Ever since I've moved to Canada in 2005, I've been asking myself why houses in North America are, by and large constructed so cheaply.
Single-family homes here are overwhelmingly stick-built. In most of Europe, even the most modest dwelling will be made out of masonry, with a mix of concrete prefab concrete elements (blocks, lintels, beams and slabs) that are assembled with poured-in-place concrete to tie it all together.
I could never understand why, since masonry construction seems much more robust and pleasant to live in, as you almost never hear your upstairs neighbours fart.
My question has now been answered and it makes more sense now. Watch this video to find the answer.