Pennsylvania Concrete Masonry Association - Diverse, Sustainable, Solutions Home constructed with a concrete block basement
Build it Better with CONCRETE BLOCK
block basement
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Concrete Block Basement Diagram Concrete Block Basement Sidewall Construction
THE COMMON SENSE BASEMENT FOR YOUR HOME.
Think Smart - increase your living space with a COST EFFECTIVE, ENERGY EFFICIENT and DRY concrete block basement.
ECONOMICAL
Least expensive basement system for first cost investment and requirements for block basements have not changed in the recently updated building codes.

Other concrete wall systems have additional reinforcement requirements and more on site inspections which raise costs and add time to the project.

Benefit: Use the money you will save to enhance the kitchen, family room or other part of your home.

SUSTAINABLE - GREEN BUILDING
Block basements allow for more living space within the home on a smaller lot.

Block has a 66% less carbon footprint than other concrete products thus conserving our environment.

Block does not give off any VOCs for a healthier indoor environment.

Little construction waste is created on the jobsite.

Benefit: Saving the environment.

ENERGY EFFICIENT
The thermal mass of concrete block contributes to lower energy costs. Insulation installed to meet the R Value for your climate zone according to the IRC will also lower heating and cooling costs.

Benefit: Lower energy costs throughout the life of your home saving you money. Conservation of our natural resources.

LOCALLY PRODUCED
Concrete block are produced in your local area and installed by local masons. It is truly a product that is made in the USA.

Benefit: Supporting business in your community.

MOLD & TERMITE RESISTANT
Concrete masonry is NOT a food source for mold or termites. It dries while other materials hold the moisture or deteriorate.

Benefit: If mold occurs concrete masonry can be cleaned and does not need to be replaced.

block basement

QUICK & VERSATILE
Block is readily available with no need to wait for custom panels. Before a precast panel is delivered on site, your block basement can be in place.

Block basements can be constructed in any shape to easily conform to your house plan and lot specifications. Add doors and windows with ease during construction. The flexibility of block walls allows you to renovate or add an addition any time in the future. A window or door can be cut out of a block basement wall for future remodeling much easier and with less cost than other wall systems.

Benefit: Design changes can be easily made during construction to meet your needs without costly delays.

EGRESS
Windows, doors and other forms of egress can be designed into the house to make it easier to convert your basement into livable space..

Benefit: Flexibility for future home remodeling.

DECK ATTACHMENT
As of the 2009 IRC, decks can be attached to concrete masonry easier than with other materials.

Benefit: Your family enjoying the outdoor space.

FINISHING OF INTERIOR WALL
For minimal cost concrete block basement interior walls can be finished to provide you with an enjoyable living space.

Benefit: Family Room, Workout Room, Home Entertainment Room, or Hobby Shop can be added easily.

ALL CONCRETE BLOCK HOME
For the added benefits of energy efficiency, noise control, fire protection, wind and hurricane resistance, termite control and more, consider concrete block exterior walls from the basement to the roof. Save a tree while creating a safe and secure home for your family.

block basement
Pennsylvania Concrete Masonry Association
813 Chestnut Street | Lebanon, PA 17042 | Phone: (717) 279-6346
E-mail: JBoyer@PACMA.com