Masonry Magazine December 2016 by Lionheart Publishing Inc.

December 2016

T Th he e V Vo o ii c ce e o o ff tt h he e M Ma as so on nr ry y II n nd du us s tt r ry y

Volume Volume 55, 55, Number Number 12 12

Also Inside: World of Concrete

2017 Preview

Scaffold Planks and Decking

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on the

cover

December 2016 | Volume 55, No. 12

Contents 16

Scaffold Planks and Decking Wood Scaffold Plank Performance Learn how the key elements of wood plank relate to performance

20 What’s in a Grade?

An expert reveals the differences between DI 65 and MSR plank

22 Quiz: Scaffold Planks and Platforms

Test your knowledge on scaffold plank identification and inspection

World of Concrete 2017 Preview Get Ready for World of Concrete and the 2017 MCAA Annual Convention

Intermediate School 230Q Annex is a four-story, steelframed and concrete slab structure with a brick and block vented cavity wall exterior. Brick and cast-stone elements were combined in a contemporary adaptation of the architectural ornamentation found throughout the neighborhood, New York City’s Jackson Heights Historic District. The project earned Best in Class in the 2016 BIA Brick in Architecture Awards, Education — K–12. More details can be found on page 48. Photography courtesy of Anna-Marie Kellen

columns & departments 6 8 10 12 34 36 38 39

Editor’s Note Chairman’s Message Government Affairs New Products Trowel Tech Business Building Classified Advertising News

MCAA Strategic Partner Program

MASONRY (ISSN 0025-4681) is published monthly. Subscription rate $29 per year; Canada and Mexico $47 (U.S. currency); all other countries $65. Single copies $8.50. Copyright 2016 by Mason Contractors Association of America. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MASONRY, c/o Lionheart Publishing, Inc., 506 Roswell St., Ste. 220, Marietta, GA 30060. Canadian return address: Station A, PO Box 54 Windsor, Ontario N9A 615. SEND SUBSCRIPTIONS and business correspondence to: MASONRY, c/o Lionheart Publishing, Inc., 506 Roswell St., Ste. 220, Marietta, GA 30060 Phone: 770-431-0867 or 888-303-5639 www.masonrymagazine.com. Layout & Design © Lionheart Publishing, Inc.

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MASONRY

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

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FROM

THE

EDITOR

Karen D. Hickey, Editor - karen@lionhrtpub.com

It’s Been Real This issue of Masonry is my last. A new editor, Dan Kamys, will take over the reins in January when the magazine passes from Lionheart’s to MCAA’s jurisdiction. Whether the topic is workforce development or the new silica rule or safety, I know Dan and the MCAA will continue fighting for the real concerns of your small businesses. Masonry was an entirely new field to me, and it was a pleasure getting acquainted with the issues as well as the people involved in this industry. Masons and mason contractors are indeed the passionate, hard-working people one would expect to find. To all of you who make this industry tick, I say thank you. I must thank two inspir ing individuals who helped me immensely along my journey since the March 2016 issue of Masonry.

First, I met Steven Fechino during my first week on the job at World of Concrete in February. An expert on moisture management, he can churn out a 1200-word article in a day, making it look easy! His contributions to both the magazine and this industry are certainly recognized, as he was recently inducted into the National Masonry Instructors Association Hall of Fame. Second, I met Brandon Hartsell at NCMCA’s annual meeting at the end of April. Motivated and enthusiastic, Brandon is always willing to help. He is now working diligently to bring more young people into masonry. I can only imagine how far he’ll go in the industry, as his passion is contagious! I encourage you to be an inspiration to others as these two gentlemen have been to me. It’s been a real pleasure and privilege to be a part of this great industry. Thank you, all! yMAS

COMING IN JANUARY 2017 Be sure to catch the January 2017 issue of Masonry, which will feature articles covering current trends and examining industry issues, including:

The Voice of the Masonry Industry MASONRY Magazine Official Publication of the Mason Contractors Association of America and the Canadian Masonry Contractors Association The Mason Contractors Association of America is committed to preserving and promoting the masonry industry by providing continuing education, advocating fair codes and standards, fostering a safe work environment, recruiting future manpower, and marketing the benefits of masonry materials.ion of America is committed to preserving and promoting the masonry industry by providing continuing education, advocating fair codes and standards, fostering a safe work environment, recruiting future manpower, and marketing the benefits of masonry materials.

Mason Contractors Association of America

Chairman Vice Chairman Treasurer Secretary

Robert V. Barnes, Jr. Glenn Hotmann John Jacob Gary Joyner Jed Olafson

Regional Vice Presidents

HISTORIC RESTORATION SERIES A new restoration series kicks off, detailing techniques and tricks that can apply to modern masonry.

For advertising information, contact Richard Ballschmiede E-mail: rballschmiede@masonrymagazine.com

6 |

MASONRY

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

President/CEO

Michael Schmerbeck Rick Swanson Lynn Vasquez Dennis Withsosky

Jeff Buczkiewicz

Executive Staff Government Affairs Representatives Director of Marketing, Education, and Information Technology Director of Development Membership Coordinator Administrative Assistant Consultant

The Keelen Group Timothy W. O’Toole Todd Fredrick Angie Parisi Lorra Lein Rashod Johnson

Editorial Advisory Board David Jollay (Jollay Masonry Contractors), John Chrysler (MIA), John Melander (PCA), David Hill (Pettit Construction Co.), John J. Smith (John J. Smith Masonry Co.), Brian Grant (Grant/Jack’s Masonry), Jerry Painter (Painter Masonry, Inc.), Doug Nichols (Doug Nichols Enterprises), G. Alan Griffin (Griffin Contracting, Inc.), Tom Daniel (GBC Concrete and Masonry Construction, Inc.)

Executive Office 1481 Merchant Drive Algonquin, IL 60102 Phone: 224.678.9709 or 800.536.2225 Fax: 224.678.9714

MASONRY is the official publication of the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) and the Canadian Masonry Contractors Association (CMCA). The magazine acts as a sounding board without approving, disapproving or guaranteeing the validity or accuracy of any data, claim or opinion appearing under a byline or obtained or quoted from an acknowledged source. Opinions expressed by officers do not necessarily reflect the official views of MCAA or CMCA. The appearance of advertising or new product information doesn't constitute an endorsement by MCAA or CMCA of product featured.

DRONES IN MASONRY Masonry takes a look at a newly developing trend of using drones to help save money, time, and even keep a jobsite safe. ECONOMIC FORECAST PREVIEW Jim Toscas of the Portland Cement Association gives Masonry a preview of the economic outlook for 2017.

Michael Sutter Paul Odom Paul Oldham Larry Vacala

Masonry Advertising and Editorial Office

Send all advertising and editorial submissions for Masonry to: Lionheart Publishing, Inc. 506 Roswell Street, Suite 220, Marietta, GA 30060 USA Tel: 888.303.5639 • Fax: 770.432.6969 • E-mail: lpi@lionhrtpub.com www.masonrymagazine.com Publisher John Llewellyn • llewellyn@lionhrtpub.com Editor Karen D. Hickey • karen@lionhrtpub.com Copy Editor Marty M. Hohmann • marty@redclayeditorial.com Art Director Alan Brubaker • albrubaker@lionhrtpub.com Online Projects Manager Patton McGinley • patton@lionhrtpub.com Assistant Online Projects Manager Leslie Proctor • leslie@lionhrtpub.com Advertising Sales Marvin Diamond • marvin@lionhrtpub.com Advertising Sales John Davis • jdavis@lionhrtpub.com Marketing Director and Audience Development Maria Bennett • bennett@lionhrtpub.com Reprints Kelly Millwood • kelly@lionhrtpub.com

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

CHAIRMAN’S

MESSAGE

Michael Sutter Chairman

Mason Contractors Association of America mike.sutter@suttermasonry.com

Making Our Industry Stronger I just returned from Washington, D.C., having met with our BIM-M partners. For those who are not familiar with BIM for Masonry, known as BIM-M, it will allow those in the design community to easily include masonry in their designs. Previously, when architects or engineers designed and modeled projects with BIM, they were not able to model with masonry, as there was no software to allow this. Therefore, many times it was just easier for them to choose another material that they could model with. They are now very close to being able to easily use masonry in their BIM designs. When we took this project on, we had a five-year road map and budget. We have just completed year four, and after the meeting we just had in D.C., I can say that we are on schedule and under budget! MCAA is one of the four major sponsors of this project, and the Masonry Foundation gave us the ability to fund the project. Also while in D.C., we met with our Legislative Committee co-chairs, Bev McCauley and Joe Bonifate, and our lobbyist in D.C., Stephen Borg from the Keelan Group. We spent some time reviewing our agenda from last year and discussed our successes and areas that we still need to focus on in 2017. We are excited to begin the next legislative session in Congress. Since I am writing this article before election day, I don’t know who will be in the White House, but we will work with members of Congress from both sides of the aisle while advancing our goals. MCAA’s annual meeting and convention are coming up at the 8 |

MASONRY

World of Concrete/ World of Masonry in Las Vegas, Jan. 15–20. This is a can’t-miss event that begins with the two-day Foreman Development Program on Sunday, Jan. 15. Monday evening is our new Top Golf event benefiting the PAC and PEC. Tuesday morning is all business with our MCAA’s Fastest Trowel on the Block competition is one of the committee meetings. many features during MASONRY MADNESS Day at the World of We w ill be holding Concrete/World of Masonry exhibition. our Train-the-Trainer course for silica protection on Tuesday between the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER morning as well. We will all be required 500® and the MCAA Fastest Trowel on to have a competent person with the Block. As the name implies, this regard to a written silica protection area is intended to promote masonry plan on every jobsite beginning June careers to high school students. In 23, 2017. If you send someone from addition, new and innovative products your company to this class, they will will be demonstrated that will make be able to return and train all your our businesses easier and allow us to foremen. Tuesday evening is our very save money and work safer. popular South of 40 event at Señor Thursday morning includes our Frogs. This event is a lot of fun and just annual business meeting, Networking keeps getting bigger and better each Roundtables and Storm Shelter year. Get your tickets early, as this event Program. Thursday evening concludes could sell out. our convention with dinner at Fogo de Wednesday is, as they say in the Chão, Las Vegas. You can find all this rodeo world, “The Granddaddy of information, and also register, at www. ’Em All,” MASONRY MADNESS masoncontractors.org. I look forward in the Gold Lot. This is where the to seeing you there and making our SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500®, the industry stronger! MCAA’s Fastest Trowel on the Block As I said earlier, I am writing this and Apprentice Skills Contest are held. article before the election. I know there There will be thousands of people has been a lot of hype, stress, anxiety in attendance and many thousands and maybe a little dirt surrounding more watching the live broadcast. Last this election cycle. I hope your team year, we introduced the Innovation won, but if not, we all need to come and Workforce Development Zone together and move forward. yMAS

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

GOVERNMENT

AFFAIRS

By Stephen Borg

What Does 2017 Have in Store? I am typing this piece a mere four days before Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016: Election Day. I am reflecting on what a crazy year 2016 has been (as the Chicago Cubs’ World Series victory parade rolls by on the television screen!) and what might be turning up as we kick off 2017. By the time this piece is published and you are reading it, we will know who is going to be sworn into the U.S. presidency on Jan. 20, 2017, which party will be in control of the U.S. Senate in the 115th Congress, and who might be the Speaker of the House should current Speaker Paul Ryan resign (as some experts in Washington, D.C., now expect). All three of these answers will play a crucial role in shaping 2017. While there remains a lot of uncertainty about what the future w ill hold in Washington, D.C., in early 2017, and while specific legislative language will of course be shaped by the party that holds the White House and the Senate, we expect both parties to try early in 2017 to push many issues that will impact you and your businesses. I wanted to take this time to briefly highlight three such issues that both parties have been discussing and which have been in the works for many months now. • Tax Reform — The issue of broad, bipartisan tax simplification and tax reform has been at the top of many 10 |

MASONRY

people’s agenda for numerous years. Chatter from leaders of both parties has increased ever since 2014, when former Ways and Means Committee chairman Dave Camp (R-MI) released a draft outline of a major tax overhaul. Both major-party presidential candidates have released reform plans, and this issue may be the most likely to see broad bipartisan agreement between the White House and Congress. • Infrastructure Investment — Touching on the issue above, many people, including Hillary Clinton, have discussed using revenue from tax reform efforts to set up an investment fund that would be used to update our nation’s roads, bridges, airports and other major infrastructure projects. Major players in both parties agree that our nation’s infrastructure is in dire need of upgrading and that the federal government must take steps to ensure that the states are receiving funds to invest in these infrastructure projects.

We expect both to try early

parties

in 2017 to push

many issues that will impact

you and

your businesses. find a compromise between business interests and security interests, we fully expect IT security and the protection of connected systems and personal information will remain a very important issue in Washington, D.C., as a result of a series of many high-profile hacking incidents in both the private and public sectors in recent years. While it remains to be seen which, if any, of the above issues is actually acted on starting in January, one thing I am sure of is this: if 2017 is anything like 2016, we are in for quite a wild ride! yMAS

• IT Security — Over the past two years, there have been numerous attempts in Congress to craft bipartisan legislation dealing with IT security. While these efforts ultimately fell apart due to the struggle to

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

EZG

Manufacturing The Hoist Hog fits over the Hog Cart to easily transport materials to various heights. Support bars are placed into the coordinating slots to secure the two pieces of equipment together.

The Hoist Hog and Hog Cart are available in both block and brick.

Solid Grate Cover

With the new OSHA standard for silica dust, the Mud Hog Mixer solid grate cover provides your employees less exposure to silica dust. There are also two separate openings on the grate. One for mixing materials and one for water intake to make the job more efficient and safe.

1-800-417-9272 www.ezgrout.com ezgsales@ezgmfg.com

NEW

Product & Service Information

PRODUCTS To submit a new product, contact:

We’ve made it fast, easy and convenient to request FREE information about any product or service in this issue. To request information online, go to: www.masonrymagazine.com. Click on ‘FREE Product Information’ (right top corner), then… 1. Select the issue of the magazine you are reading 2. Check the box next to the advertiser you are interested in 3. Provide your name, address and business information 4. Click submit. Image © Ed Caldwell, www.edwardcaldwell.com

Dan Kamys • Email: dkamys@masoncontractors.org

www.masonrymagazine.com

OX Tools

DEWALT

Watershed Materials

New Britain, Conn.

Napa, Calif.

Cranford, N.J.

Performance, Beauty and ToughBox Storage Chest Mix It Up With OX Tools’ mix m8 Equipped for Toughest Jobsites Sustainability for Modern Masonry With its unique “rabbit ear” design, the mix m8 mixing paddle is ideal for mixing small batches. The highly flexible and durable non-porous plastic mixing paddle creates a smooth and consistent mix. The patented mixing system can mix up plaster or other mortar compound including aggregates even with a cordless drill (18v). Working well with both cordless (3/8-inch hex shaft) and corded drills (9/16-inch hex shaft), it is a must-have for jobsites where a cordless drill is the only option. http://us.oxtools.com

The ToughBox Storage Chest is designed to withstand the most demanding jobsites, offering a 2,500-lb. capacity and available in 36-, 42-, 48and 60-inch models. Constructed from a 16-gauge steel body, a 14-gauge steel floor, and 7-gauge steel skids with four-way skid access, the box has under-lid storage. The expansive bottom area of the box allows for bulk storage of large tools. The ToughBox is compatible with ToughSystem Totes to provide storage in the top portion of the box, aiding organization and portability. www.dewalt.com

A new range of Watershed Block uses local materials that celebrate the region of their origin, all produced with the latest in sustainable building materials technology. The Lime White block uses zero cement and offers a bright, glacier-white appearance that emerges from lime and white clay. The Stanford block is inspired by the rich, reddishbrown sandstone beneath the Stanford University campus. The sunrise hue of the Sweetwater Watershed Block comes from the warm, almost peach tone of its predominant crusher fines. More colors are available. www.watershedmaterials.com

GCP Applied Technologies Inc. Milwaukee Tool

Makita

Milwaukee, Wis.

La Mirada, Calif.

Long Tapes With Industry’s First New Line of 18V LXT SubBlade Cleaning System Compact Brushless Tools Designed to address common user frustrations with long tapes currently available on the market, new Milwaukee Long Tapes provide ultimate durability and accuracy. The industry-first, patentpending Grime Guard blade cleaning system features a wiper that keeps dirt, mud, and other jobsite contaminants out of the housing and internal components of the long tape as it is reeled in — providing a much longer tool life. A proprietary blade manufacturing process also combines a steel blade with extruded nylon coating.

Makita has created a new class in cordless tools with the release of 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless. The line includes the most compact and lightest weight tools in the 18V category, giving contractors the size and handling of a 12-volt tool with the performance, power and compatibility of 18 volts. Both the new 18V Sub-Compact driver-drill and impact driver feature brushless motors that run contact-free and are engineered for up to 50 percent longer runtime, increased power and speed, and longer tool life.

www.milwaukeetool.com

www.makitatools.com

12 |

MASONRY

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

Cambridge, Mass.

PERM-A-BARRIER Liquid Flashing PERM-A-BARRIER is an advanced liquid flashing technology created for difficult detail areas and applicator productivity. This fluid-applied flashing protects window and door rough openings from the damaging effects of air and water entry. It creates an air-tight seal equal to traditional sheetapplied flashing and applies and dries at 20 mils, eliminating the need to calculate for water evaporation. PERM-A-BARRIER liquid flashing cures to form a durable, resilient, monolithic and fully bonded elastomeric flashing when applied to existing or new construction. www.gcpat.com

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

MEASURE UP We help you...

Including BlockFlash®, LathNet® and TotalFlash® in

your jobs will increase both your productivity and your bottom line. When you “do the math” after every job, our solutions always add up. And when the bar is high for successful job completion, you’ll always measure up.

Call or email for samples: 800.664.6638 • technicalservices@mortarnet.com

mortarnet.com

JOIN THE MCAA FOR $599 GET A $3,000 MEMBERSHIP PACKAGE

Become a member of the MCAA during the 2017 World of Concrete, January 17-20, 2017 in Las Vegas, for only $599 and you’ll receive: •

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•

Go To Work Safety Kit

•

Standard Practice for Bracing Masonry Walls

•

MCAA Rough Terrain Forklift Safety Manual Part I & 2

•

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•

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Visit Booth N1813, stop by the MCAA Tent in the Gold Lot, visit www.masoncontractors.org/join, or call 800-536-2225 for more information.

WE ARE MASONRY. TOGETHER WE ARE STRONGER. Help us build a strong and successful masonry industry for you and your company. Call 800-536-2225 or visit www.masoncontractors.org/join.

www.masoncontractors.org

SCAFFOLD PLANKS AND DECKING

Wood Scaffold

Plank Performance By Mike Gilleran WOOD SCAFFOLD PLANK IS UNDOUBTEDLY A CRITICAL COMPONENT WITHIN SCAFFOLD ASSEMBLIES, as worker safety depends on the performance of the planks on which they stand. Nowadays, the product offering of wood scaffold plank is quite diverse. Aside from traditional solid sawn lumber planks that are visually graded to meet OSHA standards, there are various types and qualities of manufactured or laminated wood scaffold boards to consider. Regardless of what wood plank type (manufactured or solid sawn) you are in favor of, it is important to understand the key elements of wood plank as they relate to performance. You should pay particular attention to the physical design properties of the product being considered, specifically, strength and stiffness values, which have been determined through extensive laboratory testing in accordance with the ASTM Standards for Structural Composite Lumber Products. Since scaffold plank is used “flatwise,” the two most critical design properties used to determine a board’s ability to support specified loads over given spans are the fiber bending (Fb) value and the modulus of elasticity (MOE, or technically speaking, E). The fiber bending value corresponds to the board’s resistance against an applied load and the relative tension and compression of the wood fiber within the plank. The higher the fiber bending value, the more load the plank will handle before fracturing or reaching its breaking point. The

Product Performance Comparison PRODUCT

MOE

DEFLECTION (inches)

2.00

3200

0.61

2.20

2900

0.55

2.00

2350

0.61

1.80

2200

0.67

16 |

MASONRY

modulus of elasticity is the measurement of the plank’s stiffness, or the association between the amount a board will deflect downward and the load which causes this deflection. To put it in simplistic terms, the higher the fiber bending strength, the more weight a plank will support before fracturing or breaking, and the higher the modulus of elasticity, the more rigid or stiff the plank will feel beneath one’s feet. Even if a product has a high MOE value, this does not necessarily mean it is a safer product or will support as much weight as a plank with a lower MOE but high fiber bending value. In fact, when developing span load tables for scaffold plank products, the fiber bending value often influences the ultimate performance more than the modulus of elasticity. The chart in this article illustrates the deflection and strength performance testing of four different wood plank products with varying design properties. Assuming the plank products are the same size, brand new, have identical moisture content (less than 19 percent), and have been tested under identical circumstances PERFORMANCE (same load and span), you (% of Fb allowable) will notice that products with the same MOE will deflect 47% exactly the same amount. In addition, the far-right column 52% represents the product strength performance relative to its fiber 64% bending strength. For instance, 69% product A would perform at 47

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

percent of its maximum allowable strength before reaching the threshold, or when it will begin to fail. Simultaneously, product C tests at 64 percent of its allowable strength under the same test criteria, meaning there is a 22 percent performance difference between products A and C. Both products have the same MOE, yet testing shows there is a substantial difference in ultimate strength performance of the two products. This further exemplifies that both design values, Fb and MOE, should be reviewed when selecting a product. For further clarification/experimental purposes, take, for example, two different kinds of EPS foam board insulation products of the same thickness and width (one being white bead board commonly referred to as Styrofoam, the other being rigid EPS insulation, often referred to as Blue Board). Span both products over two supports the same distance apart, then apply light pressure downward on each (by using your hands simultaneously). You will find they both have a similar stiffness. The resistance will seem comparable. This is the Modulus of Elasticity. Now follow the same test procedure, but apply even more pressure continuously. Both boards will slowly flex, but eventually the Styrofoam will abruptly snap, while the Blue Board will continue to bend or accept more deflection before it reaches its breaking point. This is because the Blue Board has a higher fiber bending value. The lesson to be learned is this: if these were scaffold plank beneath your feet instead of insulated foam board, while the MOE value of the product is important to your comfort level, it’s the fiber bending strength that weighs more on your safety. There is yet another aspect to be considered as well. Plank thickness governs plank performance, and the design values influence the ultimate performance to a greater extent. The masonr y industr y is accustomed to using 2 x 10 (1 1/2 x 9 1/4-inch nominal size) plank. Therefore, if you are considering a thicker manufactured plank, keep in mind that if it has low design properties, it will likely be heavier and therefore more difficult to handle. At the very least, it could pose a tripping hazard if mixed in a scaffold system with other plank types. www.masonrymagazine.com

To further substantiate the above points, when engineers calculate and develop span tables for particular plank products, they have to observe both the modulus of elasticity and the fiber bending value and must do so for each plank size, type and quality. Of course, they must also observe the deflection limit of L/60 (length of span divided by 60), stipulated in the OSHA standards. The next time you are doing research to purchase more scaffold plank, do not be fooled if you’re told, “The

December 2016 SWScaffolding_half-island_10-16.indd 1

MASONRY

| 17

9/14/16 2:45 PM

SCAFFOLD PLANKS AND DECKING

plank I’m offering you is a better grade because the MOE is higher; therefore, it’s the better product.” Remember, the official grade is “SCAFFOLD PLANK,” and the modulus of elasticity is merely one of the design properties, relating specifically to the stiffness rating. Of much more importance is the fiber bending value, which influences a plank’s ability to support loads before fracture or failure. There really is a science to the performance of wood products, and this is especially true regarding the overall performance and life expectancy of OSHA-compliant scaffold plank. Consider both design values, not just MOE, and then make an informed decision. yMAS Mike Gilleran is CEO of McCausey Specialty Products., Roseville, Mich. He can be reached at mikeg@mccausey. com.

18 |

MASONRY

For Your Information

IRS Favors Business With Updated Tax Incentive Budgeting is a daunting task for business owners, especially when it relates to large capital expenditures. However, if you are pondering whether to purchase new equipment or machinery this year, don’t over think the matter. Be sure to ask your tax advisor about the updated Section 179 deduction offered by the Internal Revenue Service, because you may be able to deduct the entire purchase. Of course, there are some eligibility circumstances related to this incentive, but in general, if the new equipment is acquired exclusively for business use, you should be able to deduct up to the maximum allotment of $500,000. The purchase must be an integral part of your production or manufacturing and not for rental to other entities or affiliated companies. The spending cap on qualifying equipment purchases is $2,000,000, making this a true small-business tax incentive. For more specific details, visit: www.irs.gov/publications/p946/ch02.html. In light of the above, note that wood scaffold plank purchased for use by your own staff should qualify as an eligible property recognized under Section 179. Plank is deemed to be a type of equipment, similar to any other tool used by the construction trades. So whether your business is masonry work, plastering, or any other commercial or industrial trade, your next scaffold board purchase is likely fully deductible. yMAS Disclaimer: This article is not intended nor should be construed as legal or tax advice. Please consult your tax professional. Mike Gilleran is CEO of McCausey Specialty Products. He can be reached at mikeg@mccausey.com. Lindsey Powell is a construction attorney with Anderson Jones Attorneys. She can be reached at lpowell@andersonandjones.com.

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

Long Life Boom Rollers Rollers eliminate chatter, delivering smoother boom operation

3600 Visibility Operator can view the entire working area around the telehandler

Intuitive Operator Controls Function boom and chassis sway controls with one arm Boom Lift Point For safer handling of suspended loads

The Xtreme Difference. It’s more than just a phrase. It’s who we are and what we do. What began with a few models of Rough Terrain Telescopic Handlers in 2003, born from the idea to do it different and do it better than anyone else, has quickly become the industry standard in performance, innovation, safety, quality, and reliability. We offer the largest model line in North America that is safer, more reliable, more productive, and proven to out lift and out last anything else in the industry. And our entire model line is backed by our industry leading 10 year - 5 year - 2 year warranty. The Xtreme Difference. It’s who we are and what we do. And it’s the difference we can make for you.

SCAFFOLD PLANKS AND DECKING

What’s in a

Grade? By Jared Kennison

ONE OF THE MOST DURABLE

November 13, 2014 To Whom It May Concern Re: Machine and Visually Graded Scaffold Plank

There have been some recent questions as to the comparative suitability of visual DI65 scaffold plank as compared to machine graded 2200 Fb scaffold plank. These two grades are interchangeable, as they have the same published design values and are visually graded to meet the requirements of ASTM Standard D245 and D2555. The published design values were modified using the procedures shown in Calculating Apparent Reliability of Wood Scaffold Planks as published by the Journal on Structural Safety, 2(1984) 47-47, and updated in 1993. In visual grading, density is used to eliminate low strength pieces that may not meet the published values. In machine grading, each piece is evaluated by a machine approved by the American Lumber Standard Committee Board of Review. Prior to production, the mill must produce a qualifying run per the inspection agencies machine graded lumber procedures. During production the mill periodically samples the selected production and performs strength and stiffness tests to verify conformance with the standard. Typically, machine graded production has significantly less variation than visually graded production. Properly graded and labeled DI65 Scaffold plank and MSR 2200Fb-1.8E Scaffold plank are intended for the same applications with each MSR plank being individually evaluated to meet the strength requirements.

Bob Browder Director Lumber Division

Web: spib.org Phone: 850.434.2611 Fax: 850.434.1290 | P. O. Box 10915. Pensacola, Florida 32524

A letter from the Southern Pine Inspection Bureau regarding how to identify properly graded and labeled scaffold plank.

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MASONRY

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

a nd cost- ef fe ctive choices f o r s c a f f o l d p l a n k by m a s o n contractors is solid sawn scaffold plank. The two main choices these days are MSR (Machine Stress Rated) and DI 65 (Dense Industrial 65), both made from Southern yellow pine species, manufactured mostly in the Southern United States. Before the very first load of “Scaffold Grade” plank was made in 1972, mason contractors and other trades used solid lumber boards of whatever species they could find. In that year, SPIB (the Southern Pine Inspection Bureau), which is one of the third-par ty inspection agencies, created a higher grade, which is the Scaffold Grade that we know today. The DI 65 Scaffold Gr ade was intended to satisfy safety requirements for scaffold plank set by OSHA/ ANSI. As with other graded lumber products, each plank or batch is visually inspected by a certified lumber grader for characteristics and defects before it can be stamped as scaffold plank. Characteristics like knot size, splits, breaks, slope of grain, growth rings, etc., all have allowable specs within the grade rule. Technological advancements have allowed mills to use a more efficient The Voice of the Masonry Industry

process in which to pull Scaffold Grade. MSR, or Machine Stress Rated Scaffold Plank, is produced by mills visually inspecting boards to be run through the MSR machine, which can qualify each plank for density and other characteristics defined by the SPIB grade rule. This process is also known as nondestructive proof testing, which results in more consistent flatwise bending strength in each piece compared to only visual grading for DI 65 scaffold plank. Both MSR and DI 65 are interchangeable and can be used as scaffold plank. Visually speaking, both products appear the same. Both have a mill/grade stamp that certifies that they meet OSHA/ANSI requirements for scaffold plank. They are both rodded, clipped and embossed on the edge with the customer’s name and the words “MEETS OSHA STANDARDS.” MSR scaffold plank takes the grade a step further with its advanced qualification and improved efficiency of pulling a higher grade. Readers should note the published letter from Bob Browder, director of the Lumber Division of Southern Pine Inspection Bureau, regarding machine and visually graded scaffold plank. You should ask the following questions regarding suppliers and manufacturers of DI 65 or MSR solid sawn scaffold plank: • Does the manufacturer carry liability insurance, and do they list you as one of their “names insured”? • Does the manufacturer provide a warranty? • Is there a third-party inspection agency that oversees the grading process? (SPIB, WCLB) • Does the manufacturer guarantee 100 percent scaffold plank in writing? • Does each scaffold plank have a mill/grade stamp? • Can the manufacturer supply a certificate of grade upon request? • Are the boards identified as “SCAFFOLD PLANK” as their intended use? No matter what grade you choose, it’s important to know what you are buying and what is behind the grade stamp. yMAS Jared Kennison is vice president and general manager of Kennison Forest Products, Inc. He can be reached at jared@kennisonforest.com.

Know what you are buying. These photos depict MSR Scaffold Plank.

www.masonrymagazine.com

December 2016

MASONRY

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SCAFFOLD PLANKS AND DECKING

Quiz:

Scaffold Planks and Platforms By Jeff Jack

Compiled by Karen D. Hickey

A PLANK IS NOT JUST A PIECE OF LUMBER. There is a lot to think through when purchasing and using planks for jobsite scaffolding. Test your knowledge on scaffold plank identification and inspection with this quiz, which recently appeared in a free MCAA webinar entitled “Scaffold Plank Identification and Inspection Processes.” 1. Which agency would you refer to for questions about the legitimacy of a grade stamp for solid sawn scaffold plank? a. SSFI. b. ALSC. c. SPIB. d. OSHA.

4. Which of these characteristics is allowed in a wood or engineered wood scaffold plank with some limitation? a. Checks. b. Narrow face splits. c. Delamination. d. End splits.

2. Which agency would you refer to for questions about the legitimacy of a third-party stamp for engineered wood scaffold plank? This could be LVL or edge-laminated or pin plank. a. IAS. b. SAIA. c. WCLIB. d. ANSI. e. AARP.

5. What marking must always appear on a solid sawn scaffold plank? a. OSHA. b. Grader’s initials or license number. c. Grade agency and mill number. d. “PROOF TESTED SCAF PLK.”

3. Which scaffold plank is required to have a capacity rating shown on it? a. Inner access decks. b. DI-65. c. LVL. d. All of the above. 22 |

MASONRY

6. Which would not be inspected for in a metal plank? a. Attachment of hooks, deck and cross-rungs. b. Indications of excessive heat. c. Rust. d. Soundness of welds. e. All of the above should be inspected for.

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

Which of the following statements is true? a. Visual inspection should be conducted before each use. b. Visual inspection should be conducted by a competent person. c. Visual inspection should be conducted by a qualified person. d. Visual inspection should be followed up with a mechanical evaluation. e. Visual inspection should be conducted by the SAIA or manufacturer.

8. Which statement is true about mechanical evaluation? a. Required by OSHA for all plank types on an annual basis. b. The responsibility of the plank manufacturer. c. More reliable alternative than visual inspection. d. Done incorrectly, this can be damaging to planks. e. Proof test by the plank manufacturer is the best evaluation.

9. What is the primary way to identify a scaffold plank from 2x10 lumber for other applications? a. Scaffold planks will have a brand or emboss. b. “OSHA APPROVED SCAFFOLD PLANKING.” c. Rods and clipped corners. d. The invoice from my supplier will indicate product. e. Grade stamp. 10. Which plank should not ever be allowed to return to service? a. Any plank that has previously been used as a mud sill. b. Sawn plank that has an 18-inch-long end split. c. LVL plank with cupping of ½ inch across the face. d. Metal plank with white rust on the deck and side rail. e. Composite plank with a saw kerf across the wide face.

Answers and Explanations 1. (b) ALSC.

The ALSC, or the American Lumber Standards Committee, publishes a list of all the grade agencies and images of their grade stamps. OSHA would be a good source for this information, but they are not the keeper of this information. SSFI has also published safety standards for scaffolding and shoring components. Incidentally, the SSFI has recently ceased to exist as an independent organization and is now part of the SAIA. 2. (a) IAS.

ANSI 10.8 is the document which tells you that you need to have a third-party logo on an engineered wood plank. However, ANSI does not tell you which agencies are accredited or on an approved list. The agency that keeps this list is IAS, the International Accreditation Services. The Plank and Platform Council at the SAIA has put together links on its website (www. saiaonline.org) to the IAS for its list of third-party agencies and to the ALSC for its list of grade agencies and their stamps. 3. (a) Inner access decks.

All of these planks do need some information on them about grade or rating. However, both the wood products (DI65 and LVL) would have just a grade, not a capacity rating. Capacity information (either allowable uniform load or number of persons allowed) is required on the inner access deck. In order to get the capacity rating for the wood products, you would have to look at the grade and then refer back to a span table published by OSHA, SAIA or the manufacturer. 4. (d) End splits.

Checks are allowed with no limitation as long as they are checks and not splits. Narrow face splits are not allowed. A www.masonrymagazine.com

true narrow face split can be a sign of physical damage or a potential manufacturing defect in an engineered wood product. Delamination is not allowed, as it would also be a sign of defective manufacturing. 5. (c) Grade agency and mill number.

The grade agency and mill number must be on every plank. While OSHA commonly appears on both solid sawn and engineered wood scaffold plank, it is not required. It may be a requirement of some customers or industries, but there is no regulatory requirement for it. The term “PROOF TESTED SCAF PLK” is also a good thing to look for as it can indicate proper product performance at time of manufacture, but a proof test is not required. 6. (e) All of the above should be inspected for.

You would want to see the hooks, deck and cross-rungs properly attached. You would not want to see indications of excessive heat deformation in the plank. You would want to look for rust, and differentiate between white rust that is permissible and red rust that is not permissible. You would also want to check for the soundness of welds. You’re inspecting all of these elements in a full inspection. 7. (a) Visual inspection should be conducted before each use.

The statements in (b), (c) and (d) are good ideas, and certainly not a problem, but they are not required. Regarding the last statement in (e), the SAIA won’t come out and inspect for you, and manufacturers are also unlikely to do so. The regulatory requirement from OSHA is that visual inspection should be conducted before each use. December 2016

MASONRY

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SCAFFOLD PLANKS AND DECKING

8. (d) Done incorrectly, can be damaging to planks.

OSHA does not require annual mechanical evaluations, though there are a handful of agencies that do require this internally. There are also facilities that have this requirement for their contractors. While many manufacturers have a proof test, mechanical evaluation is also not a requirement or the responsibility of the manufacturer. Mechanical evaluation can be a great supplement to visual inspection, but it is not an alternative. The visual inspection is still what is required by OSHA. There are good and bad mechanical evaluation methods, and some can do more harm to your inventory than good. Ask your manufacturer or supplier for their recommended specs regarding loads, spans, etc., and how to properly conduct the evaluation. Some proof tests can be very accurate and informative, and others not so much. A proof test only provides information about a plank at the time of manufacturing, not after it was put into service.

indicate the product grade. But the only reliable way to confirm a scaffold plank is the grade stamp. It shows the agency whose stamp confirms the material is in-grade. 10. (a) Any plank that has previously been used as a mud sill.

While a plank with an 18-inch-long end split is not permitted to be used, that plank can be trimmed back to remove the end split and go back into service as a shorter plank. While you would not want to use a plank with cupping of ½ inch, a lot of cupped plank, particularly LDL plank, can be dried out, allowing the moisture to equilibrate across the plank. This will straighten the plank back out, and there is a good potential the plank could be returned to service. There are certain types of rust that you would not want to have in a serviceable plank, but white rust is not an indication that the plank’s strength has been compromised, so it could be used again. You also would not want to use a composite plank with a saw kerf across the wide face, but the plank could be cut to eliminate the kerf. yMAS Jeff Jack is forming and shoring specialist for RedBuilt. He can be reached at jjack@redbuilt.com

9. (e) Grade stamp.

Many planks will have an emboss on them, and many will claim to comply with OSHA by showing “OSHA” on the emboss. Many planks will have rods and clipped corners to improve end-split resistance. The invoice will usually

The SAIA, or the Scaffold & Access Industry Association, promotes safety in the use of scaffolding. More information on identification and inspection of scaffold planks can be found at www.saiaonline.org.

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The GROUT-N-HOPPER features a remote-controlled valve at the hopper, eliminating heavy, uncontrollable hoses.

www.cummermanufacturing.com 24 |

MASONRY

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

The WATT-R-TANK is a large capacity, heated water tank, eliminating the need to close in the mixing site.

563-552-2733 The Voice of the Masonry Industry

World of Concrete and the 2017 MCAA Annual Convention

Get Ready for

World of Concrete and the

2017 MCAA Annual Convention THE 2017 WORLD OF CONCRETE (WOC)/WORLD OF MASONRY EXPOSITION WILL BE HELD JAN. 16–20 AT THE LAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER. This annual international event, dedicated to the commercial concrete and masonry construction industries, will feature indoor and outdoor exhibits, an extensive education program, and exciting competitions like MCAA’s Fastest Trowel on the Block. It’s a can’t-miss event for every masonry professional.

By Karen D. Hickey

As in past years, the 2017 MCAA Annual Convention will be held jointly with WOC.

Spectators walk into the Masonry Madness area of the Gold Lot to watch the 2016 competitions.

26 |

MASONRY

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

certification examinations, hands-on training and interactive train-thetrainer workshops. MCAA will host two special courses, the Masonry Foreman Development Course on Jan. 16–17 and the Silica Train-the-Trainer Course on Jan. 17. OSHA rolled out the new silica rule in 2016, and one of the components of the rule is to have a competent person on each jobsite by June 23, 2017. Attendees of the Silica Train-the-Trainer Course will learn not only how to create the required written program for the new silica rule, but also the essentials to pass along to the foremen who will be the competent people on jobsites. Other seminars for which At the 2016 World of Masonry, Franklin Wagner demonstrated a saw from IQ Power Tools that M C A A m e m b e r s c a n re c e i ve collects nearly 100% of the dust while it cuts. special pricing include a Masonry Here’s what’s in store if you attend: Wall Bracing Seminar and a Storm Shelter Program. The Storm Shelter Program was created partially in World of Masonry response to the new code requiring schools to have storm World of Masonry will showcase more than 40,000 shelters. This program is broken down into five different square feet of technology, tools and equipment pertaining to courses: Introduction and Background, Anchoring masonry. New for 2017 will be a Concrete Masonry Area in Dowels, Connections, Quality Control and Assurance, the North Hall. This area will feature everything for producand Reinforcing and Grouting. Classes can be taken ers of concrete masonry, including admixtures, pigments, as a series or individually. Upon completion of all five and equipment and supplies. The World of Masonry exhibit courses, the participant will earn a Credentialed Storm will start on Tuesday, Jan. 17 and continue through Friday Shelter Installer (CSSI) credential. morning, Jan. 20. Topgolf Night Join MCAA for a fun evening at Topgolf Las Vegas at MGM Grand Hotel and Casino on Monday, Jan. 16. Topgolf is a golf entertainment complex where players hit golf balls containing computer microchips that track each shot’s accuracy and distance while also awarding points for hitting targets on the outfield. All proceeds from this event will help support MAC PEC (the MCAA political education fund) and MCAA political issues. Don’t miss this new and fun event! Educational Courses WO C o f f e r s d o z e n s o f educational courses, as well as www.masonrymagazine.com

Bill Lula of Masonry Estimating Service taught the Advanced Masonry Estimating Class during WOC 2016. December 2016

MASONRY

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World of Concrete and the 2017 MCAA Annual Convention In addition, The Masonry Society will present its popular Special Inspection of Structural Masonry Construction course on Wednesday, Jan. 18. Attendees will learn code inspection requirements, proper placement of materials, mortar and grout, how to determine the compressive strength of masonry and appropriate severe weather procedures. This course is excellent preparation for the ICC/ TMS Structural Masonry Special Inspectors Certification Examination. Visit www.worldofconcrete.com and www.masoncontractors.org for more details or to register for these educational events. MCAA Committee Meetings On Tuesday, Jan. 17, the MCAA Committee chairs will meet to present a brief overview of accomplishments from the past year and goals for the upcoming year. Members of the MCAA are encouraged to attend as many committee meetings as they would like. The MCAA will also host a Union Committee meeting on Thursday, Jan. 19 for all MCAA members who are signatory to union contracts. South of 40 MCAA’ s S outh of 40 C ommittee will offer a fun event for its membership on Tuesday, Jan. 17 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Señor Frog’s Las Vegas. Look for new entertainment at this year’s event. Appetizers and drinks will be served throughout the evening.

Matt Cash of Huntley Brothers Co. won the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 Carolinas regional qualifier. Along with his tender/coach Chet Huntley, he will be making a return trip to Las Vegas in January.

MCAA Annual Meeting The MCAA will hold its annual meeting on Thursday, Jan. 19. The meeting is structured to allow interaction and participation from members. Members of the MCAA are asked to attend and take an active role in shaping the future of the association and the masonry industry. An update on activity of The Masonry Foundation will be given as well. MASONRY MADNESS™ The MCAA’s Masonry Skills Challenge, the MCAA’s Fastest Trowel on the Block and the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® will once again take place on Wednesday during MASONRY MADNESS™. Ranked as a top attraction during the World of Concrete/ World of Masonry tradeshow, this “trowel and mortar party” takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Center’s Gold Lot. Spectators and webcast viewers will witness an amazing display of human skill and endurance as more than 75 masonry warriors fight for the champion title in their respective competitions. 28 |

MASONRY

The Masonry Skills Challenge is an annual competition of masonry apprentices in their first, second and third years in which their building skills are tested after seeing drawings just moments beforehand. In 2016, contestants had only three hours to complete the project with the given materials. To find out more about the competition and the prizes, visit www.masonryskillschallenge.com. The annual MCAA Fastest Trowel on the Block competition pits journeyman masons, accompanied by their favorite tender, against one another in a show of speed. They have 20 minutes to complete as much of a 30-foot-long wall as possible with the most accuracy. More information is available at www.fastesttrowel.com. Prior to the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® competition, each team’s tender proves who is the fastest in the Toughest Tender contest. The world’s top mason tenders compete for the fastest time setting up their SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® workstation. They haul tons of brick, block, equipment and materials to beat their peers and take home $2,500 in cash and prizes. Finally, the nation’s best bricklayer is crowned each year during the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500® competition at

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

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World of Concrete and the 2017 MCAA Annual Convention the World of Concrete/World of Masonry in Las Vegas. Each team consists of a mason and mason tender building a 26-foot, 8-inch, double-wythe brick wall. The most bricks laid in one hour and counted under the quality rules wins the event. The 22 regional winners from this past summer and fall will compete against the returning 2016 World Champion, Scott Tuttle of Utah, and SPEC MIX TOP CRAFTSMAN®, Darian Douthit of Oklahoma. More than $100,000 in cash and prizes will be given away, but the champion will be awarded the title “World’s Best Bricklayer” and handed the keys to drive home in the grand prize, a new Ford F-250 4x4 SuperDuty Truck. For more information on the competition, the prizes and the sponsors, visit www. specmixbricklayer500.com. Closing Dinner The MCAA Convention will close with a dinner on Thursday, Jan. 19 at Fogo de Chão, Las Vegas, where the newest members of the Masonry Hall of Fame will be inducted. The Masonry Hall of Fame was created by the MCAA to recognize and award those individuals who have dedicated their lives to the masonry industry. This night of fellowship with fellow mason contractors is truly memorable.

Darian Douthit, who won the title of SPEC MIX TOP CRAFTSMAN® in 2016, will return to World of Concrete in 2017 to compete against the regional winners.

Registration Registration for WOC/World of Masonry and the MCAA Annual Convention is available online at www. masoncontractors.org/convention. Register today!

Combine all of the above with four days of business-boosting benefits and opportunities to connect with the industry’s top pros and visionaries, and you’ll see why World of Concrete is the masonry industry’s flagship event. See you there! yMAS

At World of Concrete 2017, new faces will join these 2016 Masonry Hall of Fame inductees (left to right): Robert V. “Buddie” Barnes Jr., J. Gregg Borchelt, Richard Matthews, Harry E. McGraw, Ryan M. O’Brien and John J. Smith Sr.

30 |

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December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

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1 2 3

T R O W E L

TECH

Jeremy Douglas

Mason contractors across the country face similar challenges when out in the field. With the help of Hohmann and Barnard’s director of technical services, Jeremy Douglas, Masonry delivers answers to some of your most technical, complicated questions. Q. I see a lot of masonry contractors installing fluid-applied air barrier systems. I have a couple of projects coming up where we were going to subcontract the barrier installation, but I think I’d like to see us move toward keeping that in-house. Do you have any advice to help us be successful? A. Do I ever. You’re right, more contractors are performing the air barrier work themselves, and I think this is a really good thing. The air barrier systems will usually interface with the flashing materials and veneer anchors, so I firmly believe the mason contractor should have as much control over that interface as he/she is comfortable with. Also, on CMU backup projects, you have the ultimate control over surface preparation for the barrier system, which is so critical to the successful application of a fluid-applied system. My advice is as follows: 1. Understand what you are trying to achieve. A fluid-applied system is meant to be completely continuous across the entirety of the building at a specified thickness. This means the integrity of the backup wall must be solid, any holes or gaps must be filled or covered prior to application, and there must be no gaps or voids in your coverage of the substrate or where you wind up connecting to the roofing or below-grade waterproofing system. 2. Rent the sprayer. Buy the sprayer if you like, but until you find one that works best for your company relative to size, output and cost, you can test drive 34 |

MASONRY

spray equipment from your local supply yard or rental house. But whatever you do, use the spray equipment. Rolling the fluid-applied systems will usually lead to applications of less than the required dry-thickness, and ultimately a loss of continuity — not to mention the fact that you will be on site three or four times longer than if you were spraying. Most manufacturers have certification classes for application of their fluid-applied systems. Be sure to take at least one. In some cases, it will be required on certain projects; but more importantly, the information you will gain will reinforce your ability to deliver a solid product. If you have the option, use fluidapplied transitional materials. Some air barrier systems have both traditional self-adhering tapes and fluid-applied transitions that you will apply with a caulking gun and a trowel. Provided it is self-supporting, a fluid-applied transition will be much faster to apply, adhere better to the substrate, and achieve continuity better than the selfadhered tapes. 3. Be sure of what will be required of you at the terminations/transitions of the fluid-applied system. If the system is to terminate inside of a window opening, establish ahead of time how far into that opening you are required to go so you connect to the window unit as intended. It is unlikely you will connect the fluid-applied material directly to the roofing system or the below-grade waterproofing system, so plan out those transitions ahead of time and ensure that the transitions are without compatibility issues.

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

4. Check penetrations for air leakage. Some barriers seal better than others, depending on their elasticity and dry-thickness. Any penetrations that are made to the barrier will need to be airtight, whether the air barrier acts as the sealing agent or you use a secondary tape, washer or other sealant to accomplish the same thing or to act as a redundancy. 5. There will often be a third-party consultant who will advise on the air barrier installation throughout the process. It may sometimes seem as if they are being difficult or picky, but in the end they are trying to help you deliver the best installation possible. Try to work with them without taking their comments personally. 6. Partner with your manufacturer. They are your best resource for technical information, troubleshooting, and problem solving and will be a necessary part of your process on every project. While not every issue you may come across is addressed here, this is a short list of the issues some air barrier installers struggle through when learning what these systems are all about. I absolutely support you and other contractors who want to better control the quality of the installed components of your wall systems. Best of luck to you. yMAS Jeremy Douglas, CSI, CCPR, has nearly 20 years of experience in the masonry industry working with veneer systems. He is director of architectural services for Hohmann & Barnard and can be reached at JeremyD@h-b.com.

The Voice of the Masonry Industry

H O H M A N N

B A R N A R D,

I N C.

PUSHING THE ENVELOPE SINCE 1933

Duty

Hohmann & Barnard, Inc. was honored to have its ENVIRO-BARRIER™ Air and Vapor Barrier chosen for the Davis Barracks at West Point Military Academy.

Honor

For nearly 84 years, Hohmann & Barnard has been pushing the envelope in masonry construction by engineering innovative solutions to the complex challenges of today’s wall systems. This includes our ENVIRO-BARRIER Air & Vapor Barrier, an asphalt & VOC free fluid applied product for easy application. We have also developed fluid-applied sealants and detailing products that are fully compatible with our ENVIRO-BARRIER making it easy to seal the wall at windows, penetrations, and other openings without worrying about air barrier integrity.

Country

It is an honor to be a part of this historic facility dedicated to educating and training the future leaders who will protect and serve this country.

w w w. h - b . c o m | 1 - 8 0 0 - 6 4 5 - 0 6 1 6 ENVIRO-BARRIER™ Installation by Acranom Masonry - Middlefield, CT

BUSINESS

BUILDING

By George Hedley

Make Project Team Leaders Accountable and Responsible for Results If I asked each of your construction project managers, field superintendents and crew foremen exactly what they were accountable and responsible for, would they know? Could they list what targets, goals and results they were trying to accomplish on the projects they are working on? One of the biggest problems business owners and managers have is getting their people to be accountable. But this problem is also one of the easiest challenges to fix. When your team leaders don’t know what they’re accountable or responsible for and don’t have specific targets or goals, how can you expect them to achieve the results you want? Start by making it very clear what your people are expected to achieve on their projects. If you want a project to be completed on July 1, write it out in large letters on a poster board in the job trailer for all to see. Then everyone will know the date without any misunderstandings. If you want the project manager to make $50,000 gross profit on a job, write it boldly on a chart for all to see on his office wall. That way everyone will know the goal, and will stay focused on hitting the target. If you want to meet or beat your estimated production crew hour goals on a certain job, give your foreman a scorecard with the total job hours as his target, and then keep him updated every week on how well the crew is doing. Project Manager Job Descriptions Everyone in your company needs a detailed job accountability and responsibility scorecard, listing what he 36 |

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or she is accountable and responsible for. Instead of generic job descriptions that aren’t specific, take time to develop exactly what you want your people to accomplish. For example, a typical ineffective project manager job description says something like, “The project manager has a key role as captain of the team. The PM is the common link from business development to project completion. A PM has a clear understanding of the chain of events in the construction process and can foresee what impact changes have on the three major areas: cost, schedule and quality.” Blah, blah, blah! This type of job description becomes a list of big words that no one can understand or get their hands around. What you need are lists of what you want your key people to do and what they are responsible for. With short, impactful lists of accountabilities, they will know if they achieve their goals and how they will be judged. For example, an effective job description for a project manager could be written as follows: “The PM is 100 percent accountable and responsible to finish projects on or under budget; write all required subcontracts and purchase orders within the first 20 days of starting projects; maintain and update project budgets and job cost reports by the 10th of every month; invoice customers by month end; document all project issues, notices, change order requests, requests for information, etc. within three days of occurrence or per contract,” and so on.

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

Who’s Accountable and Responsible? When I work with construction company owners and managers, I ask who’s responsible for a safe jobsite, quality, meeting the budget or finishing on time. They typical answer is, “Everyone!” When everyone is responsible, no one is responsible. Only one person can be accountable for each thing that happens on your jobsites. Only one person actually directs the field workers to do quality work without mistakes. When foremen don’t do the final walk-through with project owners, they are not accountable for getting their crew’s work approved. And when not clearly accountable for poor workmanship or call-backs, foremen don’t take time to make sure quality work is performed and no punch-list items exist before they leave the jobsite. Who is really responsible for project safety? Is it your safety director, superintendent or foreman? The foreman is responsible for the safety of his crew and must be the ultimate responsible person in charge of his jobsite at all times. If the foreman is not sure, he’ll assume that someone else is checking for safety instead of him. What’s Important Must Be Identified and Tracked In order to get project crew leaders to accept accountability for results, they must be clear on what they’re responsible for. One of the best exercises I do when coaching companies is to get all of the project managers, field superThe Voice of the Masonry Industry

intendents and crew foremen together. We make a list of everything required to meet the project goals, including: 1. Budget vs. actual job costs. 2. Field production results. a. Crew labor. b. Company equipment. c. Material. 3. Schedule, milestones and completion dates. a. Material and equipment delivered on time. b. Subcontractor performance. 4. Quality and workmanship. 5. Safety. 6. Contract management. a. Paperwork and correspondence. b. Documentation. c. Change orders. d. Obtaining approvals. 7. Invoicing and payment. 8. Customer satisfaction and relationships. The next step is to decide what makes for excellent performance in each category and assign a responsible team leader. For example, the team may determine that, in order to achieve the project budget, they must get together and review the bid estimate at job start-up and then decide on an actual job budget the team will work together to achieve. The project manager will be accountable to create, maintain and track a “budget versus actual job cost” report, to be completed by month end and then reviewed with the team. As another example, to maintain a safe jobsite with zero accidents, the foreman will be accountable to do a daily job walkthrough to inspect for safety concerns and violations, and turn in a weekly report of the findings. Finally, as a third example, the field superintendent will be assigned the responsibility to maintain and track the overall project schedule, meet the completion date, and turn in a four-week look-ahead schedule every Friday as part of his job description. Email GH@HardhatPresentations.com to get your copy of “Accountable and Responsible Construction Job Descriptions.” To make your project team leaders responsible for achieving results, they need to know what results are expected, and who is accountable for them. In only a few hours, you can make a complete list of what you want each of your leadership positions to be responsible for. Then you’ll have exact results to hold your project leaders accountable. yMAS As a professional construction BIZCOACH and popular industry speaker, George Hedley helps contractors increase profits, grow and get their companies to work! He is the best-selling author of “Get Your Construction Business To Always Make A Profit!” available at his online bookstore at www.HardhatPresentations.com. E-mail GH@ HardhatPresentations.com to sign-up for his free e-newsletter, join a peer mastermind BIZGROUP, attend a BIZ-BUILDER Boot Camp, implement the BIZ-BUILDER BLUEPRINT, or get a discount for online courses at www.HardhatBizSchool.com. George Hedley, CSP CPBC, HARDHAT Presentations, 800-851-8553 www.hardhatbizschool.com www.masonrymagazine.com

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Visit us at the World of Concrete booth N1546 for discounts and prizes

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The Voice of the Masonry Industry

INDUSTRY

NEWS

Please submit your news and events to: Dan Kamys • Email: dkamys@masoncontractors.org

U.S. House Approves Concrete Masonry Products Promotion Act

Tony Conant Appointed as New ARA Executive Vice President and CEO

On Nov. 15, the U.S. House of Representatives approved HR 985, the Concrete Masonry Products, Research, Education and Promotion Act of 2015, by a vote of 355 to 38. The legislation provides authorization for the concrete masonry industry to pursue the creation of an industry-wide commodity check-off program. Such programs have successfully enabled other industries to pool resources to support market development efforts related to the commodity products that they produce. “The attributes of concrete masonry are well suited to constructing modern, high-performing buildings. A concrete masonry check-off program will simply enable our industry to better organize to promote those values to the marketplace,” said NCMA chairman of the board Patrick Sauter of Kings Material LLC. “This is an important step in achieving the necessary authorization for the program before we can present the program for final approval by the concrete masonry manufacturing companies operating in America.” Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-KY) and Rep. Kathy Castor (D-FL) sponsored the bill and were successful in compiling an impressive co-sponsor list of 247 House representatives that was balanced with nearly equal numbers of Democrats and Republicans. The co-sponsor list was indicative of active grassroots effort on behalf of the concrete masonry industry, which has small manufacturing plants in every state in the country and in most congressional districts. For more information on the C o n c re t e Ma s o n r y C h e c k - o f f , visit www.cmucheckoff.com or www. masoncontractors.org/positions/ concrete-masonry-checkoff.

The American Rental Association (ARA) board of directors named Tony Conant to the position of executive vice president/CEO, effective midNovember. He succeeds Christine Wehrman, who retired after 16 years with the association. Conant is the fourth executive vice

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president/CEO of the ARA since its founding in 1955. He most recently served as COO at the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), headquartered in Tony Conant Phoenix. In his COO position, Conant was responsible for enabling operational excellence across News continued on page 40

Women in Stone Announces Winner of First-Ever Empowerment Scholarship Women in Stone has announced that the winner of the first-ever Women in Stone Empowerment Scholarship is Jessica Lussier of Granit Design. Jessica will receive an all-expense paid trip to TISE 2017 in January, where she will shadow industry professionals and participate in education sessions and networking events, including the MIA+BSI Awards Luncheon. Jessica has been employed in the stone industry for two and a half Jessica Lussier years. In her application, Jessica wrote: “Being in the stone industry has shown me how interesting a workday can really be. This is a constantly growing industry that I could never let go of.” In a letter nominating Jessica for this award, Jean-Christophe Peters wrote: “Jessica has demonstrated excellent communication and analytical skills. She’s charismatic, highly intelligent, and to qualify her as driven would be an understatement. She has limitless potential and is well on her way to realizing it.” The Women in Stone Empowerment Scholarship was created to help women gain a better understanding of different sectors of the industry. Kim Dumais, Women in Stone co-chair, commented: “The Empowerment Scholarship is designed to provide an opportunity that otherwise may not be accessible to women in the industry. The scholarship offers a unique opportunity to be personally guided, mentored, and exposed to all aspects of our industry.” yMAS To learn more about Women in Stone, visit www.naturalstoneinstitute.org/ womeninstone.

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the company and building capabilities for ISM’s future growth. As the leader of the certification, publications, membership, research, finance, IT and human resources functions, Conant helped to enable ISM’s vision by managing project prioritization, decision ownership, effective resource alignment, measurement and accountability across the company. Conant has spent more than 20 years developing advanced practices in operations and supply chain at worldclass companies, including Intel, BASF, Whirlpool and Bank of America. Previously, he was the vice president of operations and share services at One Touch Direct, an innovative direct marketing company, where he oversaw 200 percent revenue and headcount growth in his five-year tenure. Conant earned a B.S. degree in operations management from Madonna University, Livonia, Mich., and an M.B.A., finance and international economics,

from the University of Florida, Gainesville. He also completed his Six Sigma Black Belt certification from the University of California at San Diego. For more information about the ARA, visit www.ARArental.org.

Western Specialty Contractors Hires National Account Manager Western Specialty Contractors has hired Crystal Moyer of Eureka, Mo., as a national account manager. In this position, Moyer will assist in achieving annual sales objectives by providing marketing, sales and business development leadership. Additionally, she will develop corporate marketing tracking, coordinate seminars and presentations, improve sales growth of national accounts, implement corporate marketing plans and identify potential new key accounts, among other responsibilities. Moyer has eight years of business development experience. Prior to Western, Moyer worked as director of employer relations at Kaplan University in St. Louis, Mo., and as a recruiter for Career Education Corp. in Fenton, Mo. She has a B.S. degree in business administration from Missouri Baptist University and an M.B.A. from Webster University.

Apex Tool Group Appoints Ross Porter Jr. as SVP and President, Global Power Tools Business Unit Apex Tool Group, LLC, a global leader in industrial hand and power tools, announced the appointment of Ross Porter Jr. as senior vice president and president of its Global Power Tools business unit. Porter reports to James J. Roberts, chief executive officer of Apex Tool Group. Porter joins Apex Tool Group after holding senior executive roles at both Newell Brands and Chamberlain Industries, including general management, finance, corporate development and investor relations.

New Members The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is proud to welcome the following new members to the Association. The MCAA would like to thank them for joining their fellow mason contractors nationwide in helping to build a strong and successful masonry industry.

DECEMBER 2016 City Wide Masonry

De Pere, Wis. (920) 336-7013 www.citywidemasonry.com Contractor Member

Delaware Quarries Inc.

New Hope, Pa. (215) 862-1670 www.delawarequarries.com National Associate Member

Freddy’s Masonry Inc. Bealeton, Va. (540) 379-4396 Contractor Member

Gilchrist Masonry

Mt. Pleasant, S.C. www.gilchristmasonry.com Contractor Member

Summit Brick Co.

Pueblo, Colo. (719) 542-8278 www.summitbrick.com Regional Associate Member

Discover the many benefits your company is missing by not becoming a member of the MCAA. Call 800-536-2225 or visit www.masoncontractors.org/join to join the MCAA today. Together, we are stronger.

He worked for two decades at Newell Brands in senior executive roles, most recently serving as president of three global business units, where he led strong Ross Porter brand building and new product development initiatives for the Construction Tools/Accessories, Hardware and Office Products divisions. Earlier at Newell, Porter was vice president and CFO for two business News continued on page 42

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The Voice of the Masonry Industry

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groups, and was the company’s investor relations leader. After his tenure with Newell, Porter joined Chamberlain Industries as its executive vice president, corporate development, and then served as president and COO of its Controlled Products Systems Group. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Wisconsin.

Boral Sells Its 40 Percent Interest in Boral CSR Bricks Joint Venture Boral Limited has agreed to sell its 40 percent interest in the Boral CSR Bricks joint venture to CSR Ltd. for a total cash consideration of $133.9 million. The sale was expected to be effective Nov. 1, 2016. In the year to June 30, 2016, Boral recognized an equity-accounted post-tax earnings contribution of $11.7 million from its 40 percent interest in the joint venture. As a result of the divestment, Boral expects approximately a $6.5 million lower equity earnings contribution in FY2017 relative to FY2016. Boral will recognize a $20–25 million post-tax profit on the sale, which will be reported as a significant item in FY2017.

Boral retains ownership of the Scoresby brick site in Victoria, and will continue to lease it to CSR. Boral has an option to terminate the lease in 2025 with three years’ prior notice. Boral’s CEO and managing director, Mike Kane, said that while the joint venture has performed well and delivered significant synergies following integration of the two businesses, “now is the right time to realize value for the business and redirect capital to Boral’s core operations in line with our strategy.”

Utah Masonry Council 2016 Excellence in Masonry Design, Lifetime Service Awards The deadline for entries for the Utah Masonry Council 2016 Excellence in Masonry Design Awards is Friday, Dec. 9, 2016. Take your photos and submit your 2016 projects at www. utahmasonrycouncil.org. Then make plans to join the Utah Masonry Council for the 2016 Awards Dinner on Jan. 27, 2017, at the Marriott City Center Hotel, Salt Lake City, Utah. The association’s Lifetime Masonry Service Award will also be presented at the dinner to the person who has provided

OSHA Releases Small Entity Compliance Guide for Respirable Crystalline Silica

OSHA has announced that its Small Entity Compliance Guide for Construction is now available in regard to the Final Rule on crystalline silica released earlier this year. The guide is intended to help small business employers comply with the rule by explaining each requirement in easy-to-understand language. Enforcement of the final rule in construction is due to begin June 23, 2017. yMAS

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a lifetime of service and demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication to the masonry industry. Submit your nominations for this award today.

Winners of Second Annual I BUILT THIS! Video Contest Announced NCCER and Build Your Future are proud to announce the 2016 I BUILT THIS! Video Contest winners. Winners were chosen based on how closely they followed the contest rules. The 2016 winners are as follows: SECONDARY First Place: Max Roeder, Springdale District Television Second Place: Simon Anderson, Mahomet-Seymour High School

POST-SECONDARY First Place: Sebastian Diffey, North Arkansas College

HONORABLE MENTION Hunter Alums, Uncommon Construction

The entries were required to showcase projects that are relevant to the construction or maintenance industries, using a 1- to 3-minute video overview of the entire project. For more information about the contest and to watch the winning videos, visit www.nccer.org/i-built-this.

General Shale’s N.C. Locations Win Top State Safety Awards General Shale, a longtime provider of brick for high-quality commercial and residential projects throughout the nation, has received the North Carolina Department of Labor’s top annual safety awards for a production facility and several retail locations across the state. For the fifth consecutive year, the North Carolina Department of Labor presented the Gold Award, which recognizes outstanding health and safety efforts in 2015, to each of General Shale’s retail locations in Charlotte, Kernersville and Raleigh. General Shale’s retail location in Wilmington received the The Voice of the Masonry Industry

Gold Award for the sixth consecutive year. The Gold Award is the top annual safety award issued by North Carolina’s Department of Labor. The company’s Brickhaven production facility, near Moncure, received a Silver Award. Headquartered in Johnson City, Tenn., General Shale is the North American subsidiary of Wienerberger AG and a leading manufacturer of brick, one of the world’s oldest green building materials. The North Carolina Department of Labor’s Safety Awards Program recognizes private and public firms throughout the state that achieve and maintain good health and safety records. To qualify for a safety award, a company must have had no fatalities during the calendar year at the location for which the award was given, and must have maintained an incidence rate that is at least 50 percent below the average for its particular industry group. For more information about General Shale, visit www.generalshale.com.

PROSOCO unveils lineup of special sessions at WOC PROSOCO has unveiled a series of educational sessions and panel discussions at the upcoming 2017 World of Concrete, Jan. 16–20, in Las Vegas. Attendees are encouraged to reserve their seats early for these free sessions, which have limited space. - “Multipurpose” Misses the Mark — Avoid Facade Cleaning Catastrophes Tuesday, Jan. 17 and Wednesday, Jan. 18, noon–1:30 pm PST

- Silica Dust Rules: What You Need to Know Tuesday, Jan. 17, 3–4:30 pm PST

- A Retail Success Story: ShopKo’s Switch to Concrete Flooring Wednesday, Jan. 18, 10–11:30 am PST

- Bridging the Gap Between Building Envelope Design & Common Construction Practices Wednesday, Jan. 18, 3–4:30 pm PST

Cintec America Provides Anchoring Systems for NYC Subway Station Retrofit Project

The ceiling panel attachment at the side wall and an additional anchor in the center edge of the panel attachment to the ceiling.

New York City Transit managers had learned in 1999 that a portion of the ceiling at 181st Street was at risk of collapse. However, it did not begin a comprehensive assessment of the ceiling’s condition until June 2009. On Aug. 16, 2009, at 10:18 p.m., a large section of the arched brick ceiling at the 181st Street Station on the IRT Line fell onto the platforms and tracks. Fortunately, no one was injured by the falling bricks, and subway service to the station was immediately suspended. After an exhaustive NYC Transit Authority testing regimen and evaluation of all the anchoring systems available in the United States, the Cintec custom-designed anchoring solution was selected to hold up the fire- and waterproof ceiling panels over the train station. Cintec anchors were also selected to retain the bricks that line the walls. A custom-designed crane was used to raise the overhead panels in place up to the ceiling, and they were then attached to a mounting clip system held in place by Cintec anchors. All the construction was done on a raised platform above the train station and the tracks, though this station is 120 feet below ground. yMAS Visit www.prosoco.com/woc for more information and to register for the courses, or visit their WOC booth #S10946.

Builtech Continues Rapid Expansion With Another Four New Hires Builtech Services LLC, a leading national general contracting and construction management firm, continues its rapid company expansion with the addition of two industry veterans to its Schaumburg headquarters and

another two new positions added to the West Loop-based Builtech Interiors Group. The new hires are the latest step in a three-year plan to expand its services across numerous markets, including general construction and corporate interiors. Liz Brennan will serve as Builtech’s director of market-

Elizabeth Brennan

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ing, drawing on her previous experience at Stantec (formerly VOA), where she served as marketing manager. She will be responsible for developing Builtech’s brand through a wide variety of marketing initiatives. Mar k Winger, L E E D A P, j o i n s Builtech headquarters as a senior project manager, where he brings 20 years of exper ience in Mark Winger

construction management within the Chicago area. He most recently served as senior project manager with Wight & Company and has worked within a variety of markets, including K-12, higher education, co m mu n i c a t i o n s facilities, and other commercial projects. Wi t h 2 0 ye a rs of corporate interiors experience, Bob Schumann will serve as senior superinBob Schumann

Nebraska Masonry Alliance Presents Excellence in Masonry Design Award

tendent for Builtech Interiors Group. He previously served as senior superintendent for ECI. After spending the last five years with Norcon, Peter Peter McCormick McCor mick w i l l join Builtech Interiors Group as a project manager. Prior to his time at Norcon, he served as a project engineer for Wm. A. Randolph, Inc. Founded in 2002, Builtech has provided general contracting and construction management services across a wide range of industries, including industrial, residential, retail, hospitality and office interiors.

Dodge Data & Analytics and STACK Construction Technologies Announce New Partnership

The Nebraska Masonry Alliance, in conjunction with AIA Nebraska, presented the Don Littler Excellence in Masonry Design Award to The Clark Enersen Partners of Lincoln for their project, Farm Credit Services of America Corporate Office Building 2 in Omaha, Neb. This project stood out among the entries for its technical design elements and skilled craftsmanship. The entry description clearly articulates the design intent: “The west façade is an abstract representation of wind blowing through a wheat field depicted through brick pattern. Two brick colors set at varying depths and orientation achieve this effect. The different depths of brick provide an ever-changing pattern of shadows throughout the day, superimposed over an aerial view of the Midwest topography. “At times, the shadows create large circular forms, referencing the tracks left by irrigation systems in the agricultural landscape. To create the superimposed circular shadow lines, the façade is separated into three fields, each with their own unique combination of brick pattern relief. The façade’s angular form further emphasizes the movement of the brick pattern, and also alludes to the shape of a nearby creek. The solidity of brick conveys a sense of permanence and stability that is characteristic of the client’s agricultural heritage.” The Nebraska Masonry Alliance would like to thank and congratulate all of the design team at The Clark Enersen Partners for their exceptional work on this project. yMAS For more information on the Nebraska Masonry Alliance, visit www.nebraskamasonryalliance.org.

Dodge Data & Analy tics has partnered with STACK Construction Technologies to integrate Dodge’s data and analytics with STACK’s cloudbased takeoff and estimating tools. The partnership will put Dodge’s extensive project data and STACK’s easy-to-use takeoff and estimating software in the hands of contractors and subcontractors through a seamless user experience. Dodge Data & Analytics provides comprehensive intelligence on commercial construction projects to customers at every step in the design and build process. STACK Construction Technologies is a leading Software-as-a-Service provider and the industry’s only 100 percent cloudbased solution for construction takeoff and estimating. The companies’ integrated tools are expected to become available in January 2017. Having Dodge data available through STACK software, and with STACK’s capabilities accessible through Dodge’s platform, customers will be better equipped to successfully plan, bid, and execute on the projects that drive their businesses. To l e a r n m o r e , v i s i t w w w. construction.com. News continued on page 47

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The Voice of the Masonry Industry

SILICA TRAIN-THE-TRAINER COURSE On June 23, 2017, OSHA’s silica rule will be implemented. All jobsites will be required to have: 1. 2.

A written exposure control plan. A competent person who has been trained on the exposure control plan and silica on a jobsite.

The MCAA’s Silica Train-the-Trainer Course is a six-hour program that will train a key employee to train other employees to be a competent person with regard to the written exposure control plan. Certificates will be provided to those who complete the program. MCAA Members ............................................................... $350.00 Non-Members ................................................................... $700.00 Non-Members (MCAA Membership Included) .................. $850.00 SPACE IS LIMITED. Contact the MCAA at 800-536-2225 or visit www.masoncontractors.org/train-the-trainer for more information.

WE ARE MASONRY. TOGETHER WE ARE STRONGER. www.masoncontractors.org

February 20 Syracuse, NY February 27 Chicago, IL February 28 Milwaukee, WI March 7 St. Louis, MO March 9 Columbus, OH March 21 Dallas, TX April 6 Charlotte, NC April 27 Orlando, FL May 3 Phoenix, AZ May 10 San Diego, CA May 11 Northern CA May 30 Washington, DC (Metro) June 7 Denver, CO

A D V E R T O R I A L

Contractor Tip of the

Month | By Damian Lang

Know Your Target and Set Expectations for Your Team to Hit It Have you ever searched for something, not knowing what you were looking for, and found it? No? Me neither. That question would seem silly to a lot of people, but it’s not silly to contractors. Unfortunately, most contractors have their team aiming for an unidentified target — expecting them to hit it without first setting clear expectations of what the target is. How about your team members? Do they know and — better yet — understand the targets you set in order to achieve your goals? Or are you allowing them to just do the best they can? If it’s the latter, you have a problem, but it’s a fairly common one. A contractor recently asked me if I would help him design an incentive plan for his team. I agreed, and the first thing I asked was what his total sales goal for the year was. He answered that it was around $10 million per year. My next question regarded his gross and net profit goals, and he had no clue as to an answer. In fact, his response was, “If I could figure that out, I could tell my people what I expect. However, I just don’t know what I want. What should a construction company earn as a net profit?” That might be the problem, right? I continued by probing into what his net profit is currently. “We work on really tight margins. I think it’s somewhere around 1 percent,” he replied. I went on to explain that construction companies doing under $100 million in sales per year average around 2.5 percent net profit, which I don’t believe is enough. Then I asked him why any of us would risk everything we have, year in and year out, for that or less. I could see from his expression that my points were starting to sink in. I told him I could relate to his situation. In all honesty, his situation sounded a lot like my own several years ago. I would cheer my people on, telling them that we just needed to do the best we can. And guess what? They gave me about 1 per-

cent net profit on average, just like this man was getting now. Luckily, I hired a consultant back then who asked me some of these kinds of questions. I explained to him that I never knew my net profit goals, but between all of the companies I ran, I generally earned around 1 percent. “Aren’t meager earnings okay when you are growing as fast as I am?” I asked in excitement. The consultant then asked me, “Really? Growth with little to no margins is what you’re looking for? Why would you risk everything you have, year in and year out, for virtually no return?” After thinking long and hard about it, I decided I would no longer do that. Later that year, I hired that same consultant to facilitate our annual retreat. What I came away with was nothing short of astounding. Instead of setting only total annual sales goals (without taking gross and net profit into the equation), I drew a line in the sand. I explained to my team that no manager in any of our companies would be allowed to set total sales goals without tying them to a minimum 6 percent net profit. The gross profit goal would also be set at the percentage it took to hit the net profit goal. The bottom line, I explained, was that from then on, each of our companies must earn 6 percent net profit per year, or we would have to change management or strongly consider shutting the company down. Sounds easy enough, right? Wrong. After the retreat, I found that I had frustrated some of the managers with such a high target compared to what we had been used to. In fact, the general manager of one of my companies came to me and asked why I was requiring his division to deliver 6 percent net profit, when I had a couple companies that were actually losing money. I told him that all companies were now required to hit 6 percent or face changes, as I could no longer risk everything I have for such narrow margins.

I could sense his continued frustration, but remained true to my recent convictions. Guess what happened next? The next year (and for the first time in the five-year history of that division), his company was pushing up against 6 percent net profit and has averaged more than that ever since. As for the companies that he was referring to that were losing money? Well, two of them were shut down when they didn’t hit the new 6 percent threshold. And the other two companies just got better, both averaging over 6 percent net profit over the last few years. It’s amazing what happened psychologically to my team when they knew exactly the target they were expected to hit. They changed bidding strategies, they changed delivery methods and they changed their expectations of their own reports in order to hit the desired target. They lived and breathed by the expectations that had been placed upon them. So, what are your expectations? Decide, and set your target now! More importantly, ensure that your people know what the target is. With a target to aim for, and expectations set to hit it, you’ll be surprised at how much your team can achieve. Damian Lang owns and operates several companies in Ohio. He is the inventor of the Grout HogGrout Delivery System, Mud Hog mortar mixers, Hog Leg wallbracing system, and several other labor-saving devices used in the construction industry. He is the author of the book called “RACE— Rewarding And Challenging Employees for Profits in Masonry.” He writes for Masonry Magazine each month and consults with many of the leading contractors in the country.

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INDEX TO

INDUSTRY NEWS

ADVERTISERS

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Court Ruling Halting Department of Labor’s Overtime Rule

C3 Amerimix

On Nov. 22, 2016, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction halting the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) controversial Overtime Rule from taking effect nationwide on Dec. 1. The action was taken by Judge Amos Mazzant of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. The temporary injunction means that the rule will not go into effect until the case is resolved or the injunction is lifted by the judge. As a result, the ruling delays the Dec. 1 implementation, and currently there is no timeline for the case to move forward. The emergency motion for a preliminary injunction was filed on Oct. 12 by 21 states on the grounds that the DOL exceeded its authority by raising the salary threshold too much and providing automatic updates to the threshold without stakeholder input. The states’ case against DOL has been consolidated with another lawsuit brought by 50 business groups, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and National Association of Manufacturers, which raised similar objections to the rule. “Due to the approaching effective date of the final rule, the court’s ability to render a meaningful decision on the merits is in jeopardy,” wrote Judge Mazzant. “A preliminary injunction preserves the status quo while the court determines the department’s authority to make the final rule as well as the final rule’s validity.” As part of the final rule, the salary level under which employees qualify for overtime pay would have increased from $455 per week ($23,360 annually) to an estimated $913 per week ($47,476 annually). In addition, the rule would have provided for automatic updates to the threshold every three years without seeking public comment.

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PORTER CABLE Introduces Cordless Impact Wrench PORTER CABLE has launched its new 20V MAX* Lithium Ion ½-Inch Hog Ring Impact Wrench (PCC740). www.masonrymagazine.com

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ChemGrout, Inc.

Cummer Manufacturing

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11, EZ Grout / Grout Hog 46 800.417.9272 www.ezgrout.com

EZ Scaffold Corporation

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Gatorback LLC

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C2 Hydro-Mobile 888.484.9376 www.hydro-mobile.com

Kennison Forest Products

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Krando Metal Products, Inc.

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14-15, MCAA 32-33, 800.536.2225 45 www.masoncontractors.org 18

7, Non-Stop Scaffolding 9 800.845.0845

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Premier Scaffold Solutions

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The Quikrete Companies

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Unique Industries

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This new impact wrench is an extension of the 20V MAX* Lithium Ion Get Linked system of tools. This tool is the first cordless impact wrench from PORTER CABLE and operates on any PORTER CABLE 20V MAX* Lithium Ion battery. The impact wrench features a ½-inch hog ring anvil, providing 330 ft-lbs of maximum torque for construction applications and lug nut removal. The ½-inch hog ring anvil allows for quick and easy socket changes for a variety of applications. A variable speed trigger enables the user to control the tool’s speed and delivers 0–1,700 rotations per minute (RPM) and 0–2,500 impacts per minute (IPM) to complete heavy-duty applications quickly. By eliminating cords

and hoses of electric and pneumatic impact wrenches, the cordless tool offers convenience and efficiency. The tool’s 4.0Ah 20V MAX* Lithium Ion batter y pack PCC740LA delivers long-lasting runtime and performance. The 20V MAX* Lithium Ion ½-Inch Hog Ring Impact Wrench is 9.9 inches in length and, combined with the 4.0 Ah battery, weighs 6 lbs. The cordless impact wrench is designed with an ergonomic overmolded grip for comfort engineered to limit user fatigue. The tool also includes an LED work light to help illuminate dark work areas. yMAS December 2016

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C O V E R

PROFILE Intermediate School 230Q Annex, Queens, New York Acknowledgment 2016 Brick Industry Association Brick in Architecture Award, Education — K–12, Best in Class

Architect John Ciardullo, P.C., New York, N.Y.

Builder Citnalta Construction Corp., Bohemia, N.Y.

Brick Manufacturer Watsontown Brick Manufacturer, Watsontown, Pa. Redland Brick Inc., Cheswick, Pa.

Brick Distributor Watsontown Brick Manufacturer, Watsontown, Pa. Redland Brick Inc., Cheswick, Pa.

Mason Contractor Eurotech Construction, New York, N.Y.

Photographer Anna-Marie Kellen

Details Intermediate School 230Q Annex is a four-story building intended to relieve overcrowding in the existing middle school located across the street. The steel-framed and concrete slab structure with a brick and block vented cavity wall exterior is a common construction type for new freestanding schools in New York City. One of the aesthetic goals for the Annex was to seamlessly introduce the new structure into the protected architectural setting of the Jackson Heights Historic District. Brick as well as cast-stone elements were combined and detailed in a contemporary adaptation of the architectural

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ornamentation found throughout the neighborhood. A striped pattern, created by alternating red and buff-colored brick courses, defines the base to the cast-stone decorative band that wraps the building. As the band rises to outline the entrance soffit, the striped brickwork turns in to form the entrance setback and encloses the stair towers on the north and south elevations. Above the caststone band, the red brick used at the base of the building completes the facade. A shadow geometry is created by offsetting every other course between the sill and head of the stacked windows. The parapet is

December 2016 • www.masoncontractors.org

decorated with a regular diapered or diamond-shaped pattern. Accentuated by the striped coursing pattern using the buff-colored brick, the main entrance is set back from the street corner, providing a protected, well-lit area away from the street. Above the first floor, the building is set back from the side property line to the end of the adjacent building to north. The three-dimensional texture of the brick patterns on the facade, the intricate detailing of the cast-stone elements and the stepped articulation of the corners of the parapet visually break up the mass of the building without reducing the programmed area. yMAS The Voice of the Masonry Industry

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