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Masonry homes make the grade (NC)-Our home is an important - asset that must be protected to ensure the safety of our family Masonry homes provide excellent air quality, sound con- trol, impact resistance and protection against mould and mildew growth. z Masonry products are recognized as being among the oldest, longest-lasting and most versatile building materials Z available. z The air quality of our home is vital in maintaining our health and safety Cont- < aminants found indoors can be the z result of poorly-constructed materials and fumishings that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) through a process known as out-gassing. Com- pared to other building materials, masonry provides top quality out- gassing performance and emits very low levels of VOCs. In addition, many masonry products do not require paint- ing, thereby reducing the amount of volatile organic compounds released. Noise control can be difficult in urban environments. Normal conversa- tion is approximately 60 decibels, whereas the noise from heavy traffic can reach 85 decibels. Reducing noise along the path from its source to the listener can offer an effec- tive solution. A masonry wall uses a relatively high mass that serves to decrease the amplitude of vibration, thus reducing the noise level on the other side of the wall. Sound resistance is an important factor in overall well-being, especially in dense urban areas. On a decibel level, long or repeated exposure to levels higher than 85 decibels, (for example firecrackers or firearms), can cause significant hearing loss, otherwise known as noise-induced hearing loss (NHL). Distance or resistance from these sounds is critical to protecting one's hearing. Masonry walls produce a significant advantage in reducing noise transmission. The ability to resist impact also makes masonry a practical choice for homes and buildings. Masonry homes are inherently durable and provide increased security for your family "We know your home is your safe-haven and masonry homes provide the best quality in health, safety and comfort," said Judy Pryma, president of MasonryWorx. Masonry can resist the effects of damage when a wall is destroyed and help facihtate repairs. A number of different techniques are available that can make existing masonry walls stronger and more capa- ble of withstanding impact from high winds, bullets, explosions and other objects. Building with masonry not only provides imprved air quality, noise control and impact resistance, but it also prevents the formation of mould. Mould develops when there is moisture, such as water condensation on walls or flood- ed areas According to w a, or vi 1Wo r \ o o. masonry wall systems are con- structed in a way that mini- mizes this accumulation and resists the penetration of moisture. Problems with mould and mildew are known to contribute to health risks such as asthma and throat infections; therefore, preventing mould growth is essential in main- taining a healthy and risk-free home environment. Masonry products provide superior advantages to the average homeowner. When purchasing or building a home, be sure to explore the numerous benefits of brick, block and stone, including health, security and durability rw!w ýJ3 lui Asmam1Tý 75 IXW im T