Some Constructive Thoughts on Why Your Materials Matter

Now more than ever, we consider the far-reaching effects of our choices and the items we use. This isn’t limited to masonry and construction, either. Your average homeowner just a decade or two ago might not have been able to tell you what materials their home was built with. But times are changing. The construction materials we choose — and where we get them — matter. Not only to contractors and builders, but to all of us. Whether you own or rent your property, chances are you’re invested in that very building’s impact. Continue reading

Your Masonry and Concrete Masonry Units Will Weather Every Winter

Concrete blocks (or Concrete Masonry Units, a.k.a. CMUs) provide masonry and construction with lasting foundations. To buy cement blocks is to ensure the longevity of your structure. Concrete offers great strength under pressure and the elements, as we’ve talked about before here on the blog. Steel rebar reinforcement will further bolster these properties and provide sustainable structure. Continue reading

Elston Materials of Chicago Is a Member of the Masonry Advisory Council

The Masonry Advisory Council provides free and useful resources to help local contractors, builders, masons, and others of the industry in their respective communities. MAC in Illinois and NW Indiana, per their website, “promotes and markets the benefits of masonry construction, materials, and technologies through educational and informational programs.” We at Elston Materials are proud to be an active supplier to Chicago and a member of MAC. Continue reading