Jandris Block

04/14/2026

Concrete masonry units (CMU) are one of the most thoroughly studied building materials in construction. Over the last several years, the industry has advanced that rigor by quantifying embodied carbon and carbon sequestration as part of broader decarbonization goals. A key finding has emerged from t...

04/02/2026

As school districts and design teams look to strike a humane balance, many are adopting Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles. At the same time, they are reexamining the critical role of high-mass materials — bringing concrete masonry back into the conversation.

As school districts and designers rethink safety, durability and long-term performance, a familiar wall system is finding new relevance.

03/24/2026

The 2026 Northeast Hardscape Expo was a great success once again!

We introduced our newest Keystone Retaining Wall Systems LLC product called Contemporary Compac Block and included a Concrete Masonry display featuring Split Face, Ground Face, and Polished face finishes.

It was great to see all of our customers come by the booth. Looking forward to seeing you again next year.

03/09/2026

Early results confirm what many in the field have long observed: concrete masonry naturally and continuously absorbs carbon over time, making it a key part of the industry’s sustainability story.

Concrete Masonry & Hardscapes Association

TECHNICAL TALK: How Concrete Masonry Locks in Carbon and Why It Matters

Read here: https://loom.ly/yYuv5k4

03/05/2026

02/25/2026

On March 4 at 1:00 p.m. CT, Irene Li from the Block Design Collective is breaking down structural masonry in a clear, practical way for architects, designers, contractors and other non-engineers who work with masonry systems.​

In this session, Irene will cover:​
• The basic principles behind structural concrete masonry systems​
• How loads travel through masonry buildings​
• Common terminology you’ll encounter on projects​
• How early design decisions influence structural performance​

If you’ve ever wanted a clearer picture of what’s happening inside a masonry wall, this one’s for you.​

Register today: https://q2e6b.share.hsforms.com/2leyi3H5EQXi3IImlXSUFbA

02/20/2026

02/06/2026

Ever wondered if you could write it in Concrete Masonry?

Perkins&Will Boston designed this wall-sized signature A for Phillips Academy using recessed ground face CMU to create a truly eye-catching entrance inside the Snyder Center, with masonry installation by Fernandes Masonry, Inc.

This high-performance building not only acts as an athletic facility, but also as a Student Center and hub for student activity, making this CMU centerpiece part of memorable occasions for generations to come.

01/23/2026

10 Things Every Structural Engineer Should Know: Strategies for Efficient Concrete Masonry Design

The SEI SE 2050 Commitment Program was developed and is managed by a dedicated group of volunteers. Each member of the team brings a unique perspective and level of expertise to SE 2050. This is the fourth of a series of lists developed by the SE2050 Resources Working Group to communicate essential....