July 2009 Table of Contents

Words: Dan KamysTable of Contents

FEATURES

Tools of the Trade An inside look at the eclectic range of bricklayer’s tools hitting the market

How BIM Affects Masonry Construction Building Information Modeling is the representation of building information in a computer-readable form. Masonry looks at the benefits of this building method. Understanding Air and Vapor Barriers With moisture-related problems in both new construction and older buildings equally prevalent in the news, there is no doubt that air and vapor barriers should be a well-used and understood tool in a designer’s bag of tricks. MasonrySystems.org Exploring a Web site that motivates customers to design their next buildings with total masonry construction

COLUMNS & DEPARTMENTS For the Record President's Message Government Affairs Making The Grade New Products Full Contact Project Management Business Building Playing It Safe News Classified Advertising

Making Old Brickwork Look New Again
September 2026

Brickwork is built to last, but mortar isn’t. Over time, exposure to moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and everyday wear causes joints to crack, crumble, and even recede. What starts as a cosmetic issue can quickly turn into a structural concern if left unadd

Why Joint Profiles Matter In Masonry Restoration
September 2026

For generations, masonry structures have been defined not only by the brick, block, or stone used in construction, but also by the mortar joints that tie everything together. Whether restoring a historic brick facade, repairing natural stone veneer, or re

Designed for the Way Contractors Work Today
September 2026

Every piece of equipment tells a story about the challenges contractors face. For more than 30 years, the EZG Manufacturing team has listened to those stories—through customer relationships, job site visits, dealer feedback, a

Chemicals In Masonry
September 2026

Mason contractors must deal with chemicals on the job site. One of the main ones comes in the form of dust. Another is acid. From high-rise commercial structures to residential facades, masonry work involves handling raw materials that require careful man