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Build the perfect stone wall

Words: Jeff FarmakesSPEC MIX® Building Stone Mortars are especially designed for stone masons building masonry walls with full depth stone units. Whether the specification calls for soft or hard stone, Building Stone Mortar mixes are engineered to match the specific properties of each stone to increase the mortar-to-stone bond strength while increasing the number of units your masons install every day.

Building Stone Mortar is available in standard gray and custom colored formulations that are completely preblended for optimal consistency, durability and increased jobsite efficiency–EVERY TIME!

Visit www.specmix.com to learn more.
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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

John Bard
Technical Talks
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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

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MAP Partner
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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

Zach Everett
Technical Talks
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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

Linda Potter
Technical Talks
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