Has your project been impacted by improper testing procedures? Looking ahead to 2026, we will be developing resources for testing agencies, special inspectors, construction managers, and mason contractors to educate on grout and mortar testing.

The Brick Industry Association recently updated their technical note related to CFMF backup based on research, analysis, and field surveys here: https://t.co/0uqhmcBZA6. An article in STRUCTURE magazine added additional information: https://t.co/G8yMsc901d.

The 2022 TMS 402 includes an overhaul of the veneer chapter. Changes include out-of-plane deflection requirements, a maximum specified cavity width of 6", and new methods for the engineered design of anchored veneer. We'll be developing a summary of changes to release.

Integrating stack bond and running bond can provide a purposeful aesthetic, as shown on the Hope College Jim Heeringa Athletic Center designed by MIM member AMDG Architects. When using stack bond, there are some additional detailing considerations that need to be considered.

Get ready! The Michigan Building Code rules are now open, and we have begun the process of adopting the 2024 IBC. We will be developing resources highlighting the changes. For instance, contractors will be required to provide shop drawings for closed bottom lintel units.

Thanks to Consumers Concrete for hosting our generic wall design committee meeting this week! Our committees are actively developing new tools and resources to help architects and engineers design masonry efficiently.

Read more about why masonry is the simple choice that delivers for schools here: https://t.co/8auZgxIC1v. A perfect example is this new school construction in west Michigan which also made it on the cover of the Masonry Designers Guide.

Locating openings and corners with modularity in mind can avoid unnecessary field cutting which adds to project cost and can result in issues. Check out the technical note from CMHA to learn more: https://t.co/eApdY5Bnyr.

Due to their small impact on thermal performance, masonry veneer ties are not considered a thermal bridge, as noted in ACI/TMS Code 122.1-21. ASHRAE 90.1 considers masonry veneer ties to be fasteners, which are not considered to be a thermal bridge. Reach out to learn more!

Congratulations to the AIA Michigan M-Award projects this year: 1550 Woodward (McIntosh Poris Architects) and Orchard Lake Schools new STEM Academic Building and Quadrangle (Niagara Murano)! MIM members Leidal and Hart and Clark Construction helped make these projects a success!

In support of our strategic alliance with MIOSHA, we held wall bracing training today for their staff. Big thanks to BAC Local 2 and the IMI for helping make it happen! We covered the MCAA Standard Practice and related MIOSHA and OSHA standards.

How should base flashing be detailed and constructed? We have a bulletin on exposed metal flashing that discusses options and challenges here: https://t.co/lqFXLG0SZe, and we have a flashing workshop with York Flashings coming up on 10/20. Register here: https://t.co/VYVg1djhBQ.

Varying integrally colored CMUs can create a purposeful aesthetic. Whenever CMUs are used, even in veneers, it is always recommended to use joint reinforcement and control joints as part of the crack control strategy. CMHA revised their tech. note here: https://t.co/7DbgAc9BQ6.

Masonry is required to be constructed within tolerances specified in TMS 602. For example reinforcing bars are required to be placed within +/- 1/2 in., and being off by 1 in. would decrease the capacity by nearly 20%, highlighting the importance of special inspections.

While there aren't any specific requirements regarding setbacks and offsets, we usually try to stick within the guidelines for non-load-bearing corbels and limit the maximum projection of one unit to one-half of the nominal height and one-third the nominal thickness.

Check out this curved glazed brick wall recently constructed by Navetta Mason Contractors as part of the Burton Elementary project. If you're interested in designing curved brick masonry walls, the BIA has a technical note on the topic here: https://t.co/EMhLpfAScE.

Interested in learning more about designing, constructing, and sustaining resilient masonry structures? Register for the NCSEA mastering masonry courses here:

What is your experience with "portal frame" construction, and how can we make it easier? Our generic wall design committee is focused on understanding the issues and developing standard designs and details to simplify the construction. Reach out and let us know your experience!

We had a great time at the AIA Michigan Annual Mid Summer Conference! They had informative continuing education on topics including delegated design and the role of AI in the practice of architecture, plus we won their annual cornhole competition. Looking forward to next year!

Happy Professional Engineers Day! Whether it's providing direct project support to structural engineers, involvement with the TMS code development process, or funding research to advance the industry, the MIM is always happy to support the engineering community!