Green concrete fence

Precast concrete fence and wall solutions use eco-friendly products in the manufacturing process. VOC- and mercury-free molds, water-based release agents, and recycled materials reduce the use of cement and the product’s carbon impact. The solutions can be integrally colored and rendered to resemble wood fences and brick and stone walls. No painting maintenance is required. The products use recycled cementitious material to reduce the cement component of the product while yielding more than 5,000 psi. Available products include FenceStone, BrickCrete, and WoodCrete Rail.

Artisan Precast Inc., Los Angeles,
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A Four-Point Checkup

Durability, maintenance, eco-friendliness, and design options are important considerations when specifying flooring for healthcare facilities.

When specifying flooring in healthcare facilities, one must take into account specific considerations unique to the building environment. For example:

• Will the floor withstand foot and wheeled traffic?
• Will it perform with the planned maintenance routine?
• How does the floor complement green attributes of the facility?
• Do the design options fit into the overall design of the building?
• Do the available colors, patterns, and textures help create the desired sensory effect?

When designing healthcare interiors, flooring materials should be chosen according to performance, environmental impact, and design. Materials should be high performing to stand up to the daily wear of a congested healthcare environment. They must be cost effective to install and maintain. And, the completed design should be calming to the patients and employees, avoiding the institutional feel of traditional healthcare interiors.

At the Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, TN, Linotesta and Viale flooring create a bright and cheerful environment for young patients.

Standing up to traffic

Flooring in most healthcare facilities is subject to high traffic and constant use. The ideal flooring should be able to perform to expectations. Proper maintenance is critical to achieving long-term appearance retention and value.

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