We were all told as youth that winning isn't everything. I will put this statement right up there with Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. Winning is the only thing to be focused on when estimating. When I was a kid and early on in my career with my father

When it comes to building a more sustainable future, the construction and building materials sector has a lot of room for growth. According to the most recent data, construction and building-related emissions are responsible for 40% of greenhouse gas emis

Echelon Masonry, North America’s leader in architectural masonry products and materials, announces the availability of its newest product line of artisan masonry veneers, Ashton Brick, in select states. Combining a classic brick aesthetic with durable con

Spring is in the air, and summer is right around the corner. With that in mind, it’s time for all of us in the masonry industry to start preparing for warmer weather. It is very important that we consider the risks associated with working in the summer he

Jobsite Maintenance is not something that many people like to talk about. Most people want to know when the job is going to start. What is the lead time to get the material that is specified? Who is the general contractor, and are they good to deal with?

Natural stone veneer is a durable, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing building material that has been used for centuries. It adds timeless beauty to masonry projects while offering structural integrity and resilience. But how does natural stone veneer

Clay thin brick may be the single most versatile product currently on the market in the building materials industry. If you haven’t yet dabbled with installing it, give it a try! Not only is thin brick great for the DIY’er, but it is a smart selection for

The Brick Industry Association (BIA) has awarded the 2024 Brick in Architecture Awards, the leading international design competition featuring fired-clay brick. Now in its 35th year, the 2024 winning projects span the United States, Canada, China, Engl

Larry Vacala joins the MASONRY STRONG Podcast to talk about his incredible journey in the masonry industry, what it's been like to see the industry change over the years, and where he sees the industry heading in the future. Larry's Beginnings in the Mas

The rhythmic clink of trowels, the precise placement of bricks, the transformation of raw materials into enduring structures – masonry is both an art and a science. Yet, in today's fast-paced construction landscape, even the most skilled masons face chall

Architectural cast stone has long served as a cornerstone of American commercial, residential, and hardscape construction, blending timeless aesthetics with modern engineering. Defined by its capacity to replicate natural stone with unmatched precision, c

Spring is a weird bid season. Estimates are coming in all over the place. It seems like everyone has tightened their belts to land what they can as we come out of the election cycle slowdown. We are no exception. Lowering margins is a temporary solution,

Brick’s versatility has made it an architectural staple for centuries, adapting to the evolving trends, demands and challenges of the building industry. In 2025, modern advancements in brick continue to influence the way architects, designers and builders

PART 1 Item 1: Brick Veneer Cavity Wall Over Stud Framing There is a large contingent in the marketplace that will suggest that brick veneer over stud framing—the typical cavity wall construction (considered to be the “perfect wall”)—has little or no impa

Manufactured stone veneer (MSV) is a popular material for creating stunning walls in residential new builds, remodels, and commercial projects. For masons, understanding the nuances of working with MSV can greatly impact the final look of a project, where

The Masonry Advisory Council held the 2024 Excellence in Masonry Awards on Saturday, October 26th at 167 Green St., Chicago, Illinois. Honoring 80 projects from over the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana Area. The Awards program celebrates outstanding ar