

    Coarse grout is defined in ASTM C476.
    2. For grouting between masonry wythes.
    3. Minimum clear width of grout space and minimum clear grout space dimension are the net dimension of the space determined by subtracting masonry protrusions and the
    diameters of horizontal reinforcement from the as-built cross section of the grout space.
    4. Maximum pour height can be increased to 5.33 feet for 10-inch nominal or wider hollow unit masonry.
    5. Maximum pour height can be increased to 16 feet for hollow unit masonry walls with a nominal thickness of 12 inches or more and minimum clear grout space dimensions of 3 in.
    x 4 in. (76.2 mm x 102 mm).|1. Coarse grout is defined in ASTM C476.
    2. For grouting between masonry wythes.
    3. Minimum clear width of grout space and minimum clear grout space dimension are the net dimension of the space determined by subtracting masonry protrusions and the
    diameters of horizontal reinforcement from the as-built cross section of the grout space.
    4. Maximum pour height can be increased to 5.33 feet for 10-inch nominal or wider hollow unit masonry.
    5. Maximum pour height can be increased to 16 feet for hollow unit masonry walls with a nominal thickness of 12 inches or more and minimum clear grout space dimensions of 3 in.
    x 4 in. (76.2 mm x 102 mm).|1. Coarse grout is defined in ASTM C476.
    2. For grouting between masonry wythes.
    3. Minimum clear width of grout space and minimum clear grout space dimension are the net dimension of the space determined by subtracting masonry protrusions and the
    diameters of horizontal reinforcement from the as-built cross section of the grout space.
    4. Maximum pour height can be increased to 5.33 feet for 10-inch nominal or wider hollow unit masonry.
    5. Maximum pour height can be increased to 16 feet for hollow unit masonry walls with a nominal thickness of 12 inches or more and minimum clear grout space dimensions of 3 in.
    x 4 in. (76.2 mm x 102 mm).|1. Coarse grout is defined in ASTM C476.
    2. For grouting between masonry wythes.
    3. Minimum clear width of grout space and minimum clear grout space dimension are the net dimension of the space determined by subtracting masonry protrusions and the
    diameters of horizontal reinforcement from the as-built cross section of the grout space.
    4. Maximum pour height can be increased to 5.33 feet for 10-inch nominal or wider hollow unit masonry.
    5. Maximum pour height can be increased to 16 feet for hollow unit masonry walls with a nominal thickness of 12 inches or more and minimum clear grout space dimensions of 3 in.
    x 4 in. (76.2 mm x 102 mm).|

  • CBC § 3.4 High relevance — show source text

    R606.3.4 Protection for reinforcement. Bars shall be completely embedded in mortar or grout. Joint reinforcement embedded in horizontal mortar joints shall not have less than [5] / 8 -inch (15.9 mm) mortar coverage from the exposed face. Other reinforcement shall have a minimum coverage of one bar diameter over all bars, but not less than [3] / 4 inch (19 mm), except where exposed to weather or soil, in which case the minimum coverage shall be 2 inches (51 mm).

    R606.3.4.1 Corrosion protection. Minimum corrosion protection of joint reinforcement, anchor ties and wire fabric for use in masonry wall construction shall conform to Table R606.3.4.1.

    TABLE R606.3.4.1—MINIMUM CORROSION PROTECTION Col2
    ** MASONRY METAL ACCESSORY** ** STANDARD**
    Joint reinforcement, interior walls ASTM A641, Class 1
    Wire ties or anchors in exterior walls completely embedded in mortar or grout ASTM A641, Class 3
    Wire ties or anchors in exterior walls not completely embedded in mortar or grout ASTM A153, Class B-2
    Joint reinforcement in exterior walls or interior walls exposed to moist environment ASTM A153, Class B-2
    Sheet metal ties or anchors exposed to weather ASTM A153, Class B-2
    Sheet metal ties or anchors completely embedded in mortar or grout ASTM A653, Coating Designation G60
    Stainless steel hardware for any exposure ASTM A167, Type 304

    R606.3.5 Grouting requirements.

    R606.3.5.1 Grout placement. Grout shall be a plastic mix suitable for pumping without segregation of the constituents and shall be mixed thoroughly. Grout shall be placed by pumping or by an approved alternate method and shall be placed before any initial set occurs and not more than 1 [1] / 2 hours after water has been added. Grout shall be consolidated by puddling or mechanical vibrating during placing and reconsolidated after excess moisture has been absorbed but before plasticity is lost. Grout shall not be pumped through aluminum pipes.

    Maximum pour heights and the minimum dimensions of spaces provided for grout placement shall conform to Table R606.3.5.1. Grout shall be poured in lifts with a maximum height of 8 feet (2438 mm). Where a total grout pour exceeds 8 feet (2438 mm) in height, the grout shall be placed in lifts not exceeding 64 inches (1626 mm) and special inspection during grouting shall be required. If the work is stopped for 1 hour or longer, the horizontal construction joints shall be formed by stopping all tiers at the same elevation and with the grout 1 inch (25 mm) below the top.

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    WALL CONSTRUCTION

  • CBC § 3.5.2 High relevance — show source text

    For grouting between masonry wythes.
    b. Grout space dimension is the clear dimension between any masonry protrusion and shall be increased by the horizontal projection of the diameters of the horizontal bars
    within the cross section of the grout space.
    c. Area of vertical reinforcement shall not exceed 6 percent of the area of the grout space.|

    R606.3.5.2 Cleanouts. Provisions shall be made for cleaning the space to be grouted. Mortar that projects more than [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) into the grout space and any other foreign matter shall be removed from the grout space prior to inspection and grouting. Where required by the building official, cleanouts shall be provided in the bottom course of masonry for each grout pour where the grout pour height exceeds 64 inches (1626 mm). In solid grouted masonry, cleanouts shall be spaced horizontally not more than 32 inches (813 mm) on center. The cleanouts shall be sealed before grouting and after inspection.

    R606.3.5.3 Construction. Requirements for grouted masonry construction shall be as follows:

    1. Masonry shall be built to preserve the unobstructed vertical continuity of the cells or spaces to be filled. In partially grouted construction, cross webs forming cells to be filled shall be full-bedded in mortar to prevent leakage of grout. Head and end joints shall be solidly filled with mortar for a distance in from the face of the wall or unit not less than the thickness of the longitudinal face shells.

    2. Vertical reinforcement shall be held in position at top and bottom and at intervals not exceeding 200 diameters of the reinforcement.

    3. Cells containing reinforcement shall be filled solidly with grout.

    4. The thickness of grout or mortar between masonry units and reinforcement shall be not less than [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm), except that [1] / 4 -inch (6.4 mm) bars shall be permitted to be laid in horizontal mortar joints not less than [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) thick, and steel wire reinforcement shall be permitted to be laid in horizontal mortar joints not less than twice the thickness of the wire diameter.

    R606.3.6 Grouted multiple-wythe masonry. Grouted multiple-wythe masonry shall conform to all the requirements specified in Section R606.3.5 and the requirements of this section.

    R606.3.6.1 Bonding of backup wythe. Where all interior vertical spaces are filled with grout in multiple-wythe construction, masonry headers shall not be permitted. Metal wall ties shall be used in accordance with Section R606.13.2 to prevent spreading of the wythes and to maintain the vertical alignment of the wall. Wall ties shall be installed in accordance with Section R606.13.2 where the backup wythe in multiple-wythe construction is fully grouted.

    R606.3.6.2 Grout barriers. Vertical grout barriers or dams shall be built of solid masonry across the grout space the entire height of the wall to control the flow of the grout horizontally. Grout barriers shall be not more than 25 feet (7620 mm) apart. The grouting of any section of a wall between control barriers shall be completed in one day without interruptions greater than 1 hour.

    R606.3.7 Masonry bonding pattern. Masonry laid in running and stack bond shall conform to Sections R606.3.7.1 and R606.3.7.2.

  • CBC § 0.019 High relevance — show source text

    35|0.019|–|–|–|–| |0.71|0.061|–|–|–|–| |1.06|0.120|–|–|–|–| |1.41|0.194|–|–|–|–| |1.77|0.284|–|–|–|–| |2.12|0.387|–|–|–|–| |2.47|0.504 –|–|–|–|| |2.82|0.634|–|–|–|–| |3.18|0.777|–|–|–|–| |3.53|0.932|0.238|–|–|–| |4.24|1.277|0.325|–|–|–| |4.94|1.669|0.424|–|–|–| |5.65|2.106|0.534|–|–|–| |6.36|2.586|0.655|–|–|–| |7.06|3.110|0.787|0.272|–|–| |7.77|3.674|0.929|0.321|–|–| |8.47|4.280|1.081|0.373|–|–| |9.18|4.927|1.243|0.429|–|–| |9.89|–|1.416|0.488|–|–| |10.59|–|1.597|0.551|0.242|–| |11.30|–|1.789|0.616|0.270|–| |12.01|–|1.990|0.685|0.300|–| |12.71|–|2.200|0.757|0.332|–| |13.42|–|2.419|0.832|0.365|–| |14.12|–|2.648|0.911|0.399|–| |14.83|–|2.886|0.992|0.435|–| |15.54|–|3.132|1.077|0.471|–| |16.24
    |–
    |3.388
    |1.164
    |0.510
    |–
    | |16.95|–|3.652|1.254|0.549|–| |17.66|–|3.925|1.348|0.590|–| |18.36|–|4.207|1.444|0.632|0.167| |19.07|–|4.498|1.543|0.675|0.179| |19.77|–|4.797|1.646|0.720|0.190| |20.48|–|–|1.751|0.766|0.202| |21.19|–|–|1.859|0.813|0.214| |24.72|–|–|2.441|1.066|0.281| |28.25|–|–|3.092|1.350|0.356| |31.78|–|–|3.811|1.662|0.438| |35.31|–|–|4.596|2.004|0.527| |38.84|–|–|–|2.373|0.

  • CBC § 3.5 High relevance — show source text

    R606.3.5 Grouting requirements.

    R606.3.5.1 Grout placement. Grout shall be a plastic mix suitable for pumping without segregation of the constituents and shall be mixed thoroughly. Grout shall be placed by pumping or by an approved alternate method and shall be placed before any initial set occurs and not more than 1 [1] / 2 hours after water has been added. Grout shall be consolidated by puddling or mechanical vibrating during placing and reconsolidated after excess moisture has been absorbed but before plasticity is lost. Grout shall not be pumped through aluminum pipes.

    Maximum pour heights and the minimum dimensions of spaces provided for grout placement shall conform to Table R606.3.5.1. Grout shall be poured in lifts with a maximum height of 8 feet (2438 mm). Where a total grout pour exceeds 8 feet (2438 mm) in height, the grout shall be placed in lifts not exceeding 64 inches (1626 mm) and special inspection during grouting shall be required. If the work is stopped for 1 hour or longer, the horizontal construction joints shall be formed by stopping all tiers at the same elevation and with the grout 1 inch (25 mm) below the top.

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    TABLE R606.3.5.1—GROUT SPACE DIMENSIONS AND POUR HEIGHTS Col2 Col3 Col4
    ** GROUT TYPE** ** GROUT POUR**
    MAXIMUM HEIGHT
    (feet)    		 ** MINIMUM WIDTH**
    OF GROUT SPACESa, b
    (inches)    		 ** MINIMUM GROUTb, c SPACE DIMENSIONS**
    FOR GROUTING CELLS OF HOLLOW UNITS
    (inches × inches)
    Fine 1 0.75 1.5 × 2
    Fine 5 2 2 × 3
    Fine 12 2.5 2.5 × 3
    Fine 24 3 3 × 3
    Coarse 1 1.5 1.5 × 3
    Coarse 5 2 2.5 × 3
    Coarse 12 2.5 3 × 3
    Coarse 24 3 3 × 4
    For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. For grouting between masonry wythes.
    b. Grout space dimension is the clear dimension between any masonry protrusion and shall be increased by the horizontal projection of the diameters of the horizontal bars
    within the cross section of the grout space.
    c. Area of vertical reinforcement shall not exceed 6 percent of the area of the grout space.    		 For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. For grouting between masonry wythes.
    b. Grout space dimension is the clear dimension between any masonry protrusion and shall be increased by the horizontal projection of the diameters of the horizontal bars
    within the cross section of the grout space.
    c.
  • CBC § 21A-5 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 21A-5

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    MASONRY

    the formed surface of grout of at least [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm) when using fine grout and at least [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) when using coarse grout. Bolts shall be solidly embedded in grout. 5. Bent bar anchor bolts shall not be allowed. The maximum size anchor shall be [1] / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) diameter for 6-inch (152 mm) nominal masonry, [3] / 4 -inch (19.1 mm) diameter for 8-inch (203 mm) nominal masonry, [7] / 8 -inch (22 mm) diameter for 10- inch (254 mm) nominal masonry, and 1-inch (25.4 mm) diameter for 12-inch (305 mm) nominal masonry. 6. Bolts shall be accurately set with templates or by approved equivalent means and held in place to prevent dislocation during grouting.

    2104A.1.3.5 [DSA-SS] TMS 602, Article 3.5 C Grout pour height. Replace TMS 602, Article 3.5 C and Table 7 as follows: 1. Do not exceed the grout pour height given in Table 7. Grout pours not terminated at the top of constructed masonry shall comply with TMS 602, Articles 3.5 C.3.a through 3.5 C.3.c. 2. The top of the grout pour shall be in the top course of the constructed masonry. Grout pours not terminated within the top course of the constructed masonry shall comply with TMS 602, Articles 3.5 C.3.a through 3.5 C.3.c. 3. Grout pours in excess of 4 feet (1219 mm) or 5 feet 4 inches (1651 mm) for 10-inch (254 mm) nominal or wider for hollow unit masonry shall be subject to approval of the enforcement agency and the following: a. Grouting shall be done in a continuous pour in lifts not exceeding the requirements of TMS 602, Article 3.5 D. b. The grouting of any section of wall shall be completed in one day with no interruptions greater than one hour. c. Cleanout openings shall be provided at the bottom of each pour of grout.

    TABLE 7—GROUT SPACE REQUIREMENTS Col2 Col3 Col4
    GROUT TYPE1 MAXIMUM GROUT POUR
    HEIGHT, FT (M)    		 MINIMUM CLEAR WIDTH OF
    GROUT SPACE,2,3 IN. (MM)    		 MINIMUM CLEAR GROUT SPACE DIMENSIONS
    **FOR GROUTING CELLS OF HOLLOW UNITS,3 **
    IN. × **IN.
  • CBC § 2103A.6 High relevance — show source text

    2103A.6 Specified compressive strength of masonry and grout . Replace TMS 402 Table 4.3.1 by the following:

    TABLE 4.3.1—SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH REQUIREMENTS Col2 Col3
    TYPE OF MASONRY SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF MASONRY SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF GROUT
    Concrete masonry 2,000 psi (13.79 MPa) ≤ f'm ≤ 3,000 psi (20.68 MPa) f'g ≥ f'm ≤ 5,000 psi (34.47 MPa)
    Clay masonry 1,500 psi (10.34 MPa) ≤ f'm ≤ 4,500 psi (31.02 MPa) f'g≤ 6,000 (41.37 MPa)

    SECTION 2104 A —CONSTRUCTION

    2104 A .1 Masonry construction. Masonry construction shall comply with the requirements of Sections 2104 A .1.1 through 2104 A .1.3 and with the requirements of either TMS 602 or TMS 604.

    2104 A .1.1 Support on wood. Masonry shall not be supported on wood girders or other forms of wood construction except as permitted in Section 2304 A .13.

    2104 A .1.2 Molded cornices. Unless structural support and anchorage are provided to resist the overturning moment, the center of gravity of projecting masonry or molded cornices shall lie within the middle one-third of the supporting wall. Terra cotta and metal cornices shall be provided with a structural frame of approved noncombustible material anchored in an approved manner.

    2104A.1.3 Reinforced grouted masonry.

    2104A.1.3.1 [DSA-SS] TMS 602, Article 3.2 F Cleanouts. Replace TMS 602, Article 3.2 F with the following:

    3.2 F. Cleanouts - Provide cleanouts in the bottom course of masonry for each grout pour when the grout pour height exceeds the height limits given in Section 2104A.1.3.5 Item 3. 1. Cleanout openings in hollow unit masonry shall be provided in every cell at the bottom of each pour of grout. Alterna- tively, if the course at the bottom of the pour is constructed entirely of inverted double open-end bond beam units, cleanout openings need only be provided for access to every reinforced cell at the bottom of each pour of grout. 2. Cleanouts in multi-wythe masonry shall be provided for each pour by leaving out every other unit in the bottom wythe of the section being poured or by cleanout openings in the foundation. 3. The foundation or other horizontal construction joints at the cleanouts shall be cleaned of all loose material and mortar droppings before each pour. The cleanouts shall be sealed after inspection and before grouting.

  • CBC § 20.2.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    20.2.2_|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.20.2.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.20.2.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.20.2.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.20.3.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.20.4.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.20.4.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.20.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.20.6.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.20.6.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |910.2.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |910.3.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |911.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |911.1.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |911.1.8|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |912.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |912.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |913.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |913.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |915.1|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |915.2|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |915.2.1|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |915.2.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |915.4|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |915.4.1,
    Exceptions 2 and 3|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |915.4.2|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |915.4.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |915.4.4|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |915.5.2|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |915.5.3|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |915.6|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |915.6.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |915.7|||X|||X|||||||||||||||||||

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 9-5

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    9-6 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

    User notes:

  • CBC § 12.7 Medium relevance — show source text

    Bolts shall be solidly embedded in grout._ 5. Bent bar anchor bolts shall not be allowed. The maximum size anchor shall be [1] / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) diameter for 6-inch (152 mm) nominal masonry, [3] / 4 -inch (19.1 mm) diameter for 8-inch (203 mm) nominal masonry, [7] / 8 -inch (22.2 mm) diameter for 10-inch (254 mm) nominal masonry, and 1-inch (25.4 mm) diameter for 12-inch (305 mm) nominal masonry. 6. Bolts shall be accurately set with templates or by approved equivalent means and held in place to prevent dislocation during grouting.

    2104.2.4 TMS 602, Article 3.5 F.1 Grout key. Replace TMS 602, Article 3.5 F.1 as follows: 1. Between grout pours or where grouting has been stopped more than an hour, a horizontal construction joint shall be formed by terminating grout a minimum of 1 [1] / 2 inches (38.1 mm) and a maximum of one-half the masonry unit height below a mortar joint, except at the top of the wall. Where bond beams occur, the grout pour shall be terminated a minimum of [1] / 2

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 21-5

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    MASONRY

    inch (12.7 mm) below the mortar joint. Horizontal reinforcement shall be placed in bond beam units with a minimum grout cover of 1 inch (25.4 mm) above reinforcing steel for each grout pour.

    2104.3 Aluminum equipment. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Grout shall not be handled nor pumped utilizing aluminum equipment unless it can be demonstrated with the materials and equipment to be used that there will be no deleterious effect on the strength of the grout.

    SECTION 2105—QUALITY ASSURANCE

    2105.1 General. A quality assurance program shall be used to ensure that the constructed masonry is in compliance with the approved construction documents.

    The quality assurance program shall comply with the inspection and testing requirements of Chapter 17 and TMS 602. 2105.2 Compressive strength , f ′ m . [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Testing of masonry shall be provided in accordance with TMS 602, Article 1.4 B.

    Exception: Where values of f ′ m greater than 2,000 psi (13.79 MPa) are used in the design of reinforced grouted multi-wythe masonry and reinforced hollow unit masonry, they shall be based on prism test results in accordance with TMS 602, Article 1.4 B.3 submitted by the architect or engineer to the enforcement agency which demonstrate the ability of the proposed construction to meet prescribed performance criteria for strength exceed 3,000 psi (20.7 MPa).

Frequently asked questions

What is the “clear” grout space the code uses for minimums?

Clear (net) grout space is the as‑built cross‑sectional opening available for grout after subtracting masonry protrusions and adding the horizontal projection of bar diameters; use the net dimension when comparing to the table minima (§ 2104 Table 7 notes) .

Can I stop a pour and resume the next day?

If grouting is stopped more than one hour you must form a horizontal construction joint (grout key) by terminating grout the code‑required depth below the mortar joint (minimum 1‑1/2 in, maximum one‑half unit height; special rule for bond beams) — see § 2104.2.4 .

Do I always need cleanouts at the bottom of a pour?

Cleanouts are required at the bottom course for each grout pour when pour heights exceed the lift/height limits specified in the code; hollow unit masonry generally requires cleanouts in every cell at the bottom of each pour (alternatives exist for certain unit types) .

How high can I pour in one continuous operation?

Lift height is limited to 4 ft (1219 mm) generally; 10‑in nominal hollow units may be increased to 5 ft 4 in (1651 mm) under the CBC exception. Larger total pour heights above these thresholds require enforcing‑agency approval and must meet the continuous‑pour, one‑day completion and cleanout conditions in the code .

Is pumping grout with aluminum equipment allowed?

Not unless you demonstrate with the specific materials and equipment that there will be no deleterious effect on grout strength; the CBC specifically requires that demonstration before aluminum equipment is used for grout handling/pumping .

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Related in the CBC

Bond beams, anchor bolts, cleanouts and aluminum equipment restrictions

Quality assurance: compressive strength verification, mortar/grout sampling and core testing

Construction details and quality assurance

California Building Code