In the construction and general industry fields, there are quite a number of dangers within the various work environments. This, of course, makes perfect sense when you consider the number of variables one must deal with daily. It is only logical when you

In the construction industry, masonry is a labor-intensive trade. Each day, masons handle thousands of concrete masonry unit (CMU) that form a building’s structure. Because normal weight (NWT) CMU weigh about 50 pounds (lbs), repetitive lifting can strain

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Paul Cantarella Jr. joins the show to talk about his career and passion for the masonry industry, how his journey started, the building of his family's company, and his life outside of work as well. Childhoo

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Jameel Ervin joins the set to dive into his experience in the masonry industry, how he got to where he is now, and what it was like growing up in Chicago. From the Ground Up: Jameel's Introduction to Masonry

Creating Space. Two simple words that have been a leading topic of conversation in the building industry for years. Over time, we have seen a number of innovations in cladding materials. (mention of non-masonry materials - cladding) I remember when our op

One of my dreams is to play in the top 100 rated golf courses in the world. Often these courses are private country clubs which hold professional golf tournaments. To date, I have been fortunate to play over 350 of them. Every year, I look forward to "Gol

I have been at this for a long time, and a generation or two have come and gone since I started. I have worked with grandfathers, fathers, and now sons from the same family. I have seen similarities and differences. In one case, I saw a grandson believe h

Money plays a crucial role in our lives. It allows us to experience joy and comfort, whether it is through vacations, good food, or living in a nice home. Having experienced both wealth and financial struggle, I can confidently say that having money is be

The settings of films can take viewers to different parts of the world and express the story through visually stunning locations. From ancient ruins to medieval architectural marvels, these four iconic movie locations enhanced the storytelling of the movi

At 89 years old, Karl Bergamo is a living testament to the enduring strength and timelessness of the masonry profession. With nearly seven decades of experience in the trade and learning from the best (including WW2 Veterans), Bergamo has seen the industr

One of the biggest technical challenges for architecture students is understanding how to draw proper wall sections, especially with rainscreen technology. After more than 15 years of teaching, I have found that when students build full scale, with real m

Spherical Block, LLC and Geopolymer International are working together to develop new concrete technologies and products for the construction industry. These two firms have been approached over the past few years by companies, individuals and investors fr

In Episode 9 of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, we dove into the incredible journey of Kent Bounds, a prominent figure in the masonry industry, whose path was shaped by his father, Mackie Bounds, and his early experiences in the family business.

Becoming a mason is a skilled trade that has been an integral part of construction for centuries. As a mason, you not only build structures but also lay the foundation for a variety of career paths that can enhance your professional journey. My journey a

Known for its durability, strength, and timeless appeal, brick’s low maintenance requirements make it a popular choice for homeowners looking to save on maintenance costs or those in extreme climate zones. While brick requires minimal upkeep in comparison

As a young teenager, I was introduced to the construction industry—specifically, masonry—when I started working with my older brothers on weekends. I was the youngest of 11 kids (yes, eight boys and three girls!), and my brothers, who were bricklayers, of

They say communication is one of the most necessary and impactful ingredients in a successful marriage. Communication in a masonry business is much the same. Building a culture of safety is no different. We want people to avoid injury and illness, and the

Masonry mortar is an ancient building material, yet it remains central to the modern construction industry. Its combination of resilience and forgiveness has enabled the creation of ancient architectural masterpieces through contemporary skyscrapers. Alon

Brick has been used for thousands of years as a building material, renowned for its strength and durability. Whether constructing a home, office building, or even a simple fence, brick remains a reliable choice. However, in today's brick industry, a signi

This episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast explored Melonie Leslie’s fascinating journey in the masonry industry, her experience as a leader, and life beyond the bricks and mortar. Let's dive into Melanie's story, her impactful role in the masonry world,

Mast-climbing platforms are efficient and inherently safe technology that allows people to work safely at significant heights. Despite numerous safety features, accidents still sometimes happen—not because the platforms fail, but often because humans do.

With challenges such as labor shortages, rising costs, and increasing competition, masonry businesses must find ways to work smarter, not just harder. Fortunately, construction technology and software solutions tailored to field management and operations

Transforming spaces with warmth, character and a touch of rustic charm doesn’t always require a complete overhaul, but can be quickly and efficiently achieved with manufactured stone veneer (MSV). Whether your customers are looking to elevate the look of

2024 was a year of innovation and advancement in the masonry industry. From tools, to materials, to technology, companies all across the trade are putting their foot forward to change masonry for the future. This year, we reached out to our MAP partners

The locations and settings of films create a new layer of storytelling and can shape the atmosphere of the scene. As the holidays draw near, take some time to revisit some classic holiday films that feature impressive and festive masonry structures.

In the fast-moving business world, it is easy to prioritize work, deadlines, and wealth accumulation over your health. However, you may find that if you spend the first half of your life only building wealth, you may spend the rest of your life depleting

Manufactured stone veneer (MSV) is a popular material for creating stunning walls in residential new builds, remodels, and commercial projects. For masons, understanding the nuances of working with MSV can greatly impact the final look of a project, where

"I have some deep concerns about the future of your company. I have some deep concerns about your leadership. I have some deep concerns about the management team you have assembled. Your business is not growing for one reason: You and your management team

Masonry has greatly influenced urban planning and development for centuries, shaping the architecture and resilience of cities worldwide. Comprising brick, stone, and concrete (out of scope material) masonry units (CMUs), masonry materials have not only p

On this episode, the MCAA had the pleasure of chatting with Phil and Donnie Williams, two brothers with deep roots in the masonry industry. Join us as we share their story, learn from their experiences, and explore how the masonry world has evolved over t

Welcome back to another insightful episode of the Masonry Strong podcast! Today, we have a very special guest, Zach Everett, sharing his journey and experiences in the world of safety within the masonry industry. From humble beginnings to becoming a vital

Crisis management is a process that employers use to respond to, and recover from, unplanned events. The best time to develop a crisis management plan is before a crisis occurs. A crisis management plan can help companies maintain business continuity, pro

With masonry being a piece count trade, the more units that are laid in the field that surpass the quantity figured in the estimate, the more profit that is made. Masonry crews in the field need a good foreman that is capable of organizing the crew, posit

Tom Vacala's story is as unique as it is inspiring. Born into a large family of 11 kids, Tom's initiation into the world of masonry was practically predestined. With a family deeply rooted in construction—his father a carpenter and his uncle a mason—Tom w

Learn about how Stephen made his way into politics and how he became the lobbyist for the MCAA. Speaking on what it was like to move from Chicago up to the highest level in Washington D.C. Steven’s journey to becoming a lobbyist was somewhat unexpected. O

If you read my columns regularly, you know I enjoy employing sports analogies. It is not just that I love sports, which I do—Go Bengals. The parallels between sports and business are very relatable and evident, whether I am watching or participating. Take

My first year in high school, I went out for the water polo team. Our coach for the “B” team was also the head baseball coach who never played water polo and couldn't swim. As the season progressed, we learned the basics and began to gel as a team. I like

I hope this article finds you finally cooled down from this hot summer. Everywhere I went felt hot and sticky, well, except for Bozeman, MT. When you are in Bozeman, everything is cool. I have been working as a laborer, sawman, brick washer, and bricklaye

The settings and backgrounds of narratives enhance the atmosphere and tone of the story. Whether it's the harsh marble or stone design of a castle or the warmth of a brick home, the buildings used provide an extra layer of storytelling that impacts how th

We are almost to the finish line. No, I am not counting down the weeks until the end of the year, or season. I am alluding to one of the most hated cycles in the entire U.S.A.: the election cycle.

This month, MASONRY Magazine sat down with Parker Leske, a young business owner who has a passion and knack for learning everything he can about the masonry industry. From being unsure of what to do with his life to starting his own company before he cou

Welcome to the second installment of our “Vibing Masonry” series on the benefits and functionality of masonry in modern construction, with a focus on its environmental and sustainability advantages. The Environmental Case for Masonry Masonry is a sustain

In today’s construction landscape, masonry companies are facing an increasingly pressing challenge: the shortage of skilled labor. This shortage is not just a minor inconvenience but a significant hurdle that threatens the industry's growth and sustainabi

Completed in Fall ahead of the 2023 Major League Soccer season, CITYPARK St. Louis is a state-of-the-art, soccer-specific stadium in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri. The new stadium features geometric lines and unique masonry, creating a contemporary yet

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, MCAA Chairman, Dick Dentinger, explains how he got started in the industry and how important he views networking, as well as the association as a whole. Experiencing the MCAA Mid-Year Meetings Attending the

China is the world's largest construction market and the largest producer and user of various types of building blocks (AAC blocks, hollow concrete blocks, porous clay sintered blocks, etc.). According to industry association statist

Lay the Foundation for Success: Enter the 2024 Brick Awards Today! The Brick in Architecture Awards celebrates the world’s most innovative and sustainable architectural designs, all centered around the creative use of clay

Join us for an insightful Program Webinar on October 29th at 12 PM ET/11 AM CT, where you will hear directly from industry leaders Jeff Buczkiewicz and Ryan Shaver. They will discuss two pivotal programs shaping the future of the masonry industry: the Nat

The Mason Contractors Association of America is announcing an open invitation to all industry professionals interested in joining our diverse range of committees. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to fostering a collaborative environment w

Masonry contractors in the USA must adhere to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations to maintain a safe work environment. OSHA, the federal agency responsible for worker safety, sets stringent guidelines to protect workers from t

The Thompson Library at Ohio State University is a landmark of historical and architectural significance. Its renovation, completed in 2009, was a comprehensive project that aimed to modernize the facility while preserving its historic character. The proj

As Halloween approaches, there’s no better time to delve into the eerie tales that haunt our historic buildings. One such story surrounds the New York State Education Building in Albany, NY—a towering structure steeped in history and mystery. Constructed

The settings and backgrounds of films enhance the atmosphere and tone of the story. Whether it's the harsh marble or stone design of a castle or the warmth of a brick home, the buildings used provide an extra layer of storytelling that impacts the film. A

No matter your professional or personal goals, there will always be perpetual pessimists who doubt you will be successful. And it is not always your competitors or perceived enemies. Sometimes it is your best friend, trusted mentor, or even a business ido

Have you ever been the low bidder on a construction project and didn’t get the job? It doesn’t seem fair. Why did it happen? What can you do to avoid this happening again in the future? Bidding more and more jobs against too many low-priced competitors wo

We have tons of gray areas in construction. Possibly only outnumbered by the fine lines we walk. Every day you can feel yourself stepping out on that tightrope where one false move could send you plummeting 50 stories back down to reality. There is one th

The passing of Simon Verity at Carmarthenshire, Wales, the man responsible for the 31 figures at the Portal of Paradise at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine in the city of New York, causes us to reflect on the creativity and the passion for ston

In Colorado and across the country, destructive wildfires have evolved from a seasonal challenge to a year-round threat. We are taking a proactive and common sense approach to prepare for, prevent, and respond to wildfires. We know that it takes all of u

Masonry was introduced to the world through the imagination, determination, and pure strength of mankind. The first masons’ unique abilities harnessed the earth around them to create the structures that provided the security that allowed us to advance. Th

In this article, we travel to the island of Great Britain, a land known for its Marvelous Masonry. From such icons as Stonehenge, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben Clock Tower, and their brick arch railway bridges, masonry has been the dominant building material

Masonry conveys protection, shielding occupants from external threats. Masonry also provides strength and resistance—separation from and resistance to fire, resistance against projectiles and ballistics, robust defense against vandalizing mobs and spontan

This issue’s questions come from a Mason Contractor, an Architect, and an Engineer.  What questions do you have? Send them to info@masonrymagazine.com, attention Technical Talk.   Q.  A Mason Contractor writes that they have a project to install a concret

Located in Hampshire, England, Highclere Castle has gone through three iterations from its beginnings in the medieval era to today. Ownership of the estate’s land can be traced back to 749 A.D.

Have you ever paid the salary of one of your competitor’s employees? I am confident your answer is a resounding no. But you may be wrong. In fact, this may be happening every day. When these incidents occur, most of them are not intentionally malicious; b

So instead of just jumping right into dollars and cents, I am going to skip it entirely. This article isn’t about appreciation in value. It is about the appreciation you show to others. Do you appreciate your employees, clients, subcontractors, or your bo

Construction business owners often ask me: "How much profit should we expect to make? - 5%, 10%, 15% or more?" Most don’t know how much money they should make and don’t have a specific profit target to aim for. Some have heard 15% is a good target, but th

As technology dominates our daily lives, the yearning to stay connected with the natural world intensifies. This is the essence of the biophilia hypothesis, which posits that humans have an intrinsic affinity for nature. Research supports this, showing th

Atelierfy is a construction and design studio specializing in traditional and sustainable building techniques and materials. Our goal is to develop innovative ideas for more sustainable buildings and cities and to bring these ideas to life. We integrate n

Over the past few years, Lunch-N-Learns have become an invaluable platform for bridging gaps between architects and the masonry industry. These workshops have allowed block manufacturers to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and collaborate on innovativ

In the construction industry, ensuring the safety of workers should be the highest of our priorities, and head protection is a critical component of that safety protocol. With various standards governing the quality and efficacy of safety helmets, underst

As masons approach the milestone of retirement, the transition can bring a mix of excitement, anticipation, and uncertainty. For those who have spent their lives working in the physically demanding and highly skilled masonry trade, the prospect of retirem

The Dakota, completed in 1884, exemplifies robust masonry construction, characteristic of the era's grand apartment buildings.

How Do You Treat Your Best Clients? Do you bend over backward to help them succeed? Do you work tirelessly to help them achieve their goals? Do you ignore their desires and do whatever you want no matter what they think? Ok, that last one was a test. Well

Take a moment to reflect on a time when you faced something that seemed impossible. Maybe it was a dream, a task, or an expectation. What if I told you that you were the only reason it was impossible? There is a little-known quote from Matt Hill that says

The best advice I could give anyone that is starting a career in masonry is that first and foremost, you must "know" yourself. What do you like to do? What would you like in a working environment? Do you like to be outside? Do you enjoy physical activity

If your pension fund doesn’t hold NVIDIA stock, your fund manager has some questions to answer. This week, NVIDIA became the most valuable company in the world, with a market cap exceeding $3.4 trillion. They have been at the forefront of AI mania that ha

In today's evolving landscape of skilled trades, where tradition meets innovation, Sam Berryman's journey into the masonry industry is not just a career choice but a testament to heritage, passion, and the profound rewards of hard work. Influenced by his

Like many government regulations, the intent may be clear and worthwhile, but the implementation causes more harm to law-abiding citizens and business owners than it does to actually block or punish the bad actors the regulation was meant to address.

On July 2, OSHA released its “Proposed Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Programs Rule” as a new, proposed standard to prevent heat illnesses and injury in indoor and outdoor settings.

“Take This Job and Shove It.” Every job has highs and lows. But if you start talking – or singing – like Johnny Paycheck, then it is time for a rebound.

How many of us have landed in this scenario? We have a crew, maybe our only crew. They have been with us for a while, and we are comfortable letting them handle projects without much supervision. You decide that you are going for broke this year.

In today's construction industry, there is a significant talent shortage, with less than 3% unemployment for critical roles such as project managers, estimators, and field supervisors.

Who among us can claim that worry has resulted in a longer life? The same thing applies to business. Who among us can claim that worry has resulted in business growth? I’m confident the answer is no one.

The BIA Research Codes and Standards (RC&S) Committee recently focused on technical research intended to support or increase the use of clay brick. Multiple research projects are being pursued.

Fatalities caused by falls from heights continue to be the leading cause of death for employees, accounting for 844 of the 5,486 fatalities recorded in 2022. Those fatalities were preventable.

The McCallister House, an iconic Chicago landmark, stands as a testament to timeless architectural elegance and historical significance. Constructed in 1887 by architect Henry Ives Cobb, characterized by its robust stone, intricate carvings

This issue’s questions come from an Architect and a Mason Contractor.

In today's fast-paced world, masonry professionals are increasingly turning to technology to streamline their workflows and stay ahead of the competition. With the right tools at your fingertips, winning new jobs has never been easier.

The Great Wall of China is an iconic testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. Winding its way through China's rugged terrain, it is one of history's most impressive architectural feats.

There will always be a desire for familiarity in entertainment and cinema; the thrill of seeing a structure you’ve visited or studied will never fade. Many might not even realize what they see in the media is also in real life.

Winner of the 14th annual National Apprenticeship contest held recently in St. Louis, Mo., was Ronald Pfleger, Local No. 2, Mo.

Forty-two persons from nine states attended MCAA's first Management Institute held here at the Park Ridge Inn on July 20-22.

Welcome to the industry’s biggest masonry show — MCAA’s 1961 Convention and Exhibition.

The MCAA proudly announces the commencement of submissions for the esteemed Safety Advantage Awards. From March 1st through June 30th, the MCAA invites entries from across the industry to recognize outstanding achievements in safety practices and initiati

The Mason Contractors Association of America is thrilled to announce the opening of nominations for the prestigious Hall of Fame Award. From March 18th through April 30th, members of the masonry industry are invited to submit nominations to recognize outs

LAS VEGAS (February 27, 2024) — Westlake Royal Building ProductsTM (“Westlake Royal”), a Westlake company (NYSE:WLK) announces Oak Blend™, a captivating new colorway available across Dutch Quality Stone brand’s three distinct stone profiles:

Read all about how the Dignity Act can transform the Industry for the better.

On the surface, masonry cleaning may sound to some like a simple field of work with little change or progress. In reality, when it comes to masonry cleaning, some things have changed, and some have stayed the same.

When asked to write an article on creating a marketing plan and budget for mason contractors, my first thought was that I didn’t know many mason contractors do a lot of marketing.

Walk on the famous Brooklyn Bridge in a 3D environment.