There are a few different materials that have been used for centuries by builders. Concrete is one of them, though it has changed and been improved upon over the years. Concrete is a material that we still use frequently for masonry projects. It’s used as a foundation for homes and businesses, as a material for signs and statues, and even for roads and sidewalks. One of the best things about concrete is its versatility. Concrete can be used for nearly any masonry project. When you think of concrete, you probably think gray, drab, and boring – but concrete has become so much more than that. With new innovations and the ability to mix colors into concrete, it has become a great, aesthetically pleasing material to work with. That’s certainly not the only benefit of using concrete, though.
Why We Still Use Concrete for Masonry
- Sustainability – This probably wasn’t a reason for using concrete hundreds of years ago, but it’s certainly a reason that we use it now. Producing concrete results in very few carbon dioxide emissions. The majority of carbon dioxide emissions from a concrete building actually come from the electricity used inside the building. Concrete also has reflective qualities that help keep it cool, resulting in less of an “urban heat island” problem when concrete is used in place of aggregate in cities.
- Durability – When we build a structure, we want it to last. Concrete structures have been known to last for centuries if they’re taken care of. Some concrete structures date all the way back to the Roman Era. Concrete is used for bridges, tunnels, and dams – all structures that require the strongest material available. When we use concrete, we know we’re using something that stands the test of time and pressure.
- Low maintenance – If you’re like most people, you don’t want to spend a lot of time taking care of your building or masonry structure. Concrete is relatively low maintenance and doesn’t attract mold or deteriorate simply because of time. Weather can wear it down, but there are precautions that you can take to keep your concrete structure standing and intact. It’s easy to take care of and will last you a lifetime.
Building with Concrete
While there are many other materials that we use at Del Prete Masonry, we’re not about to abandon concrete anytime soon. It has proven its worth many times over and we know that we can bring you a solid masonry structure when you choose concrete. To find out more about your masonry options including concrete masonry, 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+.
Sources: WBCSD Cement, CBDG
Tags: benefits of concrete[, commercial masonry, concrete masonry