The strongest schools are made of masonry inside and out, not just with outside veneer. Architects appreciate the design options, both inside and outside of the school building, that come from masonry. The more masonry that is included for interior walls, the more thermal-mass effect is available. Exteriors and interiors of face brick, stone, and custom block never need painting. Interiors walls made of epoxy-coated regular block withstand cleaning after cleaning, scotch taping after scotch taping and keep looking good.
Masonry resists damage from moisture so cleaning is easier with masonry building interiors.
Compared to other materials of similar durability and beauty, masonry is competitive initially. In life-cycle cost comparisons, few products are its equal. Additional cost savings can be realized when schools are designed to include structural load-bearing masonry systems. Local companies all over the Carolinas produce concrete blocks. The masons who install these products are your neighbors and may have even learned their trade in your school system.