Masonry Magazine July 1977 Page. 32
WE STILL MAKE THEM THE WAY WE USED TO. BY HAND.
Today's architects still call on the same masonry craft skills that architects and master builders of 200- and 2,000-years ago relied on. For masonry is still the best way to build. Still the least expensive.
The mechanics of creating walls with mortar and brick, or block, or stone, have changed little. But technology in the production of masonry materials as well as on-site automation of materials handling have changed enough to maintain masonry's reputation: it's stingy with the tightest budget. In fact, masonry structures are usually lowest in initial cost. Consistently low in operating costs.
Masonry materials have taken on new dimensions, new colors, new textures. And innovative design has demanded parallel innovations to execute them. Masonry panels afford the architect design flexibility not known before while still assuring unparalleled craftsmanship. Loadbearing masonry systems permit fast, economical construction and afford the designer a broader palette.
The reasons for masonry's ageless popularity are many. Permanence. Beauty. Flexibility. And economy. There is simply no more energy-efficient, durable, easily maintained building material known to man.
So it's no wonder we're still making them the way we used to. The trowel is still one of the building designer's handiest tools.
INTERNATIONAL MASONRY INSTITUTE
IMI Suite 1001, 823 15th St., N.W..
Washington, D.C. 20005, (202) 783-3908
The Mason Contractors and Bricklayers Union of the USA & Canada.
General Studies/CIRC S.U.N.Y. Agricultural & Technical College, Delhi, N.Y.
William A. Hall & Assoc., Architecture & Planning.