Masonry Magazine April 1978 Page. 21
MCAA CONFERENCE REPORT
continued from page 9
demolish and construct from scratch. These renovation and restoration projects are just not 'patch-up' jobs. We are trying to put these buildings in first-class condition. Many of the restoration projects involve large expenditures." Lesko explained that the "bottom line" of GSA's thinking is that its construction program has a new set of priorities. He said that GSA has not totally abandoned new construction, but its first priority is that federal agency space needs will be satisfied through the acquisition and use of historically significant buildings "when prudent and feasible."
"What would this mean to the construction industry as a whole and mason contractors and suppliers in particular? I believe it will provide many more opportunities for the skilled bricklayer and other masonry craftsmen. These old and historical buildings were constructed of concrete, stone, brick, block and plaster-not steel, metal, glass and gypsum board. Restoration work requires skill and care, not production-line methods," Lesko said.
Lesko added that GSA's repair and alterations budget has grown from $100 million a year to the current $200 million. The repair and alteration program covers all of the 10,000 federal buildings. The program is also being used in retrofitting for energy efficiency.
"We have a goal to reduce by 45 to 50 percent the energy required to operate new buildings added to our inventory. It is a lot easier to construct energy efficient new buildings than it is to make our other buildings energy efficient. 'Band-Aid' measures such as turning off lights, although applauded and encouraged, will not be enough to solve the energy problem. This is why retrofitting will be a big business."
How will this affect the masonry industry? Lesko warned: "If retrofitting is big business, you cannot sit back and let the curtain wall manufacturers develop products or methods which could shut you out of the picture. At least I hope not."
Dr. Russell H. Brown's presentation focused on his recent research into the water permeability of masonry walls. The study, initiated in the Chicago area approximately two years ago, was conceived by the Mason Contractors Association of DuPage County, III.
The eight other masonry industry organizations that joined in and supported the project were: the Masonry Institute Promotion Trust; Masonry Advancement Council of DuPage County, Ill.: Mason Contractors Association of please turn page
The wives of MCAA conferees enjoyed many entertaining and relaxing activities as part of the official Ladies Program during the Conference. This scene is from the fashion show atop the Las Vegas Hilton in the Crown Room.
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MASONRY/APRIL, 1978 21