Concrete masonry vs. steel stud systems:

Framed walls require multiple products for a complete wall.

A single trade constructs the concrete masonry wall, whereas a multi-component structure can involve three, four, or more separate trades.

• • Steel is very high in embodied energy
  • Drywall: mold food sources
  • Primer and paint: VOCs
  • Batt insulation: toxic binders
  • Sheathing: adhesives, mold food source
  • Significant additional materials needed for fire or acoustical applications