N-95 Masks Desperately Needed

Words: Jeff Buczkiewicz

The MCAA would like to appeal to all of our contractors to check the inventory of N-95 masks. As you've probably heard, these masks are desperately needed in hospitals across the country. There are severe shortages right now. If you have a box or more that you are able to spare from your inventory, please donate it to a local hospital immediately. 

We are tracking these donations, so if you have the ability to donate and do so, please send a note to Jeff at jeffb@masoncontractors.org. The MCAA is working on getting a larger portion of the construction industry to participate in this donation program. While there is a lot of talk of masks coming to the hospitals, the reality is that it will take several weeks when production and delivery are factored in. 

Our response to get these very important PPE products to our medical people before the main supply reaches them will go a long way in protecting our healthcare workers and their families. Matt Keelen from The Keelen Group has spoken with HHS and they said this would be a huge help to fill the gap of PPE availability. 

Please remember to regularly visit the MCAA homepage to find the latest on the Coronavirus from the MCAA. 

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

Building Solutions: The Critical Role of Cavity Space in Masonry Moisture Control
April 2026

Long before “rainscreen” became a popular term in building science, masonry cavity walls were functioning on that very principle. A brick veneer cavity wall is designed with the expectation that water will penetrate the exterior