Business Briefs: AIA Elects New President

Words: Bronzella Cleveland

MarchApril 2008
Industry News

Business Briefs:
The American Institute of Architects Elects New President

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has elected its 84th president: Marshall E. Purnell, FAIA. Purnell is a principal of Devrouax + Purnell Architects and Planners in Washington, D.C. He served as AIA first vice president in 2007, and prior to his election as president, Purnell was president of the AIA Washington, D.C., chapter in 2003, and Mid-Atlantic Regional Director from 2003 to 2006. MD

Mastering The Art Of Masonry Repair: The Dos and Don’ts
April 2026

Whether we specialize in repairs and restoration work or new construction, repairs are something that we all must do, at least from time to time. With ever-increasing competition from faster and cheaper building systems, the onus is on us as masonry profe

The Evolution of Brick Staining: From Color Complaints to Industry Essential
April 2026

Over thirty years ago, much of the conversation around brick staining centered on color complaints. In the early days, nearly all of our work stemmed from those situations, projects where something had gone wrong, and staining was brought in as a correcti

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

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