Material Efficiency: Concrete Masonry
Single vs. Multiple Layers

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

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