For centuries, masons have relied on bricks and stones for constructing durable buildings that were meant to last for decades. A material like concrete masonry is low-maintenance and lasts for the long term. When concrete is torn down, it can be recycled and reused for new building projects. That means you may be able to reuse existing concrete masonry or choose sustainable products that are made from recycled concrete. Here are a few ways stone masonry promotes sustainability.
Regulates Energy Usage
Stone and brick both have a high thermal mass which can help regulate energy usage. A material’s thermal mass is its capability to absorb, retain, and radiate heat. High-density materials, like stone and brick, require more energy to change their temperatures. Meaning, these materials can absorb heat quickly but release it slowly. This allows the interior of the building to stay warmer or cooler, depending on the season, longer. This reduces the cost of your heating and cooling. It also reduces the environmental impact of your building’s HVAC system. Masonry also offers improved indoor environmental quality by eliminating plaster or paint if an architectural finish is desired. In addition, it reduces the potential for mold growth because masonry does not provide a food source for mold.
Durable and Longlasting
Since concrete masonry lasts longer and requires little maintenance, the need to manufacture new materials is reduced with every new concrete masonry building. Brick and stone materials are one of the most long lasting building materials. It is not uncommon for a brick masonry structure to last for over a century.
Minimal Construction Required
Construction requirements for concrete masonry are minimal. Large equipment and staging areas are not necessary for delivery or placement. These factors reduce the impact that concrete masonry construction has on the environment. In addition, if new materials are required, concrete masonry can often be manufactured locally, reducing transportation requirements. Concrete masonry also requires less specialized construction equipment.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a sustainable, durable, and longlasting building material for your next construction project, look no further than stone masonry. Using concrete to build your structure puts less stress on the environment and will save you money in energy costs in the long run. Contact us today for all your masonry needs!
Contact Del Prete Masonry Today!
Whether you are ready to start your next masonry project or are still hesitant and have questions, Del Prete Masonry is here to help. We have the experience and expertise to get it right the first time. Questions? Want to visit some of our residential or commercial projects? Ready to set up a consultation? Feel free to give us a call at 410-683-0650 or visit us online. We are happy to serve Baltimore City and County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. To see examples of our work and to keep up with our new and exciting projects, be sure to Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Tags: Commercial Brick Restoration, Commercial Concrete Repair, commercial masonry