Natural stone veneer is a durable, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing building material that has been used for centuries. It adds timeless beauty to masonry projects while offering structural integrity and resilience. But how does natural stone veneer

Early Development: The Genesis of Concrete Blocks (early Rome to 1900s) The history of concrete masonry units (CMUs) or concrete blocks begins with humanity’s earliest binding materials, notably the Romans’ remarkable concrete. Around AD 125, structures l

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Jeff Tew joins the show, along with MCAA President Jeff Buczkiewicz, to talk about where his passion for this industry started and what it's been like working on the Supplier side of the industry. An Excitin

As seasonal changes bring high winds and fluctuating temperatures, masonry projects face unique challenges. These conditions can stress vertical structures, requiring reliable bracing, while temperature swings may lead to a need for masonry restoration. A

Last August, I took my pickup to the dealership for a nagging check engine light. While it was being looked over, I chatted with the salesman I normally deal with, and he told me about the latest and greatest 2025 models. He told me how the twin turbo inl

For you long time members of the Mason Contractors Association of America you likely remember our Annual Washington, D.C. Fly-In where MCAA members from around the country would come to Washington, D.C. meeting with Members of Congress from their home sta

In construction, every project balances a delicate trio: coordination, precision, and timing. However, beyond blueprints and schedules, leadership demands something far greater—the ability to lead and make difficult decisions that shape the future of a co

Twenty years ago, I would have never thought cell phones would be such a crazy, over-the-top item that everyone has, but I guess I should have known better. When I was a kid, the Citizen Band Radio was a crazy fad. "Breaker-breaker 19," I bet you could he

I bet scheduling crews and dealing with people drives you crazy and keeps you up at night. When I speak at conventions, I often ask construction business owners and managers to tell me what their perfect business would be like. The common answer is a comp

From initial challenges as a newcomer to the rewarding experience of building structures, Ian Work’s story highlights the artistry and fulfillment found in masonry. Ian shares insights on what sets the masonry industry apart from others and encourages oth

Photos: Astalor, Bim, eyewave, Neil Bussey, ZICC, Alphotographic, David Boutin Photography, Orietta Gaspari The settings of films can take viewers to different parts of the world and immerse them in a different time period. From castles in the Scottish

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is proud to announce the formation of its new Outreach & Education Division, a strategic initiative designed to revitalize high school masonry training programs and cultivate the next generation of skill

On March 20th, the Texas Masonry Council celebrated its Hall of Fame Installation at the historic Alamo in San Antonio. This prestigious event brought together industry leaders and supporters to honor the achievements of individuals who have made signific

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Gary Joyner joins the set to talk about his extensive career in the industry, where his passion for the masonry industry started, and how he's been enjoying retirement. How It All Began Gary Joyner's entry

Central Avenue Elementary School is a project that the team here at Warfield Masonry completed in 2021. Located in Midland, Washington, the project involved the demolition and replacement of the original Central Avenue School built in 1949. The original e

The world of masonry is evolving with the implementation of new technologies. These advancements are reshaping how this craft is taught, learned, and executed by merging traditional techniques with modern innovation to develop skilled masons prepared to m