Masonry Magazine May 2008 Page. 32
BLOCK
Photos courtesy of Azar Mortaress Block Inc.
NCMA is opening a research-oriented facility May 15 in its Herndon office to perform small production runs that simulate typical mass-production facilities. The laboratory will perform tests on concrete products, including recycled materials, to determine their compliance with industry standards and customer specifications.
Currently, Oldcastle offers several blocks, both regionally and nationally, that contain recycled content, Cavanaugh says.
"Green products of all types, including CMU, are definitely becoming more popular as our national and global sustainability concern grows ever larger," he explains. "Some large builders require minimum amounts of greenness and are setting their own standards, independent from [the U.S. Green Building Council] and [Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design] benchmarks."
Azar Mortarless Block Inc. in Tecumseh, Ontario, Canada, is working on an environmentally friendly block that uses post-consumer recycled glass, says Glen Ross, director of marketing and sales for Azar. He expects the block to be available later this year.
"The blocks are 10 pounds lighter, so it's easier for the guys lifting them all day," Ross says. "They also have a higher R-value, so the walls need less insulation."
Azar currently offers a dry-stack block that's comprised of a stretcher, full corner and half corner. The blocks can be inter-locked horizontally and vertically.
Concrete block walls are striving for a higher R-value. Thomas says a growing awareness of energy conservation is prompting manufacturers to consider block designs that insulate better.
"There is more demand for energy conservation," Thomas says. "The thermal mass of concrete masonry makes it an energy-efficient building material, but owners and specifiers are influenced by R-value ratings. This results in increased interest for unit configurations and masonry systems that integrate insulation with reduced thermal bridges."
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Fast, easy installation systems
DESIGNING AND MANUFACTURING mortarless block systems that allow for quick and easy installation is an ongoing trend. The systems let masonry contractors use less-skilled labor for projects.
Minnetonka, Minn.-based Anchor Wall Systems Inc. designs and licenses dry-stacked retaining and free-standing wall systems, says Nancy Johnson, channel marketing manager for the company. A lip along the back of the block keeps each course aligned and provides the necessary setback. The company's new Anchor Highland Stone features earthen colors, rounded edges and rough-hewn textures.
"We found that, for masonry contractors, installing the block requires a far lower skill set-a different skill set-than what they're used to," Johnson says. "Dry-stacked walls are easier and faster to install. You can build a nice wall in less time and with a less-skilled crew."
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