Masonry Mortar: The Right Type for the Job
May 2025

When it comes to masonry construction, mortar is much more than “glue” that holds everything together — it’s a critical component of wall performance, longevity, and aesthetics. It can “make it or break it”. Whether you’re laying a foundation CMU wall or

How It’s Made: Clay Thin Brick
May 2025

Clay thin brick is a versatile alternative to traditional full brick. It comes in numerous colors and styles and offers something for every design preference. Thanks to the lighter weight, it is designed to reach spaces full brick cannot. From floors to c

Bonding with Masonry 2025: Q1
May 2025

This issue’s questions come from an Architect and a Mason Contractor. What questions do you have? Send them to info@masonrymagazine.com, attention Technical Talk. Q. An Architect asks how to create a narrow masonry pier between openings. Is there a min

American Treasure: Doak Campbell Stadium, Florida State University
May 2025

When you walk into Doak Campbell Stadium at Florida State University, the impact is immediate. It’s not just the roar of 79,000 fans or the iconic spear logo—it’s the walls themselves. Unlike most college football stadiums, which are built primarily of co

10 Tips and Tricks to Keep Masonry Looking Its Best
May 2025

Cleaning new masonry can be a challenge, but when done correctly, it enhances the natural beauty of brick, stone, or concrete surfaces and helps them stay in excellent condition for years. While post-constructi

Mast Climbing Work Platform Check List – Significant Seven
May 2025

Many MCAA members and Mast Climbing Work Platform equipment owners have been asking for a copy of a presentation completed by Hydro Mobile at Mid-Year 2022. The basis of the presentation is for owners and users of Mast Climbing Work Platforms to establish

Work Trucks Need Hard-working Tires
May 2025

Whatever you’re hauling, whatever job site you’re headed to, your work truck needs to be dependable. It’s a vital part of your livelihood. That’s why it’s important to check what holds your work truck up, namely the tires. Simply put, the right tires (alo

Youth Outreach and Education Arm Attends the 2025 Florida SkillsUSA Competition
May 2025

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA), in partnership with Florida Masonry Inc., proudly participated in the 2025 Florida SkillsUSA competition. This year’s masonry contest featured seven skilled student competitors and drew significant atte

Contractor Tip of the Month: Making Yourself Available for What Matters Most
May 2025

Your responsiveness is a key factor in achieving success in your career. Opportunities don’t wait, and neither do customers, employees, or critical decisions. Prioritizing accessibility, especially during pivotal moments, can be the difference between sec

Fechino Files: Differences
May 2025

I recently traveled to a city where I met with several contractors. After we talked a bit, several of the folks showed me around their places, and I saw two different ways of thinking based on the employees' personalities. I am sure you are wondering wher

Outreach Outlook: Building Tomorrow’s Masonry Workforce
May 2025

As the Region 2 Director for Youth Outreach and Education at the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA), my focus centers on strengthening our industry’s future by investing in education, mentorship, and strategic workforce initiatives. The vital

Building More: Are You Estimating, Or Paper Trading
May 2025

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

GEN NXT: Zyar Diehl
May 2025

Zyar Diehl is an apprentice from Maryland who is making his mark in the industry. After recently winning the Maryland State Skills Competition, he was gracious enough to sit down with the MCAA and talk about how he got started in the industry and where hi

What Is Biophilic Design?
April 2025

Biophilic design integrates natural elements into built spaces to fulfill our innate connection to nature. Rooted in the biophilia hypothesis, it goes beyond aesthetics, enhancing well-being, health and productivity. 5 Ways to Incorporate Biophilic Desig

One For The Ages - The 75th Midyear
April 2025

“One for the ages” this is how I would describe the upcoming midyear to anyone who has never attended or are undecided about attending MCAAs 75th Anniversary at The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island September 7-11 2025. In short “one for the ages” means so

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