The concept of ‘sustainability’ is firmly situated in the present. More and more, it’s becoming increasingly important as we begin to realize—and try to reduce—our impact on the environment. Many people are often surprised to know that masonry, one of the oldest building methods in the world, is also one of the most sustainable.
Historically brick is more durable, less resource intensive, and requires less maintenance than other building materials. Brick provides thermal storage by storing heat and releasing it slowly to keep buildings cooler during the day and warmer at night, helping to reduce energy costs. Brick doesn’t require varnish or finish, mitigating chemical impacts to the environment, and is also easily recyclable.
At Potomac Valley Brick, we’re continuing to advance the use of sustainable brick with the help of one of our manufacturers—Green Leaf Brick. Composed from 100 percent recycled content, Green Leaf Bricks are designed and engineered specifically for sustainable construction, including projects requiring LEED certification. These bricks are made from waste streams that have little to no remaining commercial use. Through an innovative manufacturing process, a real masonry brick is created that’s composed entirely of refuse including materials rescued from landfills, open pit mining byproducts and plant refuse, processed sewage wastes, recycled iron oxides, recycled glass, mineral tailings and other virgin ceramic scrap. There are currently more than 25 different recycled raw materials approved for use in Green Leaf Brick including up 31 percent post-consumer waste.
What’s revolutionary about Green Leaf is that its bricks aren’t reclaimed or reused. Green Leaf Bricks are the only sustainable bricks made from 100 percent recycled content that are fully ASTM certified real clay brick. In the last few years, using recycled or reclaimed brick has become more common, but doing so can compromise the classic look, feel, durability, and stability of new brick structures. With Green Leaf, customers benefit from the use of authentic fired masonry brick and pavers.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most extensively utilized green rating system in the world and provides a framework to create healthy, highly efficient and cost-saving green buildings. When builders and architects are seeking certification, sustainability is a key component. Green Leaf’s production methods help its brick meet strict criteria considered in the LEED certification process. The potential for earning a certification is also enhanced by the fact that Green Leaf produces bricks made only with regional materials sourced near its production facilities.
To learn more about the benefits of sustainable brick and the options available through Green Leaf, contact Potomac Valley Brick today.
