A concrete masonry unit used for running walls is called what?

A concrete masonry unit used for running walls is called a stretcher. The term "stretcher" refers specifically to the orientation and placement of the masonry units when they are laid in a wall. Stretchers are typically laid flat and are aligned with the length of the wall, providing strength and continuity to the wall structure. This placement helps in distributing load and contributes to the aesthetic of the wall.

In contrast, a header is a masonry unit that is placed perpendicular to the wall, usually at the ends of a course, and is used primarily in arch construction or to span openings. Brick is a broader category that includes various types of units, but the specific function and orientation described align with the term "stretcher." An anchor typically refers to a fastening device for securing structures but does not pertain to running walls in masonry. The use of the correct terminology is crucial in construction for accuracy and clarity in communication among tradespeople.