By Dr. Aaron Fisher, PhD PMP, Ernest Maier, Inc.
As climate extremes and environmental accountability coalesce, the need for more resilient structures has never been more apparent. More and more commercial real estate developers find themselves under the gun to rebuild at a feverish pace after disaster strikes.
The critical question remains: when will we start constructing buildings that can withstand extreme elements?
As Monty Spencer, CEO of The Storage Acquisition Group, puts it, “In real estate, time is money, and successful projects are those that meet deadlines while delivering long-term value for both the developer and the community.” His words echo the growing call for durable and efficient building methods that can keep pace with the demand for resilience and sustainability.
Last year alone, the U.S. saw 28 weather-related disasters that each exceeded $1 billion in damages, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This is tragically becoming the norm. NOAA is predicting an 85% chance of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30. https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/billions/events
Beyond the human tragedy, the ripple effects on the economy are severe. Insurance companies have paid out more in claims than they’ve received in premiums, leading to significant premium hikes, reduced coverage, or companies exiting certain states altogether.
The Concrete Masonry Advantage
As a Region 1 Committee Leader of the Concrete Masonry Checkoff (CMC), I’m acutely aware of the misconceptions around building with concrete masonry units (CMU). Often regarded solely for its strength, concrete masonry offers far more. It is safe, energy-efficient, aesthetically versatile, and most importantly, resilient.
For generations, concrete masonry has withstood the harshest environmental conditions on Earth. This longevity minimizes maintenance and replacement costs, making it a cost-effective choice for long-term commercial projects. By absorbing, storing, and releasing heat, CMU helps regulate temperature, reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling. Additionally, concrete doesn’t rot, warp, rust, or combust, meaning fewer repairs and longer intervals between replacements.
Another significant benefit is that concrete masonry construction can streamline the building process by eliminating the need for additional contractors to handle tasks like trim work, drywall installation, and painting. This reduces both the time and cost of a project, which aligns with Monty Spencer’s point on the importance of meeting timelines and budgets in real estate development.
Environmental Considerations
When considering the increasing severity of climate events, developers must build with an eye on sustainability. Concrete masonry can actively sequester carbon from the atmosphere throughout its life cycle, a process called carbonation. Block manufacturers are also adopting greener processes, such as using cement alternatives and optimizing mix designs to lower embodied carbon.
From an aesthetic standpoint, concrete masonry has evolved significantly. Modern designs allow for an array of textures, tones, and finishes, offering developers the flexibility to create visually appealing buildings without sacrificing durability. Whether inside or outside, concrete masonry can achieve intricate patterns and contemporary designs.
A Call for Change
We can no longer afford to repeat the mistakes of the past. Resilient construction methods, such as concrete masonry, provide a solution to the growing challenges posed by climate extremes while delivering long-term value. Developers, investors, and communities must prioritize smarter, sustainable building to remain profitable in the new world we’re living in.
Tenant safety and bottom-line success are not mutually exclusive concepts. CMU construction can bring both to commercial real estate.
Dr. Aaron Fisher, PhD PMP is VP of business development Ernest Maier, Inc.
Region 1 Committee Leader of the Concrete Masonry Checkoff (CMC).
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