The Advantages of Masonry

It's not new, its history! 


Masonry is the art of shaping and arraigning units to form walls and other elements. Masonry can be clay, stone, concrete block or manufactured stone. It's a time-tested material - the Great Wall of China, the Roman Coliseum and nearly every structure over 500 years old! 

Advantages for your building: 

• Masonry provides several functions simultaneously - there are many features in one product 
  
• Construction schedule - one trade (mason) on site can start as soon at the foundations are poured 
  
• Structural wall and the finished surface in one 
  
• Multiple colors, patterns and shapes available for a unique design 
  
• Independent movement of masonry and framing 
  
• Thermal, sound and fire rating capabilities 
  
• Compressive strength and with reinforcing, tensile strength to get the building height you want 
  
• Low long term maintenance 
  
• Lower cost per square foot than steel beams and columns 
  
• Lasting presence  
  
• "Green" - its long, long life cycle makes it a very "green" system and at the same time its durability saves money over the decades 
  

Good to know: 

• Attention to detail is crucial to avoid cracks  
  
• It's weather sensitive so start in the spring  
  
• Construction can be slower because the walls go up before the roof goes on 
  

Links: 
Masonry Institute of America 
Masonry Systems.org 

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