FIND A CONTRACTOR BUYER'S GUIDE
BECOME AN INDUSTRY PARTNER
MCAA Logo
MEMBER LOGIN JOIN
NEWS
The 2026 MCAA Annual Online Auction is Now Open ↗

Belgard Announces Backyard Makeover Winner

Words: David BenincasaBelgard, a leading U.S. producer of concrete block and hardscape products, named Gail Bartels of Watertown, Wis., the winner of its “Invite the Unexpected” sweepstakes. Bartels’s entry was randomly selected from approximately 50,000 entries.

A landscape architect will visit her home to develop a custom backyard design. Belgard and Oldcastle Surfaces will then provide paver and retaining wall products to begin construction on the hardscape portion of the design, such as water features, bars and/or countertops. KitchenAid will provide a built in grill package, refrigerator and preparation unit with an outdoor sink. Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights will provide outdoor fixtures and lighting.

“With the state of the economy, people are tending to stay in their homes and remodel existing spaces rather than move, and we wanted to show customers a charming upgrade that adds beauty and value to their home,” said Ken O’Neill, Vice President of Belgard. “In support of Belgard’s commitment to providing beautiful hardscape products for home and business owners nationwide, we wanted to partner with producers of the industry’s best products to provide our customers this ultimate luxury.”

Ms. Bartels stated that she and her husband Ron had been saving to create their own backyard living area. Belgard products are available and installed nationwide through a network of authorized Belgard dealers and contractors. For more information about Belgard products or for a complete list of authorized Belgard dealers, please visit www.belgard.biz or call 1-877-BELGARD.
 0
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
Read More
The Importance of Instructor Support
April 2026

Whether you are a new or veteran masonry instructor, we all need support throughout our careers. We can never stop learning, and keeping up with ever-changing technology, materials, and installation techniques can be overwhelming alongside the everyday pr

Curtis Hoover
Resources
Read More
Vibing Masonry #11: Innovative Concrete Masonry Technologies in Healthcare Design
April 2026

In the high-stakes environment of healthcare design, every material choice is a clinical decision. Architects, engineers, and facility administrators are tasked with creating spaces that are not only resilient and code-compliant but also conducive to heal

Steve Blye
Technical Talks
Read More
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
Read More