Concrete Masonry: Solid Architectural Benefits

Since it was first used in the 19th century, the industry has seen major changes in the size, shape, texture, appearance and use of concrete masonry. Today it is used in virtually every type of building construction, including commercial, industrial and residential buildings, paving and retaining wall landscape projects.

One of the most significant architectural benefits of designing with concrete masonry is its versatility - the finished appearance of a concrete masonry wall can be varied with the unit size and shape, colour of units and mortar, bond pattern, and surface finish of the units, without sacrificing economics. Other benefits include design flexibility, insulation and energy efficiency, and low maintenance requirements.

Another major architectural benefit of concrete masonry is the modular masonry design concept. The modular system of concrete masonry allows for efficient design co-ordination of sizes of building components, such as door and window frames. Units such as blocks and bricks are the dimensions which permit other components to fit into the space provided in a controlling reference system in a particular direction.

Modular co-ordination enables components to be built on site without modification, as well as reducing the range of sizes required - all of which results in substantial savings in building costs that can be achieved. Savings on labour and materials is also a feature of concrete masonry construction. These savings can then be utilised elsewhere in the project to enhance design aspects.

Concrete masonry is also becoming the product of choice in the residential market. When looked at from an overall perspective, it is completely cost effective. Life costing, initial cost, maintenance cost, cost of heating and cooling a house, as well as salvage value shows concrete masonry to be arguably the most effective form of house construction. Because of its trueness of shape it is easy to use and quick to build, giving increased productivity in laying and reducing costs.

The use of concrete masonry also benefits the environment and promotes sustainable building practice. Not only is concrete masonry fully recyclable, but leading manufacturers such as Cape Brick are using recycled crushed aggregate in the manufacture of their products.

This has major advantages in terms of lessening environmental impact and gives rise to a truly green building product.

For further information please contact Jean Tresfon at Cape Brick 021 511-2006.