December 2012 Table of Contents

Words: Dan KamysTable of Contents

December 2012 Volume 51, Number 12

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

Contractor Tip of the Month: Get Used to the Pain
April 2026

Pain isn’t just negative; it’s a natural part of growing and improving. Instead of seeing pain as a reason to quit, recognize it as a sign you’re making progress. What sets successful people apart is their ability to stay calm and keep going when things g

Damian Lang
Contractor Tip of the Month
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Fechino Files: Diesels Below 32 Degrees
April 2026

I am guessing that if you are reading this, then you experienced the cold, late-January spell that took over most of the country. The cold weather has many effects on the operations of a masonry contractor, from job shutdowns to equipment starting issues,

Steven Fechino
Fechino Files
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Outreach Outlook: Building Momentum Across the Southern Region
April 2026

As April arrives, the pace of our outreach and workforce efforts across the Southern Region reaches a new level of intensity. This is the time of year when our programs, partners, and state collaborators all accelerate at once. SkillsUSA competitions are

Conner Birdsong
Outreach Outlook
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Marvelous Masonry: Elbphilharmonie
April 2026

Most people know the Elbphilharmonie for its glass façade and dramatic roofline. From a distance, that’s what defines the skyline in Hamburg’s HafenCity district. But for masonry contractors and suppliers, the real story starts at the base.

Cass Stern
Marvelous Masonry
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