Architects across the US are now implementing original clay brick for the entire house to make the house more sustainable in terms of design on saving on energy costs. Apart from complying to the green building requirements, it also helps users to maintain a leading edge over their competitors.
Genuine brick is free of volatile organic compounds and is often part of recycled content. Bricks that are purchased locally helps prevent the use of fossil fuels. In 49 out of 50 metropolitan cities of the US a minimum of two brick plants are located within a distance of 500 miles.
Natural brick is now combined with green materials for exteriors or for reusing existing walls in order to extend the lifecycle of the building. It is also used for interior walls as a solar design for energy harvesting. Brick walls regulate extreme temperatures during the day by absorbing excess solar energy. Brick walls offer a life span of 25-50 years and involve low maintenance even during extreme weather conditions. They also provide resistance to moisture and termites, seismic strength, a minimum fire rating of one hour, thermal mass and natural aesthetics. As compared to vinyl clad homes, brick homes use 1-2% lesser energy. Major projects involving brick walls include Pierce/Lee House in Cedartown, Ga, Hudson Valley Georgian in Dobbs Ferry, N.Y, French Manor Home in Winnetka, Ill and Lewisburg Residence in Lewisburg, Penn.
Source: http://www.gobrick.com