By Chuck Rotondo – Technical Director of the Northeast Region for the Concrete Masonry Checkoff’s Block Design Collective , The Business Journals
Philadelphia’s architectural heritage is deeply rooted in masonry construction, showcasing a rich tapestry of brick and stone. The city has relied on masonry for centuries because of its durability and timeless appeal. But that’s not to say Philly is stuck in the past — far from it. Amid Philadelphia’s current development boom, modern building techniques pair tradition with innovation.
Today’s structures can be every bit as stunning as their predecessors, but the way in which they’re being built has evolved significantly. Until the late 19th century, solid brick walls were the norm — thick, sturdy, and structurally robust. However, these walls were susceptible to moisture infiltration and inefficient insulation — an ongoing challenge in Philadelphia’s variable freeze-thaw climate.
The advent of the cavity wall system has addressed these issues and then some. By introducing an air gap between two masonry layers, both drainage and insulation have significantly improved. Additional insulation is also incorporated into the cavity, further enhancing energy efficiency and building longevity. For these reasons, cavity walls are readily used by designers and builders.
Dynamic duo: brick and block
The cavity wall is where concrete masonry units (CMU) really shine. The formidable combination of block and brick balances structural strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. CMU provides a strong, load-bearing inner wall that supports the building’s structure, including seismic resistance. Meanwhile, brick serves as the exterior veneer, adding weather resistance and a classic architectural finish that integrates seamlessly with Philadelphia’s historic landscape.
The growing appeal of cavity walls
Philadelphia’s older buildings were largely constructed with solid masonry. However, as energy codes become more stringent and developers seek cost-effective, durable solutions, cavity walls are the preferred choice in new construction. Here are a few reasons why block and brick are the ideal one-two punch for Philadelphia:
- Thermal efficiency – The air gap in a cavity wall improves insulation, reducing energy costs year-round keeping occupants comfortable.
- Cost-effective – CMU is affordable and sourced locally, making it a practical choice for balancing budget, timelines and performance.
- Fire resistance – Like brick, concrete masonry is naturally fire-resistant which is especially important in densely-populated urban environments.
- Resilience – Block is utilized the world over for its ability to withstand extreme weather, impact, and heavy loads.
- Moisture control – The cavity design prevents water penetration by allowing proper drainage, reducing risks of mold, discoloration and structural decay.
- Design flexibility – Brick veneer offers a wide range of colors, textures, and architectural styles, enabling both modern and traditional aesthetics without sacrificing performance.
According to the Mason Contractors Association of America, cavity walls provide enhanced durability and long-term sustainability, making them a preferred method in many applications, including:
- Schools, commercial, and institutional buildings – These high-traffic settings call for durability, energy efficiency, and fire resistance.
- Noisy environments – The air cavity and dense masonry materials provide excellent soundproofing, making them a great fit for office buildings, apartment complexes, gymnasiums, event centers and urban developments.
- High moisture/humidity – The space between the inner and outer layers allows for moisture to be directed away from the inner wall, preventing damage and inhibiting the growth of mold and mildew.
More than meets the eye
Many may not realize the crucial role concrete masonry plays behind the scenes. CMU forms the structural backbone of countless buildings, providing the enduring strength Philadelphia hangs its hat on. Its resilience against the elements, fire, and noise makes it indispensable in modern construction. Though not always seen, CMU is the silent workhorse enabling the city’s continued architectural evolution. The next time you’re in a building in the city, take the time to appreciate your sturdy surroundings.
The future of masonry in Philadelphia
As Philadelphia grows, architects, engineers, and developers continue turning to CMU and brick cavity wall construction for its durability, efficiency, and adaptability. This method ensures structures are built to last while preserving the city’s historic charm. Whether restoring historic districts or constructing contemporary high-rises, cavity walls bridge the gap between the past, present and future, cementing Philadelphia’s masonry legacy for generations to come.
Get free design assistance
Interested in seeing how your next project can benefit from CMU or cavity walls? The Block Design Collective offers free design assistance to architects, engineers, and developers. For more information, contact Chuck Rotondo at crotondo@concretemasonrycheckoff.org or visit beautyofblock.com.
Chuck Rotondo is the technical director of the Northeast Region for the Concrete Masonry Checkoff’s Block Design Collective. In his role, he leads a team of design experts dedicated to supporting architects and engineers with tailored solutions.
ABOUT THE CONCRETE MASONRY CHECKOFF
The Concrete Masonry Checkoff (CMC) is an industry funded initiative to support education, research and promotion of manufactured concrete masonry units in the United States. The Concrete Checkoff Program is the first-ever Checkoff Program at the Department of Commerce.
For more information, visit https://www.concretemasonrycheckoff.org/
