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

Four Home Design Trends Driving Masonry Demand in 2026
July 2026

As design trends continue to evolve, one theme remains consistent throughout 2026: homeowners want spaces that feel intentional, comfortable and enduring. According to Westlake Royal Building Products’ TrendLine platform, today's most influential trends e

The Modern Masonry Saw: Safety, Efficiency, and Smarter Cutting
July 2026

Masonry is a craft built on precision, strength, and durability. At the heart of every successful masonry project is one essential tool: the masonry saw. As technology evolves, so does the role of the saw on the jobsite. Today’s contractors are not just l

Getting the Finish Right on Burnished CMU
July 2026

The wall is complete. The lines are crisp. The coursing is tight, and the burnished CMU delivers exactly the refined appearance the design team envisioned. After weeks of coordination and careful installation, the project is final

Argo Community High School Performing Arts Center
July 2026

Argo Community High School is located in Summit, Illinois, just southwest of Chicago’s Midway Airport. In 2016, the Argo Community High School Board of Education and the school’s administration undertook the construction of a new performing