This is the first e-Newsletter in a new series called “e-Matters,” which is a blog-like document written by the Nebraska Masonry Institute, with a definite bias, dealing only with matters affecting masonry.  The first "e-Matters" covers Flashing and Venting of Single Wythe Walls.  Please feel free to download a copy for yourself and pass it on to anyone who might be interested.

(NUI) - The horrifying images of the fire at a Rhode Island nightclub have heightened Americans' concerns about fire safety, according to the results of a new national survey. A survey of 1,000 American adults, commissioned by the National Concrete Masonry Association, shows more than 61 percent of Americans say they are more worried about fire in public and commercial buildings because of what they've heard and read about recent fires.” Recent fire tragedies have raised a very serious red flag about how well buildings are designed, constructed, operated and maintained to protect the lives of occupants," said Gene Corley, senior vice president of Construction Technology Laboratories and head of the team that analyzed the design implications, damage and mechanics of the collapse of the World Trade Center.

(NUI) - The growth of mold in buildings not only presents health-related problems, but also requires expensive home repairs. Some homeowners who find mold in their home have to completely remove and replace walls and ceilings where the mold growth has been discovered. Mold can grow when its food sources - such as wood construction materials and furniture, paper in drywall and wallpaper, and organic fibers in fabrics, carpet backings and dust -  are exposed to high levels of moisture.

(NUI) - In January 1998, fire erupted from the gas water heater in the Crowders' 1950s ranch-style home. Although the family escaped unharmed, their wood frame home was destroyed within 15 minutes despite an immediate response from the local fire department. Unfortunately, the Crowders are not alone. According to the National fire Protection Association, 76 percent of all structure fires in the United States in 2001 occurred in residences, resulting in $4.65 billion worth of property loss in one- and two- family dwellings alone. Fire also kills more Americans than all natural disasters combined, with 84 percent of all fire deaths occurring in residences.