December 2012 Table of Contents

Words: Dan KamysTable of Contents

FEATURES

Fireplaces and Chimneys The masonry heater revealed: A Q&A with the president of the Masonry Heater Association of North America

Fireplaces and Chimneys How refractory mortar for masonry fireplace and chimney construction can be a wise choice

Scaffolding A look at why modular stages are on the rise

Waterproofing What you should know about using housewrap for masonry applications

cover

COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS From the Editor Chairman’s Message Government Affairs New Products Business Building Full Contact PM Classified Advertising News New Members MCAA Upcoming Education

Monadnock Building
August 2026

Chicago’s Monadnock Building doesn’t dominate the skyline the way it once did. Surrounded by steel-and-glass towers, the dark brick structure can seem almost understated. But for anyone in the masonry industry, it remains one of the most important buildin

Britt Stokes, Acme Brick’s Director of Marketing, Retires.
August 2026

Fort Worth, Texas – After faithfully serving Acme Brick Company for 40 years, Britt has chosen to retire – although he will still be involved with Acme on various projects. Britt began his career with Acme as staff photographer and through dedicati

Why SkillsUSA is the Keystone to MCAA’s Outreach
August 2026

When I stepped into the role of the MCAA’s first Director of Youth Outreach and Education, I knew we had a massive job ahead of us. I am a fourth-generation brick mason, and I have spent over two decades teaching the trade, from working with apprentices a

The First Paycheck
August 2026

Several years ago, Huntley Brothers hired a young apprentice. It was his first real job, and he had never had a paycheck before. Friday rolled around, and he got paid just like everyone else. Later that day, one of the guys told me something I have never