I’m Sheryl Dentinger, wife of the current MCAA Chairman, Dick Dentinger. I started being a part of the MCAA conventions over 40 years ago, since Dick and I started dating. Bill Dentinger, my father-in-law, a legendary man, was chairman at the time we wer

Westlake Royal Building Products unveiled new products at the 2025 International Builders’ Show across their stone solutions brands, including launches from Versetta Stone, Eldorado Stone, Dutch Quality Stone, and StoneCraft.

If you own a business, planning what happens to it after you pass away is important. This is called "estate planning,” and it’s a way to make sure your assets are handled the way you want to help keep your business running smoothly. Why Business Owners N

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

Marketing for any type of business is one of the most crucial parts of operating a company. Sometimes the thought of marketing is overlooked because businesses are too focused on the operational aspects, but in reality, marketing is just as important. No

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

Innovation can come in the most unlikely of places, even in the masonry industry. Despite being one of the oldest trades, incremental innovation has allowed those tasked with building everlasting structures to stay more efficient and cost-effective than e

In February, the masonry industry was struck with the news of the passing of Fred Mason Jr, a well renowned masonry instructor at Columbus Career & College Academy and a person loved by everyone around him. Referred to by many as a top-tier instructor, Fr

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

Every employer should strive to maintain a good OSHA record. Not only are customers, insurers, and others increasingly scrutinizing employers’ OSHA records as a condition of doing business, but OSHA penalties and citations can be substantial—over $165,000

How masonry technology has evolved is maybe one of the most loaded questions you can ask. As we all know, masonry dates back before the pyramids. Speaking about the evolution of technology since then would be unfair, so I am going to stress the developmen

Steve Wheeler joins the MASONRY STRONG set to talk about how he was introduced to this industry, the art of selling, and his love of golf. A Career Built on Passion Steve Wheeler’s journey with EZG Manufacturing began over a decade ago. Reflecting on hi

Being a contractor is hard as there are lots of moving parts out of your control. On every job there are over 5,762 chances to make a mistake, miss a schedule, or tick off customers. Things aren’t perfect including plans, specifications, field conditions,

When a masonry jobsite is running smoothly, it’s a beautiful and inspiring demonstration of efficiency. Work flows without interruption, confusion, or hint of a delay. Each mason gets into a groove with zero waste of energy or muscle movement. Mortar i

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