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Archive for May, 2016

The Benefits of Concrete Blocks

Wednesday, May 25th, 2016

Concrete blocks offer numerous benefits across a number of different construction, landscaping and hardscaping applications. It is a budget friendly and earth friendly material that can suit a number of different tastes and designs. To learn more about the many benefits of concrete blocks, read on.

Concrete Blocks Cut Construction Costs

Concrete blocks are a budget friendly and earth friendly material that can be used for any number of designs and landscaping.

Concrete blocks are a budget friendly and earth friendly material that can be used for any number of designs and landscaping.

Concrete blocks are a budget-friendly building material and are far cheaper than a number of other common building materials. In order to produce brick hectors of land, a large amount of wood and coal are utilized. Concrete blocks are significantly cheaper as they require fewer resources to manufacture. This translates into lower costs overall. In fact, each block of concrete saves approximately 25% when compared to brick.

Using Concrete Blocks Leads To A Reduction In Maintenance Costs

In the long run, concrete buildings, structures, and pavements stand the test of time while requiring minimal maintenance compared to other materials, giving them a definite edge. Moisture, which warps wood and causes metal to rust and degrade, has no such effect on concrete blocks. While wood is vulnerable to moisture, sunlight, mold, and insect infestation, concrete blocks are not and will not require costly repair under these conditions. This is why structures built thousands of years ago using concrete still stand today.

Concrete Blocks Are Energy Efficient

It turns out that 80% or more of the greenhouse gasses generated from structures are released due to the energy it takes to constantly heat and cool them. Concrete is different. Insulated concrete wall systems have a high R-value and thermal mass as well as low air infiltration. This means that unlike other structures, which leach heat or cool air out into the world, concrete structures have high thermal efficiency and ensure a stellar energy performance. Homes constructed with insulated concrete do not experience large temperature fluctuations, and can cut their energy bills by up to 25%.

Get In Touch With Del Prete Masonry Today

For all of your questions regarding marble flooring, feel free to contact Del Prete Masonry. Our masonry restoration professionals have the experience and history of satisfied clients to prove that we’ll get the job done right, and cost-effectively. To get started with your masonry restoration project, please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County.

Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook,Twitter, and Google+!

 

Featured Project: Lake Roland Park Stormwater Basin

Friday, May 20th, 2016
stormwater basin before after

The original stormwater basin (left) and the basin with new natural stones (right).

Our team recently finished work on an interesting project that we thought our readers would enjoy! We set to work reconstructing an old stormwater basin in Lake Roland Park. This stone stormwater basin has been a feature of the park since 1840. It was crucial for us to restore the stormwater basin so that it had renewed structural integrity while still preserving the original design of the basin. The result is a new and functional basin that still captures the history of the park. (more…)

Why Use Natural Stone?

Friday, May 13th, 2016
natural stone

Natural stone adds a sophisticated, natural element to any structure.

When it comes time to plan or build a new structure, many wonder just what materials to use. There are certainly a number of different mediums to choose from, all with their own unique pros, cons, look, and lifespan. Natural stone, however, is an old favorite that’s always worth another look for these, and many other reasons.   (more…)

When Is Masonry Demolition Necessary?

Friday, May 6th, 2016
masonry demolition

Cracks in your masonry are a sign that you need repair or replacement.

If you notice cracks or chips in your bricks or concrete blocks, then it may be time to have them repaired or replaced. Dilapidated masonry can negatively affect the professional presentation of a business, which may even affect your success with sales and client retention. If left untreated, defects in masonry could worsen and even become safety hazards. It’s important to know when you need masonry demolition and to act quickly before the damage worsens. (more…)