SafeCrete Aerated Concrete

March 15, 2010 Training Class

2010-02-15T19:10:00.004-05:00

Join us at the Los Reyes Restaurant in Dalton, Georgia, for an informational training class on SafeCrete AAC construction.

11 am to 5 pm with lunch included.

See our website for directions and more information:
http://www.safecrete.com/traininghome.cfm

AAC House in Beaufort, SC

2009-06-25T17:54:00.002-04:00

Gorgeous home under construction with SafeCrete autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) blocks and panels.

AAC provides both structure and insulation for exterior and interior walls and floors of this home.

The walls will eventually be covered with finish materials.

AAC Floor Panels

2009-06-25T17:40:00.001-04:00

Keyways between the panels make room for rebar. Concrete fills the gap. Many AAC panel floors are covered with a 2" concrete topping for smoothing and leveling. In other cases a floating floor may be constructed over the panels. Tile can be applied directly.

AAC columns

2009-06-25T17:35:00.003-04:00

AAC blocks used to construct square columns. AAC lintels used above.

Wiring in AAC Wall

2009-06-25T17:29:00.003-04:00

Another photo that answers the oft-asked question "How do you put the wiring in the wall?"

In this case a can of orange spray paint was used to draw the wiring before any cuts were made. Most plumbing is done the same way.

SafeCrete AAC blocks on CMU foundation

2009-06-25T17:20:00.003-04:00

CMU is often the simplest, most cost-effective solution for the foundation. AAC is better for the walls of the actual home, because it provides insulation and a more comfortable living environment -- plus AAC makes a great substrate for stucco. But for spaces that will not be heated and cooled, like the crawlspace under a house, CMU works fine.

Guest House

2009-06-25T16:28:00.002-04:00

This garage shot shows nice block coursing, beginning with corners. The blocks in the corner are cored (sometimes called o-blocks) to allow for vertical rebar/concrete cores that connect the foundation to the roof system.

Note the Cast-Crete lintels used as garage door headers. Smaller openings are spanned with AAC lintels.

Jumbo Blocks

2009-04-28T15:20:00.002-04:00

Another photo of the airport project. Note how AAC blocks are used for interior and exterior walls, with AAC panels for the floors. Each room is a soundbox and firebox, protected not only from outside elements but also from the neighbors.

Jumbo Blocks

2009-04-28T14:55:00.003-04:00

Jumbo blocks are a great product for those occasions when you want to install a lot of material quickly, but do not want to pay more for custom-manufactured panels. The small blue cranes in those photo (available at http://www.aactools.com/) are used to set the blocks in place.

This project is a hotel near an airport, where the sound-attenuating qualities of AAC will be greatly appreciated.

How to hang the lighting

2007-11-19T10:35:00.000-05:00

Atlanta home-owner Frank Harms came up with this design for hanging lighting from an AAC panel ceiling without putting the wiring through the panel. Using fake beams, he created a path for his lighting and also a very attractive ceiling design in his kitchen.

SafeCrete blocks in platinum-rated Alberici building

2007-11-19T09:38:00.000-05:00

Alberici Corporate Headquarters in St. Louis, MO (completed December 2004) was awarded the highest LEED® rating for any structure had ever received (60 points.) The Platinum-rated project is part adaptive reuse and part new construction. As one of St. Louis's largest and oldest construction companies, Alberici wanted to create a structure that would inspire and challenge the building industry. To Alberici, this meant providing spaces that were healthy, comfortable, energy-efficient and with minimal environmental impact.

SafeCrete (then under Babb Technologies, Inc.) was tapped for firewall blocks. Alberici needed a product with a high fire rating that could be used for very tall and long wall. They wanted to use reclaimed and recycled products wherever possible, and had heard that we produce autoclave aerated concrete based on fly ash, whereas other manufacturers use sand as a base for their blocks.

There are so many other unique attributes to this building (wind power, bamboo paneling, recycled flooring, no-water urinals) that the SafeCrete blocks sometimes miss being mentioned.

SafeCrete products are frequently used for firewalls. We sell 2" and 3" cladding panels for 1- and 2-hour fire walls, and 4" blocks for 4-hour fire walls. Thicker blocks are used when the design requires greater thickness because of the wall height. The blocks used on the Alberici project are 8" and 12" thick.

Jeannie Babb Taylor
www.SafeCrete.com

Little cabin in the woods

2007-11-05T16:26:00.000-05:00

From the low-pitch roof to the AAC walls, this one-room cabin in Wisconsin is designed with energy efficiency in mind.

Bill writes: My wife Grace and I laid all the block in a couple of weeks of rainy weather. All in all things went great and we are very pleased with the results . . .Thanks to you and Derek for your support in making our dream come true.

Just in time for deer season

2007-11-03T18:53:00.000-04:00

We shipped this small load of roof panels to a meatpacking plant adding onto their existing SafeCrete building. The expansion includes a room just for hanging deer. They built the walls with SafeCrete block and the roof with SafeCrete panels. The structure is essentially a giant cooler!

The floor panel clamp is on top of the floor panels, if you can see it. That's me in the photo.

Jeannie

SafeCrete Goes Gothic

2007-10-10T11:36:00.000-04:00

Autoclaved aerated concrete blocks provide the structure for this breath-taking abbey in the mountains of Virginia.

The exterior is finished with olde world stucco and limestone veneer. To read a detailed journal of the ongoing construction complete with gorgeous photos taken on less foggy days, see http://www.syonabbey.org/Building/building.html

Jeannie Babb Taylor

http://www.safecrete.com/

AAC perfect for Southwest architecture

2007-03-20T17:50:00.000-04:00

This is just the guest house! I love how the southwest architecture emphasizes the versatility of autoclaved aerated concrete. The massiveness of the structure and the clean lines clearly distinguish this project.

Here in the East, upscale buildings tend to incorporate curves, so I tend to think SafeCrete buildings having arches and turrets. Of course SafeCrete is a wonderful building material for almost any type of architecture, as this photo clearly demonstrates.

We currently have dozens of jobs under construction all over the country, from California to the Carolinas, and from Oregon down to New Orleans. Send us your photo and we'll be happy to feature it on the SafeCrete blog!

Aerated Concrete Shortage Update

2007-01-17T16:37:00.000-05:00

Builders around the country report supply problems with aerated concrete projects. In the east, it's a panel shortage, with lead times up to three months. Out west, the supply problem extends to blocks as well. Some builders have been given indefinite ship dates, with the ETA still TBA.

SafeCrete is unique in that we produce AND buy AND sell autoclaved aerated concrete. We can supply your job anywhere in the United States. Because we have multiple material sources, we can work around shortages, extended lead times and supply issues.

Send your piececount and delivery address to safecrete@babb.com and we will respond with a delivered quote and lead time. We are processing many orders right now, but we try to respond with Quick Quotes in 1 business day or less.

SafeCrete for Small Projects

2006-08-30T10:58:00.000-04:00

This photo shows a small SafeCrete house under construction. The foundation has been laid, followed by one course of SafeCrete block. The slab was poured inside the first course, in order to insulate the slab and benefit from its thermal mass. Notice the rebar protruding through the cored block at corners and beside openings. The rebar ties the foundation to the roof, and these cores will be filled with concrete grout when the horizontal bond beam is poured at the top course.

At SafeCrete, our vision has always been to make this remarkable building product available to the general public. We've targeted the residential market with our advertising and website, and we offer monthly training classes to teach folks how to use SafeCrete AAC products properly and efficiently.

SafeCrete AAC products are now used in all sorts of volunteer-built or DIY-built applications including homes, outbuildings, upscale horse barns, churches, and Habitat for Humanity projects.

Here are just a few reasons why DIY builders and volunteer organizations love SafeCrete:

SafeCrete products are lightweight
SafeCrete construction is forgiving
The learning curve is quick
SafeCrete provides basic product & installation training
The SafeCrete system is simple, with one product serving as structure & insulation
We supply bagged goods, tools, fasteners and finishes as well
We provide estimating services and phone consultation
We deliver right to the jobsite, anywhere in the continental U.S.
Your project is important to us, whether you're building a mansion or a dog house

Give us a call to hear what we can do for you.

Jeannie Babb Taylor
www.SafeCrete.com
706-965-4587

50% off Simplex Mini-Crane

2006-08-17T17:01:00.000-04:00

Right now on the SafeCrete Value Lot, we are offering a used Simplex Mini-Crane at 50% off the retail price. This crane is similar to the Lissmac minicranes. It is slightly smaller and (you guessed it) simpler than the Lissmac.

Mini-cranes are used to install aerated concrete jumbo blocks. They can also be used to set AAC lintels or to lift other building products.

Save $5,000 on a used crane at http://www.safecrete.com/aac/value.cfm

We are also selling a number of products including AAC surplus material at savings up to 58%. For details, please call 706-965-4587 and ask for Derek.

Questions? Call Derek

2006-08-04T16:00:00.000-04:00

If you've attended our training classes, chances are you're acquainted with the tall guy in the black cowboy hat. Derek Taylor has been involved in the industry since AAC first came to the United States. Derek helped construct the research and development plant in Ringgold, Georgia to test production of fly ash based AAC. He has designed, constructed, or consulted on countless AAC projects.

In 2005, Derek founded a new company called Taylor Trading Co ( www.TaylorTradingCo.com ). The goal of Taylor Trading Co. is to make AAC building more accessible by providing easy to use and affordable tools. For example, the cost of a specialized AAC handsaw in 2004 was $80. Today, the same saw costs $50.

Recently Derek accepted a position as Chief Operating Officer of SafeCrete. Now he's running the plant that he built years ago, as well as continuing to provide installation consultation and tools to the AAC industry. Go a question? Just call Derek. 706-965-4587

New Product: SafeCrete Brick

2006-07-15T22:51:00.000-04:00

Lightweight, super-insulating SafeCrete bricks are made of autoclaved aerated concrete, just like our larger blocks. The bricks are approximately the same size, shape and price as traditional bricks, but are only a fraction of the weight. They are installed in the same manner with the same mortar, so there is no "learning curve.” The installer will immediately feel the ergonomic benefit of installing lighter bricks. These bricks are not colored, so they are typically painted after installation.

This product is brand new and not on the website yet. Please call us for more information at 706-965-4587. Office hours are 8am to 5pm Eastern.

2006-07-15T22:46:00.000-04:00

Training Class Update

Our last “free” training classes will be held on Friday, July 21, 2006 and Friday, August 18, 2006. We will continue to hold training classes once per month, but there will be a charge of $30 per party (up to four) to help defray costs. Attendees who pay the $30 will receive a coupon of $30 toward the purchase of AAC material. To register for our training class, all you have to do is let us know your name and contact information, how many in your party, and where you are building.

To register please email safecrete@babb.com or call us during office hours.

Jeannie Babb Taylor
www.SafeCrete.com
706.965.4587

2006-06-14T20:56:00.000-04:00

Announcing a revolutionary new product in the SafeCrete line: Borate Lumber!

* Safe
* Non-toxic
* Proven Termite Protection
* Repels Cockroaches
* Resists Carpenters Bees & Ants
* Mold-Resistant
* Green (safe for environment)
* Blue (in color!)

Borate Lumber is frequently termed "indoor lumber" because of its popularity for use as treated studs. Other types of wood treatment contain heavy metals, but Borate Lumber is safe for human contact, even indoors. It can also be used on porches, sillplates, and other areas. It may be used for decks, but will not last as long with direct weather contact as copper-treated lumber. Unlike untreated lumber, Borate Lumber may be used in direct contact with SafeCrete AAC blocks.

See our new website www.BorateLumber.com for pricing and other information. Please note that pricing changes every Friday. Only paid invoices "lock" the price. Call today for a quote. 706-965-4587.

Buy direct and save a bundle!

2006-04-26T23:02:00.000-04:00

Our next free training class is scheduled for Friday, May 12th. Joins us from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm to learn about this exciting building product. We are located at 6652 Hwy 41 North in Ringgold, Georgia. Our plant is on the hill behind Babb Lumber Co.

The class if free but you must pre-register! To register call 706-965-4587 or email your complete contact information to: safecrete@babb.com

See www.SafeCrete.com for more information.

2006-04-26T20:28:00.000-04:00

If you missed our April 7th training class, you also missed a tour of this beautiful new/old home in the Fortwood area of Chattanooga, Tennessee.

2006-04-26T20:15:00.000-04:00

Designer Tatiana Zadora (Studio Z) acted as her own general contractor to reconstruct this old mansion from the ground up. Balancing historical committee demands with modern code requirements and a desire for maximum energy efficiency, Zadora has found autoclaved aerated concrete to be the answer for exterior walls, interior walls, and even ceilings. Both inside and out, the dwelling combines spacious modern design with old world charm to provide living space that is both practical and posh.

2006-04-26T20:08:00.000-04:00

On the exterior, fresh grey stucco combines with the original brick. Wrought iron railings and thick columns finish the look.

2006-04-26T19:55:00.000-04:00

These photos cannot do justice to this beautifully designed home. In the upstairs studio apartment, the kitchen is surrounded by a faux brick bar topped with tile and concrete. The ceiling, constructed of SafeCrete 3" cladding panels, is as smooth as glass. French doors frame a spectacular view of the Chattanooga valley.

2006-04-26T19:52:00.000-04:00

Throughout the home, an array of textures compliment the interior. Smooth paint is offset by textured plaster. Tile is applied directly to the concrete walls. Glass block, brick, and other finishes abound.

2006-04-26T19:38:00.000-04:00

The soaring chimney is constructed from SafeCrete block. Aerated concrete insulates the chimney from heat loss so that more heat stays in the home. A liner is used inside the actual fireplace to prevent flame erosion. The heat is no problem for SafeCrete materials.

On the exerior, faux brick offers an old world paint-over-stucco appearance.

2006-02-27T09:57:00.000-05:00

Free Seminar -- Friday, March 3, 2006
Come join us to learn all about autoclaved aerated concrete. You'll hear, see, and feel the benefits of SafeCrete AAC construction.

The seminar has a strong focus on installation techniques. Tour the plant. Visit a jobsite. See residential and commercial AAC projects. And of course, eat pizza!

Pre-register by calling 706-965-4587 or sending an email to safecrete@babb.com .

2006-02-20T17:39:00.000-05:00

Keeping Warm with Aerated Concrete

Although most SafeCrete aerated blocks are concealed in walls, our materials can also be used decoratively and for architectural centerpieces. Artist John Wilbourne of Rockford, TN creates original works of art, like the fireplace pictured here. For more of Wilbourne's work, see www.doorsandmantles.com

SafeCrete AAC makes beautiful and effecient fireplaces. It is extremely fire resistant, so it can take the heat with no possibility of catching on fire. A liner must be used in the actual firebox, only because the SafeCrete AAC is soft and susceptible to erosion over time from the licking of the flame. The thermal mass of the AAC captures and slowly disburses the heat, offering the masonry fireplace effect. And because AAC is so workable, any design or form can be created.

2006-01-20T10:28:00.000-05:00

Free Training Class
FRIDAY, January 27, 2006
Lunch Included
10:00am - 5:00 pm
Location: 7638 Nashville Street
Ringgold, Georgia (weather)

Come hear our special guest Dennis King, a local contractor and homeowner, share how SafeCrete AAC construction saved the lives of his family.

To register, please email safecrete@babb.com
View Directions

2006-01-20T10:18:00.000-05:00

Stephen Plyler stands in front of his dream house while taking a break from installing the rock around the base of the front porch.

2006-01-20T10:05:00.000-05:00

Porch roof under construction.

2006-01-20T09:27:00.000-05:00

In this photo, the main roof is complete and the windows are going in.

2006-01-18T16:47:00.000-05:00

In this photo, Stephen's walls are complete and the roofing is under construction. What a wonderful view to enjoy!

2006-01-18T16:35:00.000-05:00

One man builds his dream house in Pageland, SC with his own two hands. The walls are constructed with SafeCrete AAC blocks for thermal efficiency, fire resistance and amazingly quiet accoustics.

2006-01-11T10:30:00.000-05:00

Laying AAC Blocks in Cold Weather

When temperatures drop, all types of construction are affected. With SafeCrete aerated concrete construction, the main consideration is freezing mortar. SafeCrete mortar contains special polymers so that it acts more like a glue than a traditional mortar. If the mortar freezes before bonding with the block, it will eventually set but there will be nothing gluing the blocks together.

When the ambient temperature is at least 40° F (4.5° C), proceed as usual.

When the ambient temperature is between 25° F (-4° C) and 40° F (4.5° C), special precautions are needed. Heat mortar (between 40° and 105° F) and make sure blocks are at least 20° F.

If it drops below 25° F (-7°C), do all of the above but heat the masonry from BOTH sides and install windbreaks.

If the ambient temperature drops 20° F (-7°C), please go home and drink a cup of hot cocoa!

For more information, see the cold temperature guidelines in the SafeCrete FAQ:

http://www.safecrete.com/aac/faq.cfm#17

2006-01-01T17:10:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year from all of us at SafeCrete!

We are very excited about the upcoming year. So many good things are in store, including reduced prices, lower freight rates, and the production of AAC materials that are lighter, safer, and easier than ever to work with. Stay tuned for more information . . .

Or contact us:

SafeCrete AAC
www.SafeCrete.com
706-965-4587
safecrete@babb.com