December 2013 Table of Contents

Words: Dan KamysTable of Contents

December 2013 Volume 52, Number 12

FEATURES

Fireplaces & Chimneys Remodeling an indoor fireplace without replacing masonry really can be done, and the result can be natural, complex and permanent.

Building Envelopes & Wraps Knowing the Unknown: John H. Koester offers insights on the ‘Ostrich Syndrome.’ Scaffolding Scaffolding industry veteran Justin Breithaupt discusses the project “tough spot” of the elevator shaft.		 masonry and construction information

COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS From The Editor Chairman’s Message Government Affairs New Products Federal Construction Full Contact PM News

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Natural Stone Ordering: Details Matter Before the Job Starts
October 2026

A lot of problems on a stone job can be traced back to the order. I’m on the supplier side, so I see it regularly. A mason can do everything right in the field and still end up fighting a job because the wrong material was ordered, quantities were off, c

Rob McKay
Resources
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Dust Mitigation in Masonry: Practical Strategies for Safer Job Sites
October 2026

Every day, masonry professionals cut block, grind mortar joints, core drill, mix dry materials, and demolish existing structures. These tasks are fundamental to the trade, but they also generate dust. While dust may seem like an unavoidable part of the jo

Greg Brown
Safety Library
Dust Extraction Systems Silica Safety Sponsored
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What Does That Marking Actually Mean?: Understanding the Standards Behind Your PPE
October 2026

Walk onto almost any masonry project, and you will see a variety of markings on personal protective equipment: Z87+, Type I, Type II, Class E, ANSI, and others. We recognize many of these markings and know they are important, but understanding exactly wha

Bethany Dailey
Safety Library
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TERRA Footwear Renews as a Silver Partner in 2027
October 2026

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is pleased to share that TERRA Footwear will renew as a Silver Partner in the 2027 Masonry Alliance Program.

MAP Partner
MAP Partner
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