Eco-Friendly? Green Building with Masonry

Sustainability and green building are the buzzwords of the day, and for good reason. They will more than likely be on everyone's mind over the next few decades as people become more conscious of their actions on this Earth - and the consequences of those actions.

It's important to consider what materials you're going to use when you build a new home or remodel your existing home. The Mason Contractors Association of America has some excellent advice when it comes to choosing brick and concrete masonry products.

Whether you're just interested in finding out how you can make a difference or you're a diehard conservationist, this is valuable information on masonry construction to keep and to pass along to friends and family if they're considering a new construction or renovation project. Both now and, in our hopefully healthy, future:

• "'The ingredients of masonry and mortar are inert, non-toxic, and promote excellent indoor air quality,' states the Portland Cement Association. Masonry's natural textures and colors also eliminate the need for painting, drywall, or other finishes that could result in undesirable chemicals in the air. The reduced potential for mold growth (masonry does not provide a food source, does not rot, and can be easily cleaned) also supports indoor air quality.
  
• Daylighting, outdoor views, and masonry's flexibility to comply with such demands also make it a natural choice for any project. Since walls are constructed on site, design considerations are easily accommodated. And, occupants reap the benefits: employees' health and productivity are enhanced by better work spaces, chemically sensitive patients are inhaling clean air, shoppers are staying longer and buying more, and children are learning and playing carefree.
  
• Local material supplies are satisfied on the LEED checklist because masonry products are commonly extracted from and manufactured within the building site region supporting the local economy, minimizing fuel requirements for handling and transport, and reducing traffic congestion and resultant emissions. Local material use also helps to keep building costs down.
  
• Masonry's thermal mass characteristics provide optimal heating and cooling efficiency. Masonry walls remain warm or cool long after the heat or air-conditioner has shut off. This attribute not only reduces heating and cooling loads but stabilizes indoor temperature shifts and exchanges typical peak heating and cooling loads to off-peak hours. Daylighting also comes into play with energy conservation as natural light can reduce the need for artificial lighting fixtures and the energy needed to run them. Masonry's color and texture options can also create reflective surfaces which lend themselves to further energy efficiency and reduced building operation costs.
  
• Masonry is renewable and reusable. Rock and sand are in no short supply and are easily accessible, thus renewable. A building's life speaks to its re-usability. The goal being to extend its usable existence. Masonry is a durable material whose life cycle exceeds that of many other building envelope products. It is resistant to fire, water, and insects. As a result, it presents the opportunity to refurbish an existing building's structure and shell as opposed to tearing down and starting anew. And, once again, cost savings are realized due to masonry's resiliency and low maintenance nature."

Need to Find a Brick Mason?
If you're looking to find a masonry company or local brick contractor to help with your remodeling, home addition, siding, paving, or home building project - submit it to ConstructionDeal.com.

It's free, for one, and it's fast. You'll be able to receive several bids from brick contractors in your area who will help get the job done and help you save and protect the environment!