April 2106: From the Editor: Green Building and Sustainability

Words: Dan KamysApril 2016

Editor Karen HickeyKaren D. Hickey, Editor - karen@lionhrtpub.com

According to a recent study by Dodge Data & Analytics, global green building is expected to double by 2018. The report found that the percentage of firms expecting to have more than 60 percent of their projects certified — by LEED or another green building program — is expected to grow from 18 percent currently to 37 percent. Not surprisingly, the top sector for green building growth is commercial construction. EnvironmentalLeader.com reported, “The study found that almost half — 46 percent — of respondents expect to build a green commercial project in the next three years.” The website continued: “Similar to other recent studies, this one finds the No. 1 business benefit to green building is lower operating costs, such as reduced energy costs and total lifecycle costs.” The contribution of masonry to green building, LEED certification and other sustainability efforts is obviously continuing to grow as well, and mason contractors must keep pace. Therefore, this issue of Masonry Magazine features an article with some essential information on the new LEED v4 system. It’s all part of perpetuating a sustainable construction industry for the future. This issue also offers some practical information on using anchors and renting equipment. Finally, we provide a final wrap-up of the BRICKLAYER 500™ World Championship that took place in February at the 2016 World of Concrete. P.S. Register today for the 2016 Masonry Industry Legislative Conference, which will be held May 17–19, 2016. Visit www.masoncontractors.org/legislative-conference.
Westlake Royal Building Products™ Expands Partnership with Boise Cascade® for Cedar Renditions™ and Versetta Stone® Distribution

Westlake Royal Building Products™ (“Westlake Royal”), a Westlake company (NYSE:WLK), today announced an expanded partnership with Boise Cascade®, a leading manufacturer and distributor of building materials throughout North America. Strengthening Westl

By: Kriss SwintSophia Possidente
Read More
Four Different Types of Natural Stone Used For Masonry

Natural stone has been a staple in masonry for centuries. Before it was used to transform home and landscape designs on residential properties, it was used for historical buildings and some of the most iconic destinations in the world.

By: Noah Dempsey
Read More
Advice to the Beginners

The best advice I could give anyone that is starting a career in masonry is that first and foremost, you must "know" yourself. What do you like to do? What would you like in a working environment? Do you like to be outside? Do you enjoy physical activity

By: Dan Hiltebeitel
About: Featured
Read More
Masonry Safety Inspections

The look of confusion and utter loss on people’s faces when I tell them that I’m a safety inspector for a masonry company is often hilarious.

By: Justus Everett
About: Safety
Read More