Masonry Magazine May 2008 Page. 28
BLOCK
# Same strength, new look
ARCHITECTURAL APPEARANCES of block continue to evolve. Thomas says manufacturers are "tumbling" blocks or using other techniques to chip away at the blocks, making them look aged. Manufacturers also have started stamping the face, so the blocks aren't perfectly smooth, opening the door to different appearances.
"It's all about aesthetic features and looks," Thomas says.
Trenwyth Industries in Emigsville, Pa, offers a popular glazed block, Astra-Glaze, that has the glazing compound cured and heat-treated in kilns, says Carolyn Beach, Trenwyth marketing manager.
"Glazed block has a unique quality in that it has a tight, impervious surface that naturally resists mold and moisture," Beach says.
The company strives to use local aggregates in its block to give it a local flavor. "We make our blocks so they're indigenous to the area," she says. "The aggregates in the block in your building blend into the area."
"It's all about aesthetic features and looks."
Bob Thomas, National Concrete Masonry Association
# Take the Grunt out of Grouting!!!
# The Style and Durability of Glass Block
Glass unit masonry, more commonly called "glass block," is being used extensively in homes for windows, showers, partition walls and recreation bars, says Bob DeGusipe, marketing manager for Pittsburgh Coming Corp. in Pittsburgh. The material is also being used commercially in schools, hospitals, office buildings and institutional buildings.
"In commercial applications, the product is ideal where durability with light transmission, privacy and security control are key. Glass block is, essentially, a brick that lets in light." DeGusipe says. "The product can be used with almost any style of architecture. Therefore, it has universal appeal."
DeGusipe is seeing a push toward developing glass block systems that can meet the increasing emphasis on safety and security in buildings, such as hurricane, blast and ballistics protection, while new patterns and colors offer broader aesthetic appeal.
"Finishing blocks to create step-down walls and blocks to turn 45- and 90-degree and tight radius turns offer even more design flexibil
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26 Masonry May 2008 www.masoncontractors.org
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