Pro Masonry Guide, December 2017/January 2018, Leslie Proctor, Art Director by Graphic Design by Leslie

PRO MASONRY GUIDE

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DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018

EDUCATING OUR FUTURE

MASONS IN THIS ISSUE: MIXERS, PUMPS AND DELIVERY SYSTEMS INNOVATION IN MASONRY SAWS MAST CLIMBER REGULATION ProMasonryGuide.com

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9 Mast Climber

LVL

PRO MASONRY GUIDE

Policy Change

Solid Sawn

OSHA’s policy change contains regulatory requirements important to users of mast climbing work platforms.

DI65 OSHA Pine

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13 The Masonry Material

EDUCATING OUR FUTURE

Production and Delivery Chain

MASONS

Configurations for storing and mixing mortars and grouts on the job

IN THIS ISSUE: MIXERS, PUMPS AND DELIVERY SYSTEMS

16 6 Things to Look for

INNOVATION IN MASONRY SAWS MAST CLIMBER REGULATION

in a Mixer

Advice on what to look for in a mixer and other mixer guidance for the mason contractor

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20 Innovations in

Masonry Saws

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On The Cover

Shown on the cover is Chandler Ellis, a masonry graduate and second-year preservation student at the Maine School of Masonry.

Masonry saw designs continue to evolve as power meets function, both corded and uncorded.

23 Rebuilding a Labor Force

Educating our masons to keep a future masonry workforce thriving is important today.

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I’ve Learned 28 What Tennessee-based mason Jason Peek

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7 News and Updates 8 Product Spotlights

20 ProMasonryGuide.com

18 World of Concrete Preview

Pro Masonry Guide//DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018

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FROMTHEEDITOR

alk to any mason you know, and you’ll hear the same proud story of how he loves working with his hands and building structures that will be left standing for generations. In fact, he may be part of a generation of masons – another moment of pride. As we know, careers in masonry are not always encouraged by our country’s educators, at least, not to the degree they once were. But that tide may be slowly turning. Recently, a law went into effect in Colorado stating that students must be told about skilled labor and military careers, according to a Denver Post article (August 2017). That’s right, Colorado public school counselors must inform high school students that not all post-secondary paths lead to college. Phil Covarrubias, a Brighton, Colo., Republican and owner of an excavation company, sponsored House Bill 1041. Covarrubias says a four-year college degree may work for some, but students should understand the great opportunity that exists in trade schools and through military service. Those opportunities do not require the high and rising costs of university tuitions. The bill requires that each student’s “Individual Career and Academic Plan” include information about the various career pathways available to them, and the types of certificates and jobs to which each pathway leads, according to the Post. The law is designed to help reintroduce skilled trades to high school students who can gain exposure to goodpaying jobs upon graduation, says Covarrubias. In 2015, a Deloitte survey revealed that eight of 10 manufacturing executives said expanding the skills gap would affect their ability to keep up with customer demand. The survey also showed that it took an average of more than three months to recruit skilled laborers. The Post stated that, after a drop from 2009 to 2012, enrollment in career and technical education courses has surged in Colorado, with more than 125,000 high schoolers and 20,000 middle schoolers enrolling in 2015. Officials say many are drawn by the prospects of landing a steady, high-paying job right out

of high school while avoiding high college debt. According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median pay for masonry workers in 2016 was $41,330 per year. Employment of masonry workers is projected to grow by 12 percent from 2016 to 2026, says the BLS, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Population growth will require the construction of more schools, hospitals, homes and other buildings. Workers with experience in construction could have the best job opportunities. A career in masonry seems to finally be getting the recognition it deserves, but we’ve a lot of work left to do. In this issue, we examine efforts in different areas of the country in “Rebuilding a Labor Force” (p. 23). The article discusses the growing demand for and shrinking labor pool of masons, the decline and revival of career technical education, and the efforts by community colleges and tech schools. We hope to see a continuation of this masonry education movement, and a strong future for our next generations of masons. Sincerely,

Jennifer A. Morrell

What have you learned? Pro Masonry Guide wants to share your story. Email Jennifer Morrell at jmorrell@SilverLakeMediaGroup.com.

For questions or comments, contact Pro Masonry Guide at 951.262.3688 or info@SilverLakeMediaGroup.com Publisher Kevin Kilpatrick, 770.615.3585 or Kilpatrick@SilverLakeMediaGroup.com Executive Editor Jennifer Morrell, 770.402.7142 or JMorrell@SilverLakeMediaGroup.com Vice President of Business Operations and Marketing Beth Wills, 678.662.6703 or Beth@SilverLakeMediaGroup.com Art Director Leslie Proctor, ArtDirector@SilverLakeMediaGroup.com For editorial opportunities, contact Jennifer Morrell, Executive Editor, at 770.402.7142 or JMorrell@SilverLakeMediaGroup.com For advertising opportunities, contact Dan Tomkiewicz at 770-640-1681 or Dan@SilverLakeMediaGroup.com Silver Lake Media Group 3162 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 260-943, Marietta, GA 30062 ©2017 Silver Lake Media Group. All rights reserved. Pro Masonry Guide is published by Silver Lake Media Group, LLC, and The Cloud Peak Firm.

Notes to the reader: Due to differing conditions, tools and individual skills, Silver Lake Media Group and The Cloud Peak Firm assume no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered or losses incurred as the result of following the information published in this magazine. Before beginning any work, review all instructions carefully, and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary across the country, check with local authorities to ensure the work complies with all current codes and regulations. Always read and observe all safety precautions provided by manufacturers of any tools, equipment or supplies, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

Jennifer A. Morrell is an editor, journalist and publishing veteran with more than 20 years of experience. She has spent more than 15 years covering the areas of construction and development. Contact Jennifer with your questions or comments at JMorrell@SilverLakeMediaGroup.com.

MASON CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

ProMasonryGuide.com

Pro Masonry Guide//DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018

TROWEL

TALK Mentoring: My Path to Masonry By Jim Doane

was never supposed to be a mason. Through my high school years, I wanted to become an architect. I excelled in drafting classes and was accepted to the University of Florida through an architectural scholarship. Halfway through my senior year in high school, I found myself with family problems at home and needed an afterschool and weekend job quickly. That week, Mike and Tony Pinard, two brothers in one of my drafting classes, asked me if I would like to help their family by doing laboring work for the masons in their father’s company, All American Masonry. It was time for Mike and Tony to start laying brick and progress forward from mason tenders to masons. I agreed, and they gave me directions to the jobsite. My first day on a construction jobsite ever was that weekend. I arrived at a brick house being built that was almost complete. I saw 600 bricks at the street, mortar and a wheelbarrow.

I also saw one mason with his tools, who said to me, “I guess they stuck me with the green laborer today to build this brick mailbox. Just my luck.” A few minutes later, he was barking orders. I learned his name was Richard Shaffer. He was a union mason form up north who also was a building inspector for the city. He worked on the weekends for the Pinards, simply because he stilled enjoyed masonry work. Richard went on to introduce me to the world of masonry and become my mentor. I was full of questions that day as I could not figure out – being from a drafting world – how someone could take 600 bricks and create this amazing mailbox with two planters and a round top, without ever seeing a set of blueprints. I was inspired. I wanted to be able to do what Richard had just done that day. During the weeks and months that followed, he started advising me on the aspects of being a productive masonry tender. This required thinking ahead to determine how much more material the mason would need to finish a wall. It also meant learning the proper consistency of mortar and how it relates to productivity on the Shown is project by Jimbo’s Creative Masonry, a bronze medallion honoring fallen Florida jobsite. I learned to start officer, Scott Pine.

DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018 //Pro Masonry Guide

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a little early to get ahead of the masons to make my job a little bit easier. I was eager to absorb his knowledge quickly and soon realized that drawing circles and squares on a sheet of paper in an office all day was no longer of interest to me. Working outside, creating something with my hands, using the skills I had acquired through hard work, learning a trade, and then standing proud of what I’d created: That became the life for me. The constructive guidance and positive reinforcements from my mentor, Richard, taught me to solve challenges and problems. I was able to advance quickly, gaining the skills to becoming a great mason and building a lifelong, successful career in masonry. The high school in my area did not offer a masonry class in the early-‘80s. I learned, instead, from one mason who, stuck with me on a Saturday afternoon, noticed there was actually hope for me with some proper guidance. I have found now that in life, it is rewarding to help others start in the masonry world by giving advice and sharing the skills I have learned. I encourage all masons to be mentors and make a difference through the world of masonry.

Jim Doane is mason contractor based in Sanford, Fla., who offers high-end, creative, custom masonry with a crew of fewer than five. He can be contacted at www.jimboscreativemasonry.com.

Pro Masonry Guide//DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018

Advanced Moisture Management Solutions The Advanced Advanced Building Building Products Products integrated integrated system system The of moisture moisture management management solutions solutions features features of products specifically specifically designed designed to to protect protect your your products investment for for years years to to come. come. investment

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QUIKRETE LAUNCHES QUIKCHAT TOOL // QUIKRETE has introduced QUIKChat, a live website customer engagement tool that offers thorough, real-time response to inquiries. The tool is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is located at the bottom right-hand corner of every page of the company website, www.QUIKRETE.com. QUIKChat connects customers with trained agents who answer specific product and project questions. Eighty percent of customer inquiries are resolved during the initial interaction with an agent. The tool also will intuitively offer assistance to visitors navigating the QUIKRETE website for an extended time.

NEW LOOK FOR NCMCA // The North Carolina Masonry Contractors Association (NCMCA) has a new look. The association’s board of directors voted at their fall meeting to adopt a new logo, designed by Jeffrey Dale of Cary, N.C. Dale describes the new look as a brand that is strong and meaningful. “Modern lettering conveys new life, next generation leaders, and growth of an association, which is recognized on the national and international stage as a leader in the masonry industry,” he says. “The trowel symbolizes the history and individuals who provided the foundation for an association, which set the standard for the masonry industry. The trowel also serves as a bridge connecting the foundation’s history to the industry of tomorrow.” NCMCA Regional VPs Doug Burton and Brandon Hartsell co-chair the rebranding committee, and the new logo was phased in during the fall.

KEENE BUILDING EXPANDS FACILITY // Keene Building Products is expanding its Euclid, Ohio, manufacturing facility. The industrial complex’s 11 acres allows room for expansion to create more available space for products, due to continuing growth of the company. Future plans include a new 25,000-square-foot manufacturing facility made entirely out of steel. The expansion broke ground in September to be completed by January. CEO Jim Keene is grateful to have a chance to make a difference with the expansion and to bring jobs back to the area.

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DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018 //Pro Masonry Guide

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CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY ADDS 11,000 JOBS IN OCTOBER

LATICRETE HIRES MAHEU AS NORTH AMERICA DIRECTOR, PRODUCT MANAGEMENT

// Construction employment increased by 11,000 jobs in October to the highest level in nine years, while the industry's unemployment rate fell to 4.5 percent, the lowest October rate since 2006, says the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials say that, while hurricane recovery work may have helped boost employment in the sector, most of the gains are occurring because of strong demand for many types of private-sector projects across much of the country. Construction officials note that construction firms continue to expand to keep pace with growing private-sector demand for construction. They caution that public-sector investments in infrastructure and other construction projects are down for the year, and urge Congress to include new infrastructure funding as part of any final tax reform measure. Officials add that Congress needs to ensure that passthrough businesses, including the majority of construction firms, benefit from tax reform.

// LATICRETE has hired Spencer Maheu as the North America director, product management. Maheu will supervise the LATICRETE team of product managers in driving new product innovation across the North America region through the continued development and diversification of the company’s integrated marketing communications. He comes to LATICRETE from Osborn International, a division of Jason Industries, where he led the product management, marketing and business development teams. Prior to working at Osborn, Maheu led product development teams at Stanley Black & Decker.

ProMasonryGuide.com

Pro Masonry Guide//DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018

PRODUCT

MAST CLIMBERS AND TELEHANDLERS

SPOTLIGHTS

New Policy Change for Mast Climber Materials Hoists OSHA’s policy change contains regulatory requirements important to users and owners of mast climbing work platforms.

Milwaukee Lighting Portfolio The AAA-battery powered Milwaukee penlight and headlamp provide performance, light quality, and durability for any customer. Also look for Milwaukee’s USB rechargeable lights: The USB Rechargeable 700L Flashlight, USB Rechargeable Hard Hat Headlamp, and USB Rechargeable ROVER Pocket Flood Light. All three are powered by the new REDLITHIUM USB battery, delivering all-day runtime, more than 2,000 charges and 3X faster charging.

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AZ Hand Trucks Heavy-duty hand trucks by AZ Hand Trucks are constructed with a patented foot brake, letting users tilt back hefty loads effortlessly. Loads from 1,000 to 2,000 pounds can be transported relatively easily. The foot brake allows workers to safely and efficiently handle bulky or awkward items.

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ScaffoldMart HD LamPlank 2.0e HD LamPlank 2.0e is laminate veneer lumber (LVL) physically tested with a Metriguard 7200 HCLT, an expensive alternative to acoustic testing. Features include scarfed face joints for a smooth, flat working surface and eased edges for splinter-free handling. This product meets OSHA and ANSI standards, with each board individually proof tested. Custom printing and lengths are available. Width choices are 9.25, 9.5 and 11.25 inches.

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RIDGID Masonry Trowels The solid shank through handle design of RIDGID’s fully forged masonry trowels offers durability and a long tool life. Each trowel is fully forged from a single piece of high-carbon steel for extra strength. Each trowel’s strike surface is also steel, preventing cracks and breaks. All RIDGID trowels have flexible taper ground blades, minimizing surface gauging and accidental marks. RIDGID trowels are corrosion resistant and easy to clean. Ridgid.com

Hohmann & Barnard’s Thermal Brick Support, a brick veneer support system, reduces thermal bridging in relief angles to improve the energy efficiency buildings. This bracket system features job-specific engineering to move the relief angle away from the wall, allowing for continuous insulation behind, and further increasing energy efficiency and reducing labor costs. The system adjusts in multiple directions to accommodate construction tolerances.

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Keene’s Viper Vent, a patented, lightweight ridge vent, has a doubledensity edge that offers strength and rigidity, ensuring its ability to maintain a sleek finished look that makes it virtually invisible. Viper Vent gives 15 square inches of net-free vent area per linear foot. Its filter, manufactured with extra-thick fibers, is UV resistant. It is available in five versions and able to be applied on asphalt, wood, tile, metal or slate roofs.

Dependable’s Skimflow LCB is a gypsum-based, self-leveling underlayment designed for use directly over wood. The product is reinforced with fibers for performance over flexible substrates. Skimflow LCB can be poured directly over wood without mechanical reinforcement, offering a quick dry, smooth surface for approved floor coverings. Skimflow LCB is suitable for plywood and gypsum subfloors with effective flexural strength and heal.

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DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018 //Pro Masonry Guide

Hohmann & Barnard Thermal Brick Support

Little Giant The HyperLite SumoStance The HyperLite SumoStance features Little Giant’s patented leveling outrigger system, which more than doubles the ladder’s base width and increases side-tip stability by up to 600 percent. The SumoStance’s intuitive safety features help ensure a safe, stable setup on almost any surface. Plus, it’s extremely lightweight. The ladder includes a side-to-side bubble level and front-to-back angle indicator in addition to a side-mounted, dual-pulley system. Wide rungs reduce foot fatigue.

LittleGiantLadder.com ProMasonryGuide.com

By Kevin O’Shea

n July 3, 2017, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced a policy change on Monorail Hoists in Construction, which excludes monorail hoists from the requirements of Subpart CC – Cranes and Derricks in Construction, as long as employers meet other OSHA requirements. The mast climber industry is delighted with the policy change, and it contains extremely important regulatory requirements of which users and owners of mast climbing work platforms need to be aware, and with which they should comply. When OSHA released Subpart CC – Cranes and Derricks in Construction in late-2010, the industry was faced with a challenge. The “material lifting device,” which is mounted on a mast climbing work platform, qualified as a crane under the standard (OSHA Letter of Interpretation July 8, 2011, Jim Maddux). This had serious consequences for owners and users of mast climbing work platforms who use material lifting devices. The new OSHA rule effectively meant that when the Operator Certification section became law, all current and future owners and users would be unqualified to operate mast climber material lifting devices and, alarmingly, would have no method or path to achieve qualification. The requirement for Operator Certification to a nationally recognized scheme, currently deferred until late-2018, provided no route for the mast climber industry to achieve compliance. This potentially banned the use of material lifting equipment designed to improve safety and productivity. The industry has been working to resolve this issue since 2011.

A path toward resolution Members of the mast climber industry called three large crane operator training groups in an attempt to obtain operator training for a mast climber material lifting device, or “crane” as it was now designated. All three entities responded alike, indicating that “no training courses are available, because it isn’t a crane." Additionally, because of the limited number of units in the field, it was highly unlikely that demand would stimulate a rethink from nationally accredited crane training entities or industry organizations, since the commercial element to the training was unattractive. This left the mast climber industry in a dilemma. The industry would have no way to train owners and users. The mast climber industry's position would place the responsibility on the employer to obtain qualification for operators. By providing this qualification ProMasonryGuide.com

OSHA’s policy change has made it possible to train and certify operators to masonry industry standards, which is a win for mason contractors.

through industry and manufacturer-driven training, both appropriate training and compliance to commonly held industry standards would be achieved. But this achievement seemed a million miles away from reality. After listening to the issues, OSHA considered the challenges faced by the mast climber industry and other affected industries, and announced a policy change on July 3.

OSHA’s policy change on monorail hoists in construction The new policy dictates that the agency will not cite employers for failing to meet the requirements of Subpart CC, if they meet the requirements of the overhead hoists and general training standards. The general industry requirements for monorail hoists do remain intact. Dean McKenzie, director of OSHA’s Directorate of Construction, said the enforcement policy is “a commonsense approach to addressing industry concerns while also ensuring workers are protected.” Pro Masonry Guide//DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018

MAST CLIMBERS AND TELEHANDLERS For construction applications, employers need to consult and comply with the following.

Compliance with 29 CFR 1926.554 (Overhead Hoists) is necessary: ● ● The safe working load of the overhead hoist, as determined by the manufacturer, shall be indicated on the hoist, and this safe working load shall not be exceeded. ● ● The supporting structure to which the hoist is attached shall have a safe working load equal to that of the hoist. ● ● The support shall be arranged so as to provide for free movement of the hoist and shall not restrict the hoist from lining itself up with the load. ● ● The hoist shall be installed only in locations that will permit the operator to stand clear of the load at all times. ● ● All overhead hoists in use shall meet the applicable requirements for construction, design, installation, testing, inspection, maintenance and operation, as prescribed by the manufacturer. ● ● Operators required to be trained in accordance with 29 CFR 1926.21: » » The employer should avail himself of the safety and health training programs the Secretary [OSHA] provides.

4 Things to Consider for Continuous Climbers

» » The employer shall instruct each employee in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the regulations applicable to his work environment to control or eliminate any hazards or other exposure to illness or injury. ● ● The employer has determined that each operator is qualified to operate the hoisting system per 29 CFR 1926.20(b)(4): » » The employer shall permit only those employees qualified by training or experience to operate equipment and machinery. ● ● When monorail hoists are mounted on a mast climber, the employer must also comply with all other OSHA requirements that are applicable to the equipment and structure: » » 1926.450 (Subpart L, Scaffolds) would apply here, for example. Employers will find regulations relating to stability, erecting, dismantling, alteration, etc. » » 1926 Subpart M (Fall Protection). ● ● Should an employer fail to comply fully with the above, the crane standard would apply.

The importance of the policy change OSHA's definition of a “crane” from the 2010 Crane Regulations had a potentially serious consequence for the mast climber industry. The Operator Certification requirement in the regulations, due to become enforced in November 2018, would have created a situation whereby owners and users of material lifting devices on mast climbers would not be qualified to operate them. There would have been no way to achieve qualification/certification. This policy change by OSHA recognizes the challenges faced by our industry and other affected industries, and has now made it possible to train and certify operators to our own industry standards. Our industry is grateful to OSHA for its consideration and action.

Kevin O’Shea is Director of Safety and Training for Hydro Mobile and is an internationally recognized expert in the powered access industry. With 30 years of experience in rental, manufacturing, safety and training, he also is a representative of three not-for-profit organizations, is involved in industry design committees, and is the recipient of a number of industry awards. Contact him at kevin.oshea@ hydro-mobile.com.

Owners and users who need compliance assistance are directed to the following for advice and resources: n Scaffold and Access Industry Association,

SAIAonline.org n International Powered Access Federation, IPAF.org n Mason Contractors Association of America,

MasonContractors.org

DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018 //Pro Masonry Guide

ProMasonryGuide.com

By Jennifer Morrell

hether you are using a mast climber, continuous climber or telehandler, you should be aware of safety aspects that come along with the job. To learn more about the correct usage and safety considerations of continuous climbers, Pro Masonry Guide sat down with Jerry Castle, president and owner of Elk Grove Village, Ill.-based Bennu Parts and Service. Following

is what he had to say. PMG: How do you approach training with your customers? Castle: We provide a PowerPoint visual presentation along with a reference manual for the customer to follow along. We also have equipment on site for a hands-on demonstration. With a power unit on site, we can identify the points we are making in real time. We send a qualified trainer out to the client’s place of business to show them how to set up our equipment and to go over all of the details of what they’ve bought. If a person hasn’t had Bennu scaffolding training, we provide it, including the proper use of smart bars and wall ties hooked up to the tower to show where and how they function. PMG: The Hispanic community is a significant part of the masonry labor force. How do you handle communication and/or the language barrier? Castle: We ensure that we provide bilingual speakers and allow for translation when needed. Even if it makes the session go longer, we allow more time to accommodate our Spanish-speaking customers who do not speak English fluently.

Shown is the Bennu Series 3 Mast Climber.

PMG: Where do you stand, regarding continuous climber safety and regulations? Castle: During our training, we encourage a commitment of ongoing safety and training. Some people who have entered the workforce more recently may not be trained for the jobsite, so we do our part to emphasize to the owner the safe use of equipment and accessories. Safety first: The owner and workers must be reminded of it. The accessories we provide for scaffolding are developed to allow a safer approach. PMG: What makes your continuous climber product different? Castle: We have three important safety features in our scaffolding drive system. Our advanced design features a planetary gear box with a hydraulic disc brake and motor with a climbing wheel that rolls smoothly up the mast and onto each step. In between those we have a spring-loaded safety locking system (Safety Dog) that is always in operation and a counterbalance valve that will lock the hydraulics and prevent any movement, if a hose were to break. The scaffolding platform is self-leveling and ascends level at full climbing speed with synchronization during the elevation, a unique feature that took many years to develop and several engineers to perfect the design.

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MIXERS, PUMPS AND DELIVERY SYSTEMS

Masonry Material Production and Delivery: The Chain The big white silo and orange mortar mixer are a classic combo, but by no means is this the only possible configuration. By Todd Ferguson

D LIKE YOUR WORK, WA R R A N T Y

IT’S BUILT

TO LAST HANDLE STRIKE SURFACE

Forged steel handle cap won’t crack or break like plastic handle caps

DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018 //Pro Masonry Guide

FULLY FORGED SOLID SHANK THROUGH HANDLE DESIGN

riving past or working on just about any construction site in the United States, what will you usually see on the other side of the fence? If the project involves masonry construction, it’s a safe bet you’ll see the familiar, big white silo and orange mortar mixer together on the job. It is a classic combo, like burgers and fries or thunder and lightning. This is a popular way to store and mix mortars and grouts on the job, but by no means is it the only configuration that is possible. The silo system is often provided with pre-blended bulk bags of masonry materials. Although a silo mixer seems like a large piece of equipment, it only takes up a small area – about 8 X 8 feet. This small footprint makes the silo an ideal choice for work in concentrated urban areas or any project with space limitations. Silos are used on large commercial jobs and smaller jobs as well. Benefits of silo systems can apply to any size job if contractors have a telehandler or large skid steer to load material. Contactors load these silos with bulk bags of materials pre-mixed to specific compressive strengths. They are available in capacities from 15 tons (10 super sacks) to 36 tons. Some designs are fully enclosed to help keep material dry and reduce freezing in cold climates. Silos, as opposed to batching by hand or other manual processes, reduce a lot of material waste. Batching by hand with bulk sands and cements is not nearly as efficient, since some materials are left on the ground when shoveling and transferring from piles to mixers. Use of silos with pre-made dry materials ensures the consistency of the mix design while reducing contractor liability for batching to the right compressive strength.

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A masonry mixer is positioned under a silo. ProMasonryGuide.com

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Shown is a continuous mixer.

The most common mixers used with the silos have a range of power options and capacities. You will often see the larger capacity mixers with standard gasoline engines used in the United States. Traditional mortar mixers that you would see pulled behind a truck by a mason are in the 6- to 8-cubic-foot range. But, under a silo system, the larger 12-cubic-foot capacity or larger mixers are most common. These mixers will have telescoping legs to offer the versatility of variable dumping or loading heights. They offer the ability to mix larger aggregates in the concrete or grout than the typical mortar mixer. Contractors can process up to 1-inch aggregates in the material, which is more than the typical ½-inch aggregates used in coarse masonry grouts. Controlling water content is easy, especially with optional water bars and water meters available from the manufacturers. The silo and mixer combination is great for storing bulk materials and mixing on site. You can mix mortar and deliver it to a trough or delivery system, but what if you want a configuration to mix and pump on the jobsite? Take that same silo and mixer and try to dump into a grout pump, and you may have a challenge on your hands. The mixers are typically used at a low leg setting under the silo. But when loading into a grout or concrete pump, the telescoping legs would have to be raised on the mixer to allow the mixer to dump into the pump hopper. No problem, right? But what about clearance under the silo? Now the silo may have to be raised up as well to let the mixer dump into the pump. It is possible, but another configuration of the silo offers a simpler solution: combining silo with a continuous mixer. This type of mixer attaches to the common 10-bag capacity silo system and features a highly advanced auger mechanism with paddles and agitators to ensure thorough mixing of the pre-blended materials. Pro Masonry Guide//DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018

MIXERS, PUMPS AND DELIVERY SYSTEMS Hydration is controlled by connecting a pressurized water source with a common 1-inch hose and standard GHT connection. Or, if only water tanks are available on the job, the mixer offers a means of siphoning water from the water tank. In addition, the output of the mixers range from 3 to 7 cubic yards per hour, making the mixer higher in production than a mortar mixer. Comparing the max capacity of the largest mortar mixer to the continuous mixer output reveals the difference in output. We have to remember that bag capacity is more important than the mortar mixer drum capacity in cubic feet or yards. The largest mortar mixers have up to seven bags capacity. Based on an 80-pound bag of core fill grout, that comes out to about 6 cubic feet. Assume we can make four batches in that mixer per hour, and you have just under 1 yard per hour of production. By contrast the continuous mixer outputs 3 to 7 cubic yards per hour. The continuous mixer is faster and even allows coarse aggregates in the mix. Best of all, the continuous mixer provides a direct link between the dry material and the concrete pump. Clearance height is no longer an issue, because the continuous mixer has a very narrow profile and connects directly to the bottom discharge of the silo at a perfect height to pour into any concrete pump. Contractors can select the concrete pump/grout pump that provides the compatible output for the continuous mixer. There is no need to back in a large 50-yard concrete line pump under the continuous mixer; it has output far beyond what the continuous mixer can handle. Instead, masonry grout pumps are available in the same output range as the mixer, at about 10 yards per hour. Manufacturers design these pumps to handle aggregates in the mix even larger than the typical ½ inch used in coarse grouts. Also, consider the mobility of the pump and choose a design with self-propelled movement, so

The largest mortar mixers have up to seven bags capacity, so based on an 80-pound bag of core fill grout, that comes out to about 6 cubic feet.

that the pump can be positioned on the jobsite with minimal effort. You don’t want to have to hook up a trailer pump to a pickup truck or to a forklift every time it needs to be moved. By considering the end goal of moving grout/and or mortar most efficiently to the masonry units, contractors can then trace the process backward and determine each link in the material delivery “chain.” Using the silo configuration described here will allow contractors to take material from a dry state, mix it with water and then deliver the material to where it is needed on the jobsite using only a silo, continuous mixer and pump, or three “links in the chain” from dry material to application.

Todd Ferguson is International Product Manager for Cincinnati, Ohio-based Airplaco Equipment Co.

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MIXERS, PUMPS AND DELIVERY SYSTEMS

6 Things to Look for in a Mixer

in the hydraulic system. With this system, there are no pins to shear, or damage to the mixer during a plug. Will the mixer mix mortar and grout or mortar only? Properly designed hydraulic mixers can mix grout as well as mortar for years as the rubber blades will flex to bypass the gravel and allow the concrete or grout to be mixed. It’s a huge advantage when small amounts of grout or concrete need to be mixed on the jobsite.

Grout Hog owner Damian Lang gives advice on what to look for in a mixer, and provides other mixer guidance for the mason contractor.

ro Masonry Guide recently spoke with one of the masonry industry’s true veteran masons and innovators, Damian Lang, to learn what the mason contractor should really look for in and know about his mixer. Lang is the inventor of the Grout Hog-Grout Delivery System, Mud Hog mortar mixers, the Hog Leg wall bracing system and several other labor-saving devices used in the construction industry. Following is what he had to say.

Pro Masonry Guide: What should a mason contractor look for in a mixer? Damian Lang: A contractor should look for quality and ergonomics for the price he or she is paying. Consider this: Only 30 percent of the cost of a piece of equipment is incurred the day it is purchased, while 70 percent is incurred during everyday use, combined with its lifespan. Here are some important things to consider when purchasing a mixer: The thickness of the drum: Mixers that are built with thin gauge steel are alright for the handyman who only uses a mixer for an hour or two a week. However, for contractors who mix every day, if the drum is built of thin gage steel, the paddles can wear holes in the drum within a few months. This leaves the contractor no choice but to weld patches on the drum to keep mortar in during the mixing process, or to replace the mixer with a new one.

The quality of the paddle blades: Low quality rubber is often used on the paddle blades of low-priced mixers. These blades are subject to wear out in as little as a month, leaving the rubber blades in need of replacement. If the

DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018 //Pro Masonry Guide

operator continues to use the mixer without replacing them, after each use, the mixer operator is required to manually clean the thick layer of mortar the paddles leave on the inside of the drum due to the faulty rubber blades. In doing so, the operator will often damage the drum by using a hammer to clean it. The thinner the drum, the quicker the damage will occur. The way the operator is required to start the engine: If the mixer is equipped with an electric start, the operator doesn’t have to pull a cord each time to start the engine. Without the electric start option, every time the operator pulls on the cord to start the mixer, it is one pull closer to shutting the job down. The pull cord will eventually wear and break apart, leaving the recoil needing to be rebuilt or replaced. When this happens, masons are often standing around waiting on mortar while the operator works on the mixer. With electric start mixers, the only time the pull cord is ever used is when the operator accidently leaves the key on and the battery goes dead. In that case, the operator can start the mixer by pulling the cord, and the battery will be recharged while the mixer is running. Then, it can be started with a key the next time. This avoids constantly pulling on the cord to start the engine.

Reversible paddles: Even the best operators will sometimes forget to add the right amount of water in the mix, plugging the mixer during the mixing process. Without the reverse option, when a mixer plugs, it has to be shut down and dug out while masons stand and wait on mortar. It’s a high price to pay for not having a reversible paddle mixer on the jobsite. The mixer must be hydraulic driven in order for it to reverse the paddles, while easily unplugging itself to finish mixing the batch of mortar or grout. Hydraulic mixers must have built-in cross port reliefs

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The height the operator is required to load the mixer: We build the Mud Hog mixers so they load at the operator’s waist instead of the chest. With the low load and high dump feature, the cylinders on the mixer lift the weight, instead of the operator straining his or her back lifting materials high to load. It makes a world of difference over the course of a day of mixing mortar or grout.

need to be greased. As long as the operator keeps enough grease in the bearing seals, the mortar stays out. We build the Mud Hog mixers with the seals separated from the bearings, so when the seals do wear out, mortar or grout does not go directly into the bearings, ruining bearings and the shaft. Therefore, when the seals do wear out, they must be replaced, but not the bearings and shaft. We also put the bearings and seals on the outside of the drums, so they can be replaced without removing the drum to replace them. Even with proper maintenance, all mixers that are used daily work in difficult conditions. When purchasing a mixer, it is critical to choose a mixer that can stand up to the elements it will be facing each day.

PMG: What do you see for the future of jobsite mixers like Mud Hog?

PMG: What advice can you give a mason to extend the life of his mixer? Lang: At the end of each mixing operation, the mixer must be properly cleaned. At least once a week, all grease fitting locations

Lang: I believe all contractors are looking for a way to make their jobs run smoother and faster. With labor being a contractor’s biggest expense, I believe more and more contractors will continue to go to mixing with these types of mixers. They are built to pay for themselves time and time again, due to ease of use and durability.pPMG

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Pro Masonry Guide//DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018

MOISTURE SOLUTIONS IT’S WHAT WE PROVIDE.

WORLD OF CONCRETE

PREVIEW

World of Concrete to Bring Innovative New Products WOC Booth# S12939 By Jennifer Morrell

A few products to view at the show

Husqvarna Vac Attachment This dry-cutting vac attachment for Husqvarna’s MS 360 vacuum enables dust to be collected the moment it is created, establishing a cleaner work environment. The attachment makes it easy to cut bricks and blocks indoors or outdoors. This simple-to-install attachment can remain on the saw at all times. | Husqvarna.com/us

T Driwall™ Rainscreen Drainage Mat

CAV-AIR-ATOR™

A full wall drainage & ventilation mat for full brick or stone masonry walls

KeeneStone Cut™

A drainage device for masonry cavity wall applications

he 2018 World of Concrete/World of Masonry show will take place Jan. 23-26 in Las Vegas, with seminars beginning Jan. 22. It’s the largest annual international event dedicated to concrete and masonry professionals, and the best opportunity to view the latest equipment and tools available to the mason contractor. World of Concrete is a show that first began in 1975 with 77 exhibitors. Flash forward to 2018, and the event will host more than 1,500 exhibitors and 55,000 registered industry professionals. Both manufacturers and masons alike enjoy attending the show. They are able to share ideas and connect, person to person, about where our industry is headed and what its needs are. Masons will want to attend the Spec Mix BRICKLAYER 500 World Championship bricklaying competition as well, Jan. 18. “World of Concrete is the epicenter when it comes to the masonry industry,” says Joey Peters, masonry brand manager – Echelon Masonry and Amerimix. “From products to education on issues impacting the market, we know this show is where mason contractors come to learn how they can better run their businesses and prepare for the future.” Peters says competition and demand are high in the masonry industry, so exhibitors need to offer value, rather than merely a catalog of what they sell. “For Amerimix in 2018, we’ve really dug into how to save mason contractors money, with real, tangible improvements they can take away and start using in their company,” he says. “Sure, we want them to use Amerimix products, but we also understand that we have an obligation to help mason contractors thrive, not just survive.”

877.514.5336 • F. 440.605.1120 info@keenebuilding.com

keenebuilding.com DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018 //Pro Masonry Guide

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Spec Mix Thin Veneer Adhesion Mortar XP500 Thin Veneer Adhesion Mortar XP500 is a pre-blended, polymer modified, thin-set mortar specifically designed to adhere manufactured and natural thin veneer masonry units in interior and exterior installations. Its anti-sag formulation and optimized sand gradation offer workability, bond and durability. Spec Mix XP500 is engineered with performance additives for increased jobsite productivity and maximum bond strength. | SpecMix.com

Sakrete Type S Mix Sakrete’s Type S Mix is a preblended mixture of sand and masonry cement or sand, lime and Portland cement for laying brick, block and stone in load-bearing walls and below grade applications. Meeting ASTM C1714 and ASTM C270 standards, contractors can utilize the mix to build walls, planters and chimneys, as well as for tuck pointing or repairing existing mortar joints. The versatile mortar mix also can be used for scratch, brown and wall finishing and can be color pigmented. | Sakrete.com

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BOSCH Blaze GLM 42 Laser Measure The Bosch BLAZE GLM 42 Laser Measure offers a full-color backlit display with clear resolution, even in dark areas or in low-light/nolight conditions. With default real-time length, area, volume and indirect measuring functions that are simple to navigate, the device also has a 20-measurement storage capability, addition/ subtraction functionality and a digital bubble vial to give a visual reference when measuring horizontal distances. | BoschUSA.com

Echelon’s Amerimix and RainBloc Echelon’s Amerimix WRM with RainBloc GP is a complete approach to moisture in masonry walls. Amerimix mortars can be mixed 50 percent faster and are available in a portfolio of masonry colors. When used with concrete masonry units that contain RainBloc, the system creates a moisture barrier that inhibits water penetration. RainBloc offers a factory-controlled, precision engineer mortar delivered to the jobsite ready for use. | EchelonMasonry.com

DeWalt Bluetooth-Enabled Green Rotary Tough Laser DEWALT’s 20V MAX Bluetooth Enabled Green Rotary Tough Laser has Bluetooth connectivity to the Tool Connect app. With an IP67 debris/water resistance, 2-meter drop protection, as well as a highly visible green beam, the DEWALT 20V MAX Bluetooth Enabled Green Rotary Tough Laser enables use in adverse conditions. The rotary line and up/ down dots use green beam technology for additional visibility, and run times are similar to red beam counterparts. | DeWalt.com

Pro Masonry Guide//DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018

MASONRY SAWS

Innovations in Masonry Saws

made possible by the sensor-activated STIHL Quickstop wheel brake technology, which stops the rotation of the cutting wheel in fractions of a second if kickback occurs. All STIHL abrasive cutting solutions are designed with an integrated water system for dust suppression. StihlUSA.com

Power meets function as masonry saw designs continue to evolve, while meeting the requirements of OSHA’s recently enforced silica regulation. By Jennifer Morrell

ne might assume that the masonry industry was turned on its head upon the enforcement of OSHA’s Crystalline Silica Rule in September, but that assumption isn’t entirely correct. While mason contractors around the country are learning to take the steps necessary to comply with the new regulation, manufacturers are making that compliance a little smoother and easier. Saw manufacturers have been in deep research and development of both saws and dust collection accessories for years, and they stand ready to offer what masons will now need on the jobsite. In addition to answering the call of OSHA’s demands, saw manufacturers are offering power and more power – and much of it uncorded. And, as always, safety remains at atop manufacturers’ list of features when creating saws for the masonry industry.

Brian Delahaut, vice president for MK Diamond, says the company’s MK5000 saws are loaded with countless safety and performance features. “The self-leveling blade guard provides optimum blade coverage for operator safety,” he says. “The cast aluminum cutting head provides lower decibel levels during cutting, and the spring-assisted cutting head allows for easier step cutting." Delahaut says MK Diamond’s cutting table runs on stainless steel rails for durability and accuracy, while built-in forklift brackets allow lift to approach from front, back or either side. Built-in tie-downs offer safer saw transport as well. While all manufacturers are focused on safety, others turn their thought processes toward efficiency. SKILSAW offers a concrete cutting saw that can help advance jobsite productivity. “With MEDUSAW, we built features into the tool so you don’t need a second person to hold a vacuum or water hose to collect the dust, or a third person to hold a board down onto the surface to make a straight cut.” says Gregg Mangialardi, SKILSAW product manager. Workers can cut concrete in a way that “creates jobsite efficiency and cost savings by combining all of the attachments of aftermarket products into a single, dedicated tool,” he says. Pro Masonry Guide rounded up a few of the latest and greatest new and innovative masonry saws and accessories to show you what’s available now.

iQ PC912 Power Cutter with Integrated Dust Collection The iQ PC912 Power Cutter has an Integrated Dust Collection system and uses no water, for 100 percent dry cutting. The cutter collects up to 90 percent of dust, eliminates dust cleanup and solves the problems associated with wet cutting. The iQPC912 can save the user thousands of dollars as cleanup pay can add up quickly. Blowing dust onto houses, cars and landscapes makes unhappy customers and can cost you future business, and this problem is eliminated as well. The cutter is tough, built for professionals and designed to last. With basic care and maintenance, the iQPC912 will last for years. IQPowerTools.com

STIHL TS 440 Cutquik The TS 440 Cutquik cutoff machine is designed for challenging cuts such as the bottom portions of walls, cutting in corners and cutting the underside of in-ground pipes. The expanded guard adjustability is 20

DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018 //Pro Masonry Guide

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Makita Cutting Solutions Makita offers concrete and masonry cutting solutions with efficient dust management, even when working away from a water source. Makita’s power cutter lineup includes the 14" 61 cc Power Cutter, which weighs 19 pounds. The 14-inch 75.6cc MM4 4-Stroke Engine Power Cutter requires no fuel mixing and offers fast starts, low noise and low vibration. The Power Cutter Dolly has three wheels and includes a 4.2-gallon tank and adjustable handle. MakitaTools.com

SKILSAW Worm Drive Saw SKILSAW offers an integrated worm drive saw designed to score and cut concrete. The saw delivers a complete concrete cutting system with SKILSAW worm drive power and durability. It’s engineered with an integrated wet/dry dust management system to control dust, allowing for cleaner cuts, and GFCI protection. Both features extend the life of the saw and protect the user. MEDUSAW features a Cut-Ready adjustable plunge lock that allows users to quickly and accurately set and make consistent plunge cuts. The saw also has an integrated rolling foot plate with rubber wheels that help users to move it smoothly across hard surfaces and rust resistant brackets and fasteners to protect against corrosion. Skilsaw.com

MK-5000 Series Masonry Saw Series The MK-5000 Electric Masonry Saw Series from MK Diamond Products is built for heavyduty industrial use: large jobs for cutting marble, granite, decorative stone, block, brick and pavers. An 8-inch-high block can be cut in a single pass with a 20inch blade. The open-back design allows for material up to 20 inches long to be cut. Blade guards are available in 14, 20 and 24 inches. The saw is capable of cutting materials 8 x 8 x 20 inches. MK-5000 Electric Saws are powered by industrial, heavy-duty Baldor motors with one- or three-phase power. Motor options include 5, 7.5 and 10 horsepower. MKDiamond.compPMG

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Rebuilding a Labor Force By Jim Cook

ood wages. Excellent job prospects. Opportunities to earn while you’re in training. Masonry jobs offer a quick ticket to the middle class for workers and the opportunity to see real, tangible results from laboring each day. Employers are struggling to find bricklayers, and a growing demand for new construction is putting even more pressure on the industry to recruit and train new workers. To do that, the industry must combat years of state neglect of career technical programs and a societal bias against skilled labor. Renewed investment in career technical programs at the high school and post-secondary level, efforts by contractors and organized labor are all working to address the shortfall of labor in the masonry industry, but the challenge posed by years of declining recruitment is steep.

Growing demand, shrinking labor pool The construction industry has a dire need for more skilled masonry workers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for masonry workers is expected to grow by 12 percent, adding 34,500 jobs between 2016 and 2026. Growth in the industry is being driven by construction required to meet the needs of a growing population. The number of new masons entering the market isn’t enough to meet this demand; in fact, it can’t even meet current demand. Masonry contractors are having trouble filling the open positions, and retirements among Baby Boomers are exacerbating the problem, as this generation makes up a huge segment of the current workforce. “The average age of a brick layer is 54,” says Jay Smith, president of the Bricklayers Union Local 8 of the Southeast. The scarcity of masons is part of a wider shortage of skilled construction labor nationwide. A 2015 study by the Associated General Contractors of America found that nearly 80 percent of the businesses the organization surveyed struggle to find skilled laborers. In the survey, 55 percent of masonry contractors reported having trouble filling jobs. According to the BLS, the median pay for masonry workers in the United States is $41,330 per year, and the top 10 percent of workers earn

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Jocquette Carroll, a masonry instructor at Dothan Technology Center, teaches students James Ward (l) and Korbyn Jef.

around $74,310 per year or more. Brick masons and block masons have the highest median wages of masonry workers – around $49,250. Most masonry training programs allow students to become qualified skilled laborers in two years or less, and some provide job opportunities for students while they are training. With good pay, a quick path to becoming qualified and plentiful employment prospects, it seems that masonry should be an appealing career path for many young workers. Years of declining funding for masonry training programs caused by an increased focus on college preparatory courses have also reduced the number of high school students exposed to the trade. The Great Recession also forced many skilled laborers out of the construction industry, and many are not returning as they’ve found other opportunities. There’s also the fact that masonry isn’t for just anyone. The trade requires mental discipline, physical strength and endurance that not all people have. “Masonry is a very lucrative profession, but it’s also a very labor-intensive profession,” Steve Mitchell, founder of the Maine School of Masonry, says.

Starting at an early age After spending years as a masonry contractor and teaching masonry in public schools, Mitchell started the Maine School of Masonry in 2005. The

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

private, post-secondary program offers a nine-month general masonry program and a nine-month program in restorative masonry. The restorative program teaches specialized skills for masonry restoration projects involving historical buildings, an in-demand skill in the Northeast. Mitchell says he started the program out of frustration with a lack of investment in career technical programs by public education. Mitchell says many students could benefit from training in masonry and construction trades, but for many years those opportunities have been few and far between in public education. Mitchell says societal changes and a decline in home handiwork has also contributed to a drop off in students taking interest in construction-related jobs. “Dads used to spend their weekends with their children working on home projects,” he says. “Kids today don’t do that. When I visit some schools, about 75 percent of the kids didn’t know how to hit the head of a nail with a hammer.” The Maine School of Masonry trains a handful of students each year, but Mitchell hopes to continue to grow the program. Mitchell says his students can quickly find work after graduation. “If you’re an A-student, you can get a pick-up truck and start your own residential masonry business,” he says. “My B-students need to work for another masonry contractor for a while.” Chandler Ellis, of Vienna, Maine is currently enrolled at the Maine School of Masonry. Ellis, 19, joined the program directly out of high school. “I’m a firm believer in learning a trade,” he says. “I think it’s important to have a skill. Masonry seemed attractive because it combines creative and practical skills.”

Ellis is taking advantage of work opportunities provided by the school, earning $18 per hour while learning on the job. Ellis is currently enrolled in the school’s restorative masonry program. “I’m really appreciative of history and I think I can make a difference in helping 200- and 300-year-old buildings. There’s a real Shown is Chandler Ellis, a masonry graduate and secondsense of pride in doing that.” year restoration preservation student at the Maine Mitchell says that his School of Masonry. program and resurgent career technical programs in high school will help fill the ranks of masons, but if the industry really wants to recruit a new generation of masonry workers, they need to extend their outreach to younger students. Mitchell conducts short-term workshops at elementary and middle schools in Maine. Mitchell spends about a week in each school, teaching students masonry basics. Mitchell says middle school is the perfect time to help students develop an interest in masonry. “Sixth to eighth-graders are still interested in building things,” he says. “That’s where the push needs to be.”

Decline and revival of career technical education In the past, career technical programs enjoyed strong government support. The first federal law funding vocational programs passed in 1917, years before each state made education compulsory for children. In the 1980s, career tech programs began to decline as states focused more on preparing students for college. States increased the number of core academic courses required of students and reduced funding for career technical programs. A social stigma against career technical programs also arose, as educators and popular culture reinforced the idea that a four-year college degree was the only path to prosperity for students. These changes took a toll on high school career technical programs. Between 1990 and 2009, the number of career technical credits earned by high school students in the United States dropped by 14 percent, according to The Brookings Institute. The tide is beginning to turn, however, as policy makers have seen that unfilled, good-paying jobs exist in skilled labor and are changing priorities to address that gap. In 2015, 39 states passed 125 new laws aimed at revitalizing their career technical programs. Montana doubled its funding for high school career technical programs, while Nevada tripled its state budget for these programs. Jocquette Carroll teaches masonry at Dothan Technical Center, a career technical center in Dothan, Alabama. Carroll’s program is one of a handful of masonry programs in the state. Carroll says that after years of decline, the state is beginning to invest more in career technical programs. “Alabama has been pushing more funding toward construction trades,” he says. “We’re ahead of some other states in masonry, but there are some that are ahead. North Carolina and Virginia are pushing masonry.” 24

DECEMBER 2017-JANUARY 2018 //Pro Masonry Guide

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Cuyahoga Community College, located in Ohio, partners with Bricklayers Local Union 5 to provide a bricklayers apprenticeship program.

Career technical education can have a major impact on students’ employment outcomes. A study of a nationally representative sample of 12to 17-year-olds that began in 1997 and continues to track this cohort found that career technical education participation is linked with higher wages. The study found that students who took upper-level coursework in career technical programs tend to have higher wages. Carroll says he has a wide range of students in his classes, including both college and career-bound students. Torreon Underwood takes honors academic courses and is enrolled in Carroll’s masonry class. Underwood plans to go to college but says he wanted to learn masonry skills as a secondary career choice. “I don’t want to be a person who has to be worried about how they’re going to earn a living,” he says. James Ward, also a student at DTC, plans to pursue a career in masonry. Ward says that without the program, he probably would never have considered a career in masonry. “I think it’s good experience,” he says. “I’m learning new ways of building and how to calculate distance between blocks. It’s a good opportunity.” Students in Carroll’s program can earn National Center for Construction Education and Research Certification. Carroll says students who complete his program are prepared for entry level jobs in the masonry workforce, where they can begin at between $15 and $25 per hour, a good starting salary for the area. Carroll says that the potential to earn a solid starting salary straight out of high school is appealing to many of his students. “We have seen an increase in the number of students in my class,” he says. “I have about 42 students and half of them are honors students.”

Organized labor and community colleges Labor unions and community colleges are also playing a big role in producing qualified new workers for the masonry profession. Organized labor has a vested interest in replenishing its ranks to allow unions to continue to provide contractors and construction firms with a reliable pool of skilled labor. Many community college programs work with labor unions to provide training to students. In Ohio, Cuyahoga Community College partners with

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

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Bricklayers Local Union 5 to provide a bricklayers apprenticeship program. The program has been running since 1997 and enrolls about 150 apprentices each year. Students take general education classes at the college and attend technical classes at an off-site center run by the union. The Cuyahoga Community College program prepares students to earn an associate’s degree in bricklaying and allied crafts and to earn journey-level status in bricklaying. University officials say the program provides excellent Shown is Stephen (Mitch) Mitchell, career prospects to students, and that founder of and instructor of the Maine the partnership between the union and School of Masonry. the college ensures that students get the academic and practical education they need to succeed. “The demand for masons in Northeast Ohio and the overall state is good as all apprentices and journeymen are employed,” John Horton, media relations manager for Cuyahoga Community College, says. “The outlook for continued employment is good for the next several quarters, according to those in the industry.” Union participation isn’t as high as it was in years past; public policy and societal changes have chipped away at membership. Ed Navarro, south region

director for the International Union of Bricklayers, says that’s creating a problem for contractors and construction firms, who may be able to find laborers, but may not always be able to find skilled ones. “Union training has always been the best training,” Navarro says. Marketing is critical to efforts by unions and educational institutions to recruit new talent. Bob Arnold is the national director of apprenticeship and training for the International Masonry Training and Education Foundation, which provides training, certifications, and continuing education to members of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers. Arnold says meeting young people where they are – reaching out to them using the mediums they’re familiar with – is important to recruiting new workers. Arnold says his organization has increased their online marketing efforts and have pitched the teamwork aspect of masonry to Millennials and younger students – who are more collaborative that generations past. “We try to emphasize that you’re part of a team and that you’re building something tangible that you can take pride in,” Arnold says. Private industry, public education institutions and labor unions are all contributing to efforts to replenish the pool of skilled masonry workers, and these efforts are creating results. Continued support for training and recruitment efforts is critical as the industry faces a tight deadline and a difficult challenge. “In the next five to 10 years we’re going to have to replace 40 percent of the workforce,” Smith says.

Jim Cook is a freelance writer based in Dothan, Ala.

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WHAT I'VE LEARNED

Expand Your Skillset A mason lends advice on selecting the right job, bidding and obtaining help.

Jason Peek, Peek Masonry

t was the fall of 2009, right before the bottom officially fell out of the economy. In a time when construction projects on both sides of the line – residential and commercial – were taking a hit, Jason Peek was looking to find his next project. He eventually found an opportunity with a sprawling home in Blountville, Tenn. The house was being rebuilt by its owners, Scott and Teresa Stephens, after a fire gutted it to the ground. The Stephens had specific instructions on the rebuild. Enamored with the General Shale products they painstakingly selected on the original home, they wanted their new one to feature similar products. Only this time, they wanted to add stone accents to the look. With stone added to the mix, Peek admittedly was delving into a project that required a skill set a little beyond his means. While bricklaying was something at which he excelled during his 22-plus years as a mason, he only had limited experience, at the time, working with stone. And, because the stone served as an accent to the brick, the job was better suited to have one installer. The Kingsport, Tenn., mason knew that what he was bidding on would be a Herculean task. The bid went in; the bid was accepted. "At the time, I hadn't really laid much stone," Peek recalls. "But the project came at a time when work was really dwindling, so I took on both ends of the job – the brick and the stone." Standard brick comes in a single unit size, so the installation is much more simplified. Peek merely had to lay the brick in 28

straight rows. Of course, as with any project, complicated patterns can exist with brickwork. But those are more of a design choice. The stone installation was another process altogether. Like brick, the standard masonry technique is a full-bed product, meaning it has to be installed on a brick ledge or support system. Laid in mortar, it requires a cavity and wall ties. The main difference is that styles like Citadel come in different sizes, which are meant to work in an ashlar-type pattern. That means the pieces fit together like a puzzle. And because the product has some color variations, they give off a natural, more appealing look. Peek would have to know how the sizes fit together to create the pattern, as well as how to select the color shades so they are spread out within the wall.

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Staring headlong into a project he knew would test his mettle, Peek thought he might need some help. In the beginning, he reached out to the General Shale team, which sent an expert to help guide him through the installation process. Providing all the technical support needed (Peek picked up on the process quickly), the job went off without a hitch. Along with helping meet the Stephens’ expectations for the look of their new home, the installation was finished just in time to help them enjoy their son’s senior year of high school. "Sometimes you have to know when to ask for help on a project," Peek says. "There can't be any egos involved. Every day that I set out to do a job, I set out to do it better than the day before. That doesn't always work, but it's something I shoot for." While Peek admits every job he has ever done could be better, he had a good feeling about the Blountville home and the lesson he learned. To note, several years later, the house was featured in General Shale's annual calendar, holding down the month of May. "It was always my goal to have a project make their calendar," Peek says. "It was a dream come true."pPMG

What have you learned? Pro Masonry Guide wants to share your story. Email Jennifer Morrell at jmorrell@SilverLakeMediaGroup.com.

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