This Series consists of three Standards:
(a) CSA A165.1, Concrete block masonry units;
(b) CSA A165.2, Concrete brick masonry units; and
(c) CSA A165.3, Prefaced concrete masonry units.

CSA A165.1 covers concrete block masonry units suitable for loadbearing and nonloadbearing applications. It classifies concrete block masonry units by four physical properties denoted by facets. These properties are solid content, specified compressive strength, concrete type, and maximum moisture content. The physical properties are based on performance rather than specific material combinations or manufacturing processes. To fully complete a block unit specification under this Standard, the specifier designates unit performance for each physical property using an identification code. The specified compressive strengths of units given in Table 1 of this Standard, based on the average net area of the unit, parallel those identified for the design of masonry in CSA S304, Design of Masonry Structures.

CSA A165.2 covers both hollow and solid concrete brick units. Solid units are suitable for loadbearing and nonloadbearing applications, whereas hollow units are limited to nonloadbearing applications. The Standard identifies two grades of units: Grade I, for use in masonry exposed to the weather, and Grade II, for use as backup or interior facing masonry and not for exposure to the weather. Both hollow and solid concrete brick units are classified by their physical properties and the extent of coring and frogging. Physical properties include specified compressive strength, water absorption, and moisture content.

CSA A165.3 specifies the properties of masonry units prefaced during manufacturing. The Standard provides requirements for resistance to aging, thermal shock, and freeze-thaw cycling, as well as referencing the requirements of ASTM C744, Standard Specification for Prefaced Concrete and Calcium Silicate Masonry Units. The base unit for the applied facing is governed by CSA A165.1 or CSA A165.2, as applicable.