PCA Announces Sixth Edition of Masonry Handbook

Words: Bronzella Cleveland

MarchApril 2008
Industry News

PCA Announces Sixth Edition of Masonry Handbook

The Portland Cement Association’s (PCA’s) sixth edition of the “Concrete Masonry Handbook for Architects, Engineers, and Builders” highlights recent advancements in concrete masonry, enabling the design and construction of state-of-the-art residential, commercial and industrial structures.

The manual reflects the most common practices for concrete masonry construction, from the latest ASTM reference standards to innovations in materials and
methods. A special emphasis is given to relevant codes, including the 2006 International Building Code and the 2005 Building Code Requirements and Specification for Masonry Structures, published by the Masonry Standards Joint Committee.

The handbook provides comprehensive coverage of materials – from units, to mortar, to grout. Relevant research and technical publications, including the National Concrete Masonry Association TEK series, are referenced extensively, offering both a thorough understanding of various topics and a key resource for deeper study.

For more information or to order, visit www.cement.org/bookstore. MD

Four Home Design Trends Driving Masonry Demand in 2026
July 2026

As design trends continue to evolve, one theme remains consistent throughout 2026: homeowners want spaces that feel intentional, comfortable and enduring. According to Westlake Royal Building Products’ TrendLine platform, today's most influential trends e

The Modern Masonry Saw: Safety, Efficiency, and Smarter Cutting
July 2026

Masonry is a craft built on precision, strength, and durability. At the heart of every successful masonry project is one essential tool: the masonry saw. As technology evolves, so does the role of the saw on the jobsite. Today’s contractors are not just l

Getting the Finish Right on Burnished CMU
July 2026

The wall is complete. The lines are crisp. The coursing is tight, and the burnished CMU delivers exactly the refined appearance the design team envisioned. After weeks of coordination and careful installation, the project is final

Argo Community High School Performing Arts Center
July 2026

Argo Community High School is located in Summit, Illinois, just southwest of Chicago’s Midway Airport. In 2016, the Argo Community High School Board of Education and the school’s administration undertook the construction of a new performing