Rethinking the Rebuild After Disaster

A Focus on Designing Buildings That Can Withstand Extreme Elements

DENVER, May 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As the U.S. struggles with the ongoing economic, emotional and environmental toll in the aftermath of California's wildfires and Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the Concrete Masonry Checkoff's (CMC) Beauty of Block highlights the need to end the costly cycle of rebuilding communities in their previous forms.

"We must design structures that stand a chance against extreme elements," said Kim Spahn, CEO, CMC. "These catastrophic events need to compel us to rethink how we can build back communities that are more resilient, sustainable and adequately equipped for the future."

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), in 2024, there were 27 billion dollar weather/climate disaster events with total losses exceeding $182 billion in the United States. Preliminary damage estimates from the 2025 California wildfires alone are $300 billion.

There are practical measures available to ensure infrastructure stands the test of time. It starts by incorporating durable building materials for foundations, walls and roofs — designed to withstand the specific disasters that frequently threaten our communities.

Longevity, energy efficiency and resiliency are just some of the reasons Europe and many other continents have long relied on concrete, brick and stone for residential and commercial structures. Materials such as concrete, brick, and stone are fire resistant, resilient against hurricane-caliber winds, and provide inherent protection against water and wind-driven debris.

The benefits of concrete masonry extend beyond safety. The cost savings are significant over the lifetime of the structure. Concrete is a model of efficiency, with longevity that minimizes maintenance and replacement costs, making it a cost-effective building material in the long term. Each concrete masonry unit (CMU) can absorb heat during the day and release it over time during the colder night hours. This helps regulate temperature fluctuations for occupants, reducing the need for heating and cooling energy, enhancing energy efficiency in buildings.

Insurance premiums to cover concrete structures also tend to be low because providers project damage claims to be few and far between, and repair after extreme events can be minimized. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, every $1 invested in resilient construction saves $13 in future damages, cleanup costs and economic losses.

"We must rebuild with purpose. The materials we choose to rebuild with matter immensely," said Riley Dvorak, National Design Director, CMC. "This is a defining moment for our nation to embrace practical solutions that balance safety, sustainability and affordability. Small, informed decisions today can yield profound impacts for generations to come. It is entirely possible to rebuild with resilience while maintaining beauty and cost-effectiveness."

For those looking for resources to build resilient communities that will stand the test of time, the Block Design Collective provides expert design assistance to help decision-makers incorporate concrete masonry into projects. To complement project support, the Block Learning Hub offers on-demand education with free-to-access accredited courses to enhance industry expertise. Learn more at https://beautyofblock.com/.

ABOUT THE BEAUTY OF BLOCK
The Beauty of Block is an educational effort developed by the Concrete Masonry Checkoff (CMC) to communicate the comprehensive advantages of concrete masonry products. The Beauty of Block reaches architects, engineers, and other construction industry professionals about concrete masonry's performance, value, and contribution to durable, efficient construction. For more information, visit https://beautyofblock.com/ 

ABOUT THE CONCRETE MASONRY CHECKOFF
The Concrete Masonry Checkoff (CMC) is an industry-funded initiative to support education, research and promotion of concrete masonry products 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/ 

For More Information, Please Contact:
Tom DiBacco
CLUTCH
(202) 420-0593
[email protected]

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SOURCE Concrete Masonry Checkoff