Second Edition of Masonry Basics Now Available

Words: Bronzella Cleveland
Second Edition of Masonry Basics Now Available

Rochelle C. Jaffe recently completed the second edition of the popular Masonry Basics, which is now available through The Masonry Society (TMS). This excellent primer, which serves as an introduction to masonry design and construction, is economically priced at just $35 ($26.25 for TMS Members). Masonry component materials, the ways in which they are assembled to form the masonry construction, and the weather-resistance and structural implications of the various types of masonry assemblies are described.

Highlights of quality assurance and quality control issues are addressed, and a few of the most common types of potential deficiencies in masonry construction are explained so they can be avoided. Finally, a glossary of masonry terms used in the text is provided.

Masonry Basics can serve as a beginning text for architects, engineers, contractors, building officials, inspectors, building owners, or anyone else who wants to learn the basics of this industry.

Visit www.masonrysociety.org to order a copy.

Terminations: The Hardest Part of Leadership
May 2026

Throughout my career, I’ve faced a wide variety of challenges, some technical, some interpersonal, and many that forced me to adapt quickly. These days, most of my work is behind a computer in an office, but the lessons I’ve learned apply wherever I go.

The Compliance Shield: Navigating the New Standards of Field Oversight
May 2026

The modern job site is undergoing a quiet but significant transformation. While the physical act of laying a block remains the core of the trade, the environment surrounding that work is becoming increasingly data-driven. We are moving away from the era o

When GEORGE Met BOB: Ironsite Is MCAA's First AI-Centered Cornerstone Partner
May 2026

Earlier this year at World of Concrete, I taught the AI Test Drive class and gave attendees an early look at GEORGE 3.0, which we're set to release later this year. As I was wrapping up the session and people were still asking questions, the team from Iro

Ironsite Joins Masonry Alliance Program as Newest Cornerstone Partner
May 2026

The Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA) is thrilled to announce that Ironsite will be joining the Masonry Alliance Program (MAP) at the Cornerstone level.