A Greener Future Through Masonry
April 2025

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

Contractor Tip of the Month: Less is More - How Silence Can Help You Close More Sales
March 2025

Sales is an art as much as it is a science. It is not just about knowing your products inside and out but also understanding the customer’s mindset. Striking the right balance between listening, speaking, and knowing when to stay silent can make or break

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 13 Recap: Mason Hill, Vice President at Hill Masonry, Inc
February 2025

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Mason Hill joins the set to dive into his journey in the masonry industry. Where he started, how his passion grew, and where he sees the industry going. Family Business Dynamics Running a family business li

Passing the Trowel: Karl Bergamo
January 2025

At 89 years old, Karl Bergamo is a living testament to the enduring strength and timelessness of the masonry profession. With nearly seven decades of experience in the trade and learning from the best (including WW2 Veterans), Bergamo has seen the industr

Hands-on Learning at the University of Memphis
December 2024

One of the biggest technical challenges for architecture students is understanding how to draw proper wall sections, especially with rainscreen technology. After more than 15 years of teaching, I have found that when students build full scale, with real m

Marvelous Masonry: Buda Castle
December 2024

Buda Castle, perched majestically atop Castle Hill in Budapest, Hungary, is one of Europe’s most iconic fortresses. This historical gem tells the story of Hungarian royalty and national heritage and showcases centuries of evolving masonry craftsmanship. F

Zeppos Residential College at Vanderbilt University
December 2024

Zeppos Residential College at Vanderbilt University is a stunning example of modern collegiate Gothic architecture. It is a functional living and learning space and a beacon of craftsmanship in masonry construction. Completed in 2020, this $115 million pr

Vibing Masonry #3: Masonry and its Influence on Town & City Master Planning
November 2024

Masonry has greatly influenced urban planning and development for centuries, shaping the architecture and resilience of cities worldwide. Comprising brick, stone, and concrete (out of scope material) masonry units (CMUs), masonry materials have not only p

Enhancing Masonry Precision: A Look at Cross-Industry Collaboration
November 2024

In the world of masonry, precision and quality are non-negotiable. Contractors are constantly seeking tools and materials that not only meet but exceed their expectations. This pursuit has led to exciting advancements in product collaboration, notably bet

Cost Management and Efficiency in Masonry Projects
November 2024

With masonry being a piece count trade, the more units that are laid in the field that surpass the quantity figured in the estimate, the more profit that is made. Masonry crews in the field need a good foreman that is capable of organizing the crew, posit

Marvelous Masonry: Basílica de la Sagrada Família
November 2024

The Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, one of the most renowned architectural landmarks in the world, stands as a masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí's vision and a remarkable example of how masonry techniques have evolved over time. The construct

The GT30: A Block Laying Robot by Shanghai Intelligent Masonry Technology
October 2024

China is the world's largest construction market and the largest producer and user of various types of building blocks (AAC blocks, hollow concrete blocks, porous clay sintered blocks, etc.). According to industry association statist

Contractor Tip of the Month: Filtering the Noise So You Can Focus on Success
October 2024

No matter your professional or personal goals, there will always be perpetual pessimists who doubt you will be successful. And it is not always your competitors or perceived enemies. Sometimes it is your best friend, trusted mentor, or even a business ido

Chairman's Message: Everything, Everywhere...and All At Once
October 2024

Once upon a time, long ago, when I was selling radio advertising, there was always an emphasis on the importance of keeping our ad copy efficient, attention-grabbing, and hopefully loaded with staying power. Advertisers know customers are busy and ad budg

Spherical Block LLC: New Ways to Build with Masonry
September 2024

Spherical Block LLC is launching a revolution in advanced masonry technology. Roofs are made as arches and domes from concrete block, using efficient methods of assembly and green materials to make beautiful masonry structures. The company’s new products

Lessons Learned from Architectural Lunch-N-Learns: The Advantages of CMU
August 2024

Over the past few years, Lunch-N-Learns have become an invaluable platform for bridging gaps between architects and the masonry industry. These workshops have allowed block manufacturers to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and collaborate on innovativ