Block Work
CMU Block Installer in Victoria BC
Orca Masonry is a trusted CMU block installer in Victoria BC, providing structural block construction for homes and businesses. We work with reinforced concrete masonry unit (CMU) systems to build long-lasting, code-compliant walls that meet both residential and commercial demands.
We handle every aspect of the job — from layout and rebar to finishing and inspection — with care and efficiency. As a result, your project stays on schedule and on budget, without compromises on quality or safety.
What is Block Work?
Block work refers to the use of large concrete or cement blocks in structural construction. These blocks are often hollow-core, which makes them lighter, easier to install, and more insulating than traditional bricks.
This method is commonly used for structural walls, frost walls, partitions, retaining systems, and foundation construction. CMU block is widely respected for its strength, durability, and fire resistance — making it ideal for high-load, long-term applications.
Strength
Provides solid construction for any project.
Fire Resistant
Blocks withstand high temperatures and offer extra protection.
Soundproofing
Reduces noise between walls, making it ideal for homes and businesses.
Insulating
Helps maintain indoor temperatures efficiently.
Cost-Effective
Larger blocks speed up installation, reducing labor costs.
Why CMU Blocks Are a Smart Choice
In addition to strength, CMU blocks offer excellent flexibility. For example, they can be reinforced with rebar and filled with grout, increasing load-bearing capacity and stability. Furthermore, they help with temperature and sound insulation, reducing the need for extra layers or materials. For contractors and engineers alike, they’re a reliable building solution.
We are licensed, WCB-insured, and committed to quality, safety, and clear communication on every job.
Orca Masonry provides a full range of block work services across Vancouver Island. We coordinate directly with homeowners, general contractors, or project engineers depending on the scope.
Our CMU block installations include:
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Load-bearing CMU walls
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Foundation and frost walls
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Fire-rated demising walls (commercial)
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Infill and non-load-bearing partitions
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Retaining walls and landscape block systems
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Stair returns, parapets, and corner details
Each wall is installed with accuracy, proper reinforcement, and professional cleanup. In addition, we plan for long-term strength by following proper fill-and-cure times for grout and mortar.
Structural Block Walls
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Foundations – Strong, stable base for any building.
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Load-Bearing Walls – Supports upper floors and roofs.
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Partitions – Divides spaces efficiently with soundproofing benefits.
Commercial Block Work
We handle commercial block wall installations upon request. Send your bid package and project details to info@orcamasonry.com, and we’ll review and respond before the closing date.
Need a block wall, foundation, or retaining wall?
Our skilled team delivers quality masonry solutions in Victoria, BC.
Let’s Build It Right
Orca Masonry is ready to quote your block wall project, large or small. You’ll get clear pricing, solid timelines, and a crew that shows up on time. Most importantly, we take pride in getting the details right — from base prep to final inspection.
Meet Our Pod
Cory Brune
Sr Project Consultant, Owner
Cory has over 10 years’ experience in the masonry industry. A Certified Chimney Inspector and WETT Inspector, Cory has been on more roofs and in more backyards than he can count.
Cory branched out on his own to fill a need that he saw in the industry: reliable, professional people to complete small to midsize masonry and concrete projects. Orca Masonry was launched and is now a recognized brand in the south Vancouver Island marketplace.
Cory has incorporated the PPP Theory in his approach to business, where the People and Planet should come before Profit; as a result, Orca Masonry has experienced amazing growth, attracting experienced and qualified team members. Or ‘pod members’ if you will!
Sid Branch
Sr Mason, Project Manager
Originally from the UK, Sid has bricklaying and stonemasonry in his DNA. A Red Seal Journeyman, he can install, and problem solve all day long! What’s more, his son is now working with Orca Masonry as a 2nd-year apprentice. You could say we are growing our own Masons…
After working on his own for several years, Sid fully appreciates the value of a team with a diverse set of skills. He joined Orca Masonry with the vision of leveraging his strength in the field with the front end and operational support to build a successful business.
Sid is well known in the construction industry for his incomparable knowledge and skill. He has built everything from incredible outdoor living spaces to problem-solving technical issues related to the function and/or leaking chimneys, and done commercial installations. Sid has well-rounded construction skills that complement his technical knowledge of bricklaying and masonry – we look to him for guidance on our most challenging installations.
Close to Sid’s heart is work/life balance – he is an avid sailor who can be found sailing the Salish Sea with his wife and dogs in his free time.
Jesse Dares
Waterproofing Specialist, Project Manager
Having grown up in Cowichan Valley, Jesse is a fan of the rain! One might say he is the ‘rain-ing’ king of all things waterproofing. But seriously, Jesse’s technical knowledge of waterproofing and drainage solutions is unparalleled on Vancouver Island. Even better, Jesse is unafraid to go where no others have before in order to find the source of the problem.
With almost two decades of experience under his belt, Jesse joined Orca Masonry with the anticipation of participating in a fun team environment that appreciates his work ethic, drive for perfection, and giggly sense of humor.
Orca Masonry is proud to be the chosen employer for candidates seeking a forever home!
Conner Eastman
Sr Mason, Crew Chief
Conner started his career in Masonry under the tutelage of Sid Branch more than 15 years ago. Life changes, people grow on and this year, he found himself with the opportunity to work with his mentor once again. A certified WETT Inspector and skilled mason, Conner came to Orca Masonry to continue growing his skill and learning from the best in a fun team environment. A true prankster, Conner loves April Fool's Day - in fact, any day can be April Fool's Day in Conner's world...
As a new father, Conner’s greatest joy is his baby boy! His extended family is on the island, and he enjoys his work and life balance by camping, exploring the island, and golfing.
Orca Masonry is proud to be the chosen employer for candidates seeking a forever home!
Iva Lopes
Operations & Projects Manager
Iva Lopes is the Operations & Projects Manager for Orca Masonry. She oversees all aspects of management and operations in the company, including Finance, Human Resources, IT, Procurement and Project strategies.
Iva joined in February of 2021 and has dealt primarily with resource planning and management, designing internal systems and processes, and ensuring the implementation of the internal control framework aimed at the proper functioning of Orca. Her bright personality makes it easy to lead the team and navigate the sea of construction. She is passionate about marketing and communications tools as she fills her time being a social media guru!
Originally from Brazil and fully integrated into Canadian life and culture, Iva brings more than 10 years of work experience in public and private organizations such as the United Nations. She shares with Orca her personal and professional values related to continuously striving for quality, focusing on answering the customers' needs and working towards sustainability, inclusiveness, and resilience. Iva has a master’s degree in Project Management and enjoys being creative and spending time with her family and her cat when she is not hard at work supporting the Orca team.
Masonry for Vancouver Island B.C.
Your home should work in unison, each space and/or structure should transition, flow and function fluently from one space to another. From functionality to aesthetics, we consider how each application and installation will affect the other.
Visit Us
Location
1280 Glenshire Drive
Victoria BC, Canada V9C 3W7
Say "Hi!"
info@orcamasonry.com
Call Us
Phone
250·217·2020