International Masonry Institute News

Building the Future: Young Designers Get Hands-On Masonry Experience

Since 1989, IMI has hosted the University of Notre Dame Masonry Day Design-Build Competition. Over the years, this annual event has evolved and today is a dynamic competition that allows students...

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Best of the Best: 2015 BAC/IMI International Apprentice Contest Preview

Robert Arnold is the National Director of Apprenticeship and Training at the International Masonry Training and Education Foundation, which is funded by the International Masonry Institute. He has...

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Lighting Sources and Masonry Effects

Look closely at these two pictures. One photo appears to show a very smooth and well-built wall. The other photo shows a wall with a lot of unsightly imperfections. But the truth is that the photos...

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5 Ways That Masonry Improves Healthcare Facilities

Healthcare buildings are considered some of the most complex to design and build. Stakeholders of hospitals are faced with strict regulation and the need to provide emergency care and 24-hour...

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Opportunities through Building Code Changes

The 2015 edition of the International Building Code® (IBC®) requires most schools and emergency facilities located in areas of high tornado risk to contain storm shelters that meet the requirements...

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Interior Thermal Mass: Designing a High Performance Interior Environment

Why do we need interior thermal mass if we’ve already insulated a building? 

This commonly asked question is best answered by explaining that insulation works to prevent thermal loss through the...

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Internal Bracing of Masonry Walls

"Options, options, options!" is one of the best phrases to describe structural masonry. Internal bracing of masonry walls while they are being constructed is a perfect example of an option available...

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BIM for Masonry (BIM-M) Symposium

Over 100 industry leaders gathered in St. Louis, Missouri, earlier this month to learn about Building Information Modeling (BIM) progress by the coordinated efforts of the masonry industry.

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Large Format Tile: Dealing with Lippage

Large format ceramic and porcelain tile can provide a floor finish that is contemporary, beautiful, and easily maintained. In order to achieve a successful installation, it is important for a...

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IMI's Historic Preservation Certificate Program

The American Architectural Foundation awarded its inaugural Oculus Award for Leadership in Design & Cultural Heritage to both the International Masonry Institute and the International Union of...

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