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

Making Old Brickwork Look New Again
September 2026

Brickwork is built to last, but mortar isn’t. Over time, exposure to moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and everyday wear causes joints to crack, crumble, and even recede. What starts as a cosmetic issue can quickly turn into a structural concern if left unadd

Why Joint Profiles Matter In Masonry Restoration
September 2026

For generations, masonry structures have been defined not only by the brick, block, or stone used in construction, but also by the mortar joints that tie everything together. Whether restoring a historic brick facade, repairing natural stone veneer, or re

Designed for the Way Contractors Work Today
September 2026

Every piece of equipment tells a story about the challenges contractors face. For more than 30 years, the EZG Manufacturing team has listened to those stories—through customer relationships, job site visits, dealer feedback, a

Chemicals In Masonry
September 2026

Mason contractors must deal with chemicals on the job site. One of the main ones comes in the form of dust. Another is acid. From high-rise commercial structures to residential facades, masonry work involves handling raw materials that require careful man