North Carolina Fastest Trowel on the Block

Words: Ryan ShaverThe North Carolina Fastest Trowel on the Block competition will be held Wednesday, November 15 in Gold Hill, N.C. from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM.

The first place mason and tender will win $2,500 plus entry, airfare, and two nights accommodation for the national Fastest Trowel on the Block competition in Las Vegas. Second place will be awarded $1,500 and $1,000 for third place.

For more information and to register, contact Byard Stevens at 336-580-5457 or bstevens@scmaonline.org.
Is Contact with Wet Mortar or Grout Dangerous?
April 2026

In the world of masonry, few materials are as common as mortar and grout. Whether you are laying brick, concrete masonry units (CMU), or pouring grout into masonry walls, wet cement and mortar are constant companions. However, beneath their utility lies a

The Importance of Instructor Support
April 2026

Whether you are a new or veteran masonry instructor, we all need support throughout our careers. We can never stop learning, and keeping up with ever-changing technology, materials, and installation techniques can be overwhelming alongside the everyday pr

Vibing Masonry #11: Innovative Concrete Masonry Technologies in Healthcare Design
April 2026

In the high-stakes environment of healthcare design, every material choice is a clinical decision. Architects, engineers, and facility administrators are tasked with creating spaces that are not only resilient and code-compliant but also conducive to heal

Why Termination Bars Still Matter: A Practical Look at Long‑Term Flashing Performance
April 2026

In recent discussions across the masonry industry, I have heard termination bars described as “old school.” The implication is that with modern materials, primerless peel-and-stick flashings, advanced sealants, and structural insulated sheathing, mechanic