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Resource Hub for Architects and Engineers

Welcome to the Architect and Engineer Resource Hub. Masonry is a versatile construction method composed of a wide variety of materials, including brick, stone, concrete masonry, and more. Each of these materials comes with its own set of standards, specifications, and best practices, making it essential to stay informed about the latest developments in masonry design and construction. To support architects and engineers, we have gathered resources from leading industry associations that offer education, technical courses, and comprehensive guidelines. These resources will assist you in designing durable, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing masonry structures that meet the highest standards of quality and performance.

Meet the Industry

Find links below for further education and resources for different masonry materials and wall systems.

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The Beauty of Block

The Beauty of Block is an initiative of the Concrete Masonry Checkoff and provides a wealth of resources for consumers, architects and engineers.  The Block Design Collective can provide technical design assistance to architects and engineers. 

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Homepage: 

https://www.beautyofblock.com

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Technical Resources: 

https://beautyofblock.com/block-design-collective/

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    The Brick Industry Association

    The Brick Industry Association (BIA) is the national trade association representing distributors and manufacturers of clay brick and suppliers of related products and services. Since its founding in 1934, the association has been the nationally recognized authority on clay brick construction.

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    Homepage: 

    https://www.gobrick.com/

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    Technical Resources:
    https://www.gobrick.com/resources/technical-resources

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    Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes

    The Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association (CMHA) represents the unified Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) and National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA). It serves as the authority for segmental concrete products in the US and Canada, supporting producers, suppliers, and contractors. CMHA promotes resilient pavement and structures through research, education, and development of guides, codes, and standards.

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    Homepage: 

    https://www.masonryandhardscapes.org/about/ 

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    Technical Resources: 

    ​https://www.masonryandhardscapes.org/technical-resources/#concrete-masonry-tech

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    The Masonry Society

    The Masonry Society (TMS) is a non-profit organization focused on advancing knowledge in masonry science, engineering, architecture, and construction. It develops standards and resources, and provides educational programs such as seminars and workshops. TMS collaborates with industry and design professionals to improve the design, construction, and maintenance of masonry products and structures.

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    Homepage: 

    https://masonrysociety.org/about-tms/
     

    Technical Resources:

    ​https://learn.masonrysociety.org/

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    Natural Stone Institute

    The Natural Stone Institute, with over 2,000 members worldwide, offers technical resources, professional development, regulatory advocacy, and networking for the natural stone industry. Formed in 2018 from merging the Marble Institute of America and the Building Stone Institute, it sets safety and technical standards. The association's major publications include the Dimension Stone Design Manual and Building Stone Magazine. 

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    Homepage:

    https://www.naturalstoneinstitute.org/

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    Technical Resources: â€‹https://pubs.naturalstoneinstitute.org/resources/library/index.cfm

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    Cast Stone Institute

    The Cast Stone Institute® is an organization of Cast Stone Manufacturers, Associates, and Concrete Technologists formed for the purpose of improving the quality of Cast Stone and disseminating information regarding its use. The activities of the Institute are designed to benefit both the industry and its patrons.

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    Homepage:

    https://caststone.org/

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    Technical Resources:

    https://caststone.org/Technical_Resources

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    International Masonry Institute

    The International Masonry Institute (IMI) is a partnership between members of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC) and the contractors who employ them.

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    Homepage:

    https://imiweb.org/#

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    Technical Resources:

    https://imiweb.org/designer-services/ 

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    Explore the courses offered by the Texas Masonry Council and our member companies! Whether you're interested in online or in-person options, you can find a course that fits your needs. For scheduling, feel free to contact TMC or the member companies directly.

    Code Updates for Concrete Masonry - What Designers Needs to Know

    Texas Masonry Council

    Course #: TMC-0002

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    Credits: 1LU | 1HSW​​

    Model Driven Design and Construction for Masonry

    Course #: TMC-0005

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    Credits: 1 LU | HSW

    Low Embodied Carbon Concrete Masonry Units

    Course #: TMC-0003

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    Credits: 1 LU | HSW

    Reducing Embodied Carbon in Data Centers, Warehousing and Industrial Buildings: A Feasibility Analysis of Masonry Vs Tilt-Up Concrete Construction Methodologies

    Course #: TMC-0006

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    Credits: 1 LU | HSW

    Are Masonry's Passive Fire Resistance Attributes & Resiliency Being Overlooked?

    Course #: TMC-0004

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    Credits: 1 LU | HSW

    Masonry Best Practices

    Course #: ECH- S21MPB-REC

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    Credits: 1 LU | HSW

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    Format: Online

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