News

ALDI Opens Doors of New Location In Dorchester County

Residents of Dorchester County have an exciting new choice for food shopping as national grocery retailer ALDI has opened its doors!

The store, located at 628 Sunburst Highway in Cambridge, Maryland, is part of an effort for “aggressive nationwide growth” and the opening of 150 new stores by the end of the year. The expansion of locations will make ALDI the third-largest U.S. grocery retailer by store count by the end of this year.

D.W. Masonry, Inc. is proud to have played a role in bringing another new and exciting shopping experience to the people of Cambridge. To see more of our recent projects, visit our Project Gallery!

ALDI Grocery Store - Cambridge Maryland
ALDI Grocery Store – Cambridge, Maryland

Saints Peter & Paul High School Team Takes Home Top Honors at 18th Ace Mentor Program Awards Ceremony

Congratulations to the 10-member ACE team from Saints Peter & Paul High School applied their burgeoning architecture, construction and engineering skills to their winning design of a mile-long Rails-to-Trails extension for south Easton. The Saints Peter & Paul team competed against one ACE team from Easton High School and two from St. Michaels Middle High School. They exhibited their design at the 18th ACE Awards Program on March 9th at Elks Lodge 1622 in Easton.

The four teams presented their concepts to an audience comprised of the judges, town and county officials, educational leaders and parents. Judging criteria included a realistic concept, application of science and math principles and a clear, cohesive presentation.

Ace Mentor ProgramThe team’s overall presentation achieved “the wow factor,” said James Cook, an engineering consultant with Rauch Inc. in Easton, and one of three judges, who also included Rick Van Emburgh, Town of Easton Engineer, and Jen Trego, president of D.W. Masonry in Denton.

“It was obvious that a lot of time and effort went into putting their project together and researching the many challenges that would come with such a project. Their attention to detail was superb. All of the teams in Talbot County had excellent presentations.” — Jen Trego, President of D.W. Masonry, Inc.

The mission of the Ace Mentor Program is to engage, excite and enlighten high school students to pursue careers in architecture, engineering and construction through mentoring and to support their continued advancement in the industry.

The main objective is to work with underrepresented students that do not have the guidance and support to help them uncover opportunities for their future.

ACE Mentor’s two primary goals are to:

  • Create a large, diverse, better-prepared workforce for our industry.
  • Assist and guide students as they proceed along their pathways to opportunities inour industry through internships and support.

Founded in 1994, ACE is a federation of more than 75 affiliates (chapters), operating in 38 states and Canada and serving over 10,000 students and awarding $2.5 million in scholarships annually. A national office in Philadelphia supports the affiliate programs.

The event was sponsored by ACE Mentor Program of Maryland, Eastern Shore Founder Charles H. Thornton. Members of the local ACE board of directors are Chair Lindsey Hill, Founder Charles H. Thornton, Vice Chair Katie Reedy, Secretary Katie Northam, Treasurer Ida Heelan, Andy Cheezum, Jim Heelan and Carolyn Thornton.


FOCUS ON SAFETY: Taking Time Out For Safety Education and CPR Training

D.W. Masonry, Inc.’s team recently took time out for a Safety and CPR training course. We proudly partner with Safe & Secure Enterprises, Inc. to make sure each project meets our standards and all of our employees make it home safely at the end of the day. SSEI is a Professional Safety Consulting/Security Investigative Firm located in Maryland, which covers both sides of the beautiful Chesapeake Bay.

No matter if the job is large or small, safety is the most important aspect of any of our projects. In addition to our weekly safety meetings and toolbox talks, each year the employees of D.W. Masonry, Inc. gather to get the latest information on creating a safe and secure work environment.

Safe & Secure Enterprises, Inc. draws on their extensive education and diversified experience to provide a wide array of services. To learn more about SSEI, visit their website at www.ssei-online.com.


D.W. Masonry, Inc. Now Offering Commercial Air Barrier Systems

D.W. Masonry, Inc. has announced their collaboration with the Henry® Company (www.henry.com) and Carlisle Coatings & Waterproofing (www.carlisleccw.com) to become trained installers of Fluid-Applied and Self-Adhered Air/Water Resistive Barrier Systems for commercial construction.

The D.W. Masonry, Inc. team has been trained in providing three types of air barriers: self-adhered sheet; fluid-applied; and fluid-applied, vapor-permeable. All systems have been evaluated by the Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA) and meet the most stringent energy codes including: 2012 & 2015 IECC; 2010 & 2013 ASHRAE 90.1; Massachusetts Energy Code 780 CMR; and the Canadian National Building Code.

HenryHenry® Company is a leading innovator of Building Envelope Systems® and develops integrated air/vapor barrier, roofing and waterproofing systems to ensure superior building performance. These systems have been designed to dramatically improve building energy efficiency, indoor comfort and longevity.

CarlisleAdditionally, with more than 45 years of field experience, Carlisle Coatings & Waterproofing system solutions have led the way in providing watertight, reliable building envelope solutions to suit a variety of construction types.

D.W. Masonry, Inc. is proud to partner with these two industry leaders to contribute to more energy efficient buildings and stronger structures. For more information on how Fluid-Applied and Self-Adhered Air/Water Resistive Barrier Systems can benefit your upcoming projects, contact us today!

Air Barrier Systems for Commercial Construction


D.W. Masonry, Inc. Is Expanding — Become A Member of Our Team!

D.W. Masonry, Inc. is expanding and our company is currently seeking qualified, motivated individuals with positive attitudes to join the team. We are looking for persons with masonry experience, construction experience and those willing to learn the trade. A career in masonry work provides an opportunity to expand your skill sets, practice creative problem-solving, and experience the rewards of working with your hands. Check out a few of our current available positions below and visit our Careers page to begin your journey..

Careers at D.W. Masonry, Inc.

Mason Tender/Laborer
As a Mason Tender you will have many responsibilities on the job-site. We train all of our employees and teach them the best and safest way to preform on the job. Some of the training you can expect to receive includes scaffold safety instruction, fall protection and personal protective equipment. Some of the responsibilities you will have as a Mason Tender are listed below.

  • Arranging materials, tools and equipment
  • Setting up work areas
  • Working alongside of the masons to ensure productivity and efficiency.
  • Erecting scaffolding or other installation structures.
  • Mixing mortar and grout

Mason
As a Mason we expect quality and efficiency. With safety being a priority, all of our employees, including Masons, are trained in all safety procedures including scaffold safety. We pride ourselves in providing a safe working environment. Along with safety training Masons will have the following responsibilities and expectations:

  • Must be able to produce quality work in a timely manner
  • Must be a self-starter, reliable, motivated and able to follow instruction
  • Must be able to construct corners and use/set up corner poles
  • We expect you to have your own tools and to be proficient with them

Foreman
Our Foreman are responsible for overseeing the entire project. As one of the leaders on the job site we expect our foreman to keep their team motivated and keep the morale high. While on the job they must communicate with project managers, vendors and other contractors. We expect our foreman to have experience and know the industry. Foreman will have the following responsibilites:

  • Read specifications and blue prints to determine materials, requirements and to plan procedures
  • May be required to be hands on in the field
  • Must be able to complete all necessary paperwork in an office and on a mobile device
  • Examine and inspect work progress, equipment and construction sites to verify safety and to ensure that specifications are met

To apply for a position, visit our Careers page located at themasonryexperts.com/careers/.


Remember, Safety First! The D.W. Masonry, Inc. Employee Safety Seminar

D.W. Masonry, Inc. - Safety Training Certified

No matter if the job is large or small, safety is the most important aspect of any of our projects. In addition to our weekly safety meetings and toolbox talks, each year the employees of D.W. Masonry, Inc. gather to get the latest information on creating a safe and secure work environment.

The Annual Employee Safety Seminar was recently held in Easton, Maryland. At this event, our staff was presented with new ways to eliminate the every day hazards in the workplace, instructions on how to avoid common pitfalls presented on a job site, as well as the latest on our company’s safety policies, procedures and regulations.

D.W. Masonry, Inc. proudly partners with Safe & Secure Enterprises, Inc. to make sure each project meets our standards and all of our employees make it home safely at the end of the day. SSEI is a Professional Safety Consulting/Security Investigative Firm located in Maryland, which covers both sides of the beautiful Chesapeake Bay.

Safe & Secure Enterprises, Inc. draws on their extensive education and diversified experience to provide a wide array of services. To learn more about SSEI, visit their website at www.ssei-online.com.


From The Job Site To The Open Road — #SafetyAlways

D.W. Masonry, Inc.’s safety practices aren’t solely confined to our construction sites. Our company is committed to exceeding the mandatory minimums by ensuring its entire workforce has the training and support needed to maintain an industry-leading highway and driver safety record. While state and federal regulations establish guidelines for safe truck driving practices, we’ve made driver and motorist safety a cornerstone of its operations. To reach this goal, D.W. Masonry, Inc. has forged a partnership with DOT Compliance Consultants, LLC.

DOT Compliance Consultants, led by Retired Maryland State Police Master Trooper Troy Smith, has aided our growing company in establishing/maintaining comprehensive safety plans to ensure our company stays ahead of changing industry regulations. These valuable insights are integrated into daily operations to ensure the safest possible performance and compliance. Areas of focus include pre-trip inspections, maintaining proper documentation, mock audits and beyond.

“All D.W. Masonry, Inc. drivers are initiated and trained in our Safe Driving program, which prepares them to apply personal values and professional standards in the decisions they make behind the wheel and around our vehicles. Beyond the company-specific training, our drivers also take part regular safety meetings, conducted by DOT Compliance Consultants. These informative sessions feature information-sharing, safe driving techniques, and a review of the company’s current Compliance-Safety-Accountability (CSA) scores in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Safety Management System. Troy has been a key factor in providing us with the comprehensive knowledge we need to protect our business, our employees and everyone else on the roads.” — David W. Smith, Jr., CEO for D.W. Masonry, Inc.

“It’s been a tremendous asset to have Troy work in such a hands-on manner with our drivers. With his industry insight and field experience, he is able to present our teams with real-life situations/scenarios he has witnessed firsthand. This approach, which extends well-beyond the classroom setting, allows for the key points and safety practices to be easily absorbed. Effective safety training starts by building a solid foundation and that is exactly what DOT Compliance Consultants, LLC delivers to our staff.” — William Lednum, Vice President of D.W. Masonry, Inc.

Visit www.dotcomplianceconsultantsllc.com and learn more about how they can help protect your fleet!


D.W. Masonry, Inc. Partners With DOT Compliance Consultants, LLC

July 24th, 2020

DOT Compliance Consultants, LLC

Denton, Maryland – Each year, companies nationwide log hundreds of thousands of miles traveling to and from job sites, as well as transporting the equipments and materials needed to bring their projects to life. There’s nothing like experience when it comes to understanding the confusing and ever-changing Department of Transportation Safety Regulations.

D.W. Masonry, Inc. is proud to partner with DOT Compliance Consultants, LLC to provide an added layer of protection for our growing fleet.

Located in the Greater Baltimore/Washington Metropolitan Region, DOT Compliance Consultants, LLC is the region’s leading experts in the safety of commercial vehicles and drivers. The company offers the commercial vehicle industry peace of mind in meeting all rules and regulations pertaining to FMCSA’s requirements. All of the services provided by DOT Compliance Consultants, LLC will assure your company is maintaining the proper paperwork, meeting all trucking and driver safety requirements, and providing you with the most up-to-date information in rules and regulations. Their highly certified consultants have built a reputation as one of the leading agencies in the commercial vehicle industry.

Visit www.dotcomplianceconsultantsllc.com and learn more about how they can help protect your fleet!


Jen Trego - President of D.W. Masonry, Inc.
Jen Trego

Denton, Maryland – We’re pleased to announce that we have appointed Jen Trego as D.W. Masonry, Inc.’s President, effective immediately.

Jen’s appointment is a clear reflection of the company’s current state — Ready to take on the future and very excited after another strong year of growth and successful customer relationships! With her addition, D.W. Masonry, Inc. is poised for major expansion in field of commercial construction.

Jen brings decades of experience to the company and has a proven record of taking customer-centric companies like D.W. Masonry, Inc. to the next level. A graduate of Norte Dame of Maryland University, she has over 20 years of experience in all aspects of construction projects, which range from planning, estimating, scheduling, logistics, building and close out. Jen works closely with all members of our team to oversee all aspects of the company’s daily operations in the Delmarva region.

David W. Smith, Jr., our former President, will continue to play an active role in the company serving as CEO and special advisor to the management team. David was one of the first to see the massive potential for the expansion of commercial masonry in our region and is responsible for growing the company to where we sit today. Of Trego’s appointment to the new position, Smith stated: “With the enormous opportunities that lie ahead, we couldn’t be happier with Jen joining our team. She is a valuable asset in charting our course for the future and  building an even stronger relationship with our customers and business partners. I speak for all of us when I say that the future looks brighter than ever! We couldn’t be more excited that she is joining us for this journey.”


D.W. Masonry, Inc. Partners With Coastal Stone Company, LLC To Bring Your Creative Vision To Life

As construction became more advanced, so did options for building. Manufactured stone offers simple, clean lines that are used in tactile and modern design. Our region is seeing the growth in popularity of modern architecture – in both the commercial and residential sectors.

D.W. Masonry, Inc. is proud to partner with the Coastal Stone Company to bring your vision to life. Located on Maryland’s scenic Eastern Shore, Coastal Stone prides themselves on providing their valued customers with breathtaking replications of some of the world’s most sought-after natural stone varieties. Their unique product line offers the timeless style of natural stone without the added weight and costs.

Coastal Stone’s products are manufactured from detailed natural stone patterns and molds, using colors and textures to simulate the look of actual stone.  A wide array of types, colors, and top-notch customer service, have established Coastal Stone as one of the most trusted names in the industry. Visit www.coastalstonecompany.com for more information.

Coastal Stone Company


David W. Smith, Jr. Addresses Students At Wesley College

Dover, Delaware – D.W. Masonry, Inc.’s CEO, David W. Smith, Jr., is a 1987 graduate of Wesley College in Dover, Delaware. He recently made a return to his alma mater when he was invited to address students at MBNA School of Business and Accounting by one of his former professors, Mrs. Marilyn H. Johnson M.B.A.

An interactive experience, he offered insight on many unique parts of small business ownership by taking questions from the students themselves and learning more about their projects. During the session, the group explored many of the challenges small business owners may encounter in an ever-changing marketplace, the importance of team building, and the advantages of exploring new technologies increase performance in the field.

Founded in 1976, D.W. Masonry, Inc. has grown to be one of the most respected commercial and residential contractors on the Delmarva Peninsula. With Integrity as the company’s cornerstone, D.W. Masonry, Inc. continues to meet the changing needs of its clients and delivers finished products built to stand the test of time. The company is headquartered in Denton, MD.

Wesley College - Dover, Delaware


Repointing Completed On Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s Dodson House

As part of its commitment to future growth, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum recently contracted D.W. Masonry of Denton, Md., to repoint the brickwork of its 1800s Dodson House.

The current home of CBMM’s administrative offices, Dodson House was built sometime between 1851 and 1861 for the Dyott family. When Richard S. Dodson acquired the home in the 1880s, he expanded it slightly, raising the side facing the water and adding the spectacular triple porch on the water side.

The bricks were probably made locally, out of locally obtained clay, and like most 19th century brick, they were not fired at such a high temperature as modern bricks. They were originally mortared with a lime and oyster shell-based mortar, which likewise, is softer than modern mixes of Portland cement. Over time, exposure to the weather eroded some of the original mortar, and water can now seep through the brick walls, damaging the building interior.

CBMM undertook a major rehabilitation of Dodson House in the early 2000s, but never completed the task of repointing the mortar between the historic bricks. Thanks to funds provided through a Maryland Bond Bill, and matched by donations to CBMM’s five-year comprehensive campaign, that project has now been accomplished. It was done according to preservation best practices so that Dodson House can stand for another generation and more.

The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is a world-class maritime museum dedicated to preserving and exploring the history, environment and people of the entire Chesapeake Bay, with the values of relevancy, authenticity, and stewardship guiding its mission. To learn more or to support CBMM, visit cbmm.org.

The Dodson House at Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum — St. Michaels. MD
The Dodson House at Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum — St. Michaels. MD

Jason Price On Serving As One of Chesapeake Center, Inc.’s Board Members

Denton, Maryland – D.W. Masonry, Inc.’s Jason Price proudly serves on the Board of Directors at Chesapeake Center, Inc. The organization was founded in 1967 by concerned citizens who raised adult children with disabilities with no future after their 9th grade education. With the assistance of local philanthropist, Mrs. Alton Jones, who donated the campus at 713 Dover Road in Easton, the Center has grown and expanded its services to 100 adults with disabilities on a daily basis and draws 100 employees from Dorchester, Caroline, and Talbot Counties. Successful operation as a nonprofit for 46 years demonstrates the Board’s valuable guidance and generous community support to promote their goal of “expanding opportunities for adults with disabilities”.

“I grew up in Easton. Like many others, I drove by the Chesapeake Center’s campus for years. While I knew the name, I had no idea of the amazing work they were doing throughout the community. My position on the board has offered me a unique perspective on the tremendous challenges faced by this non-profit. It’s an honor to serve with such a high caliber group of people and a pleasure to bring my marketing experience to the board of directors and help spread the word on this organization.”

Mr. Price was elected to the board in 2014 and serves on several of the board’s internal committees. To learn more about Chespeake Center, Inc., visit their official website at www.chesapeakecenter.org.

Chesapeake Center, Inc.


Quality Materials — The Backbone Of All Our Projects!

D.W. Masonry Inc.’s success through the years is due to the quality workmanship of our skilled masons and the high quality products that we use on every job. One material that we put our trust in is Glen-Gery Brick. Founded in 1890, Glen-Gery Corporation is the largest molded brick and fifth largest brick manufacturer in the United States. The company holds the distinction of being one of the most trusted names in brickmaking throughout the building industry. The company offers a versatile collection of over 1,000 different colors, sizes and textures. Their durable and environmentally-friendly products allow us to bring the highest level of quality of all our projects. Visit their website at www.glengerybrick.com.

Rehoboth Beach City Hall - Rehoboth, DE


A Word From The Pros: Your Yearly Masonry Checklist!

Each year, masonry work can take a pounding from the elements. Whether you hit the yard to soak in some sunshine this spring or are preparing for the winter months, remember to keep your masonry work in mind. Use the checklist below to identify any potential problems before there get out of control. Checking these items on a regular basis can add to the life expectancy of your home and it’s components, as well as save you money on costly repairs in the future.

Masonry Checklist

•  Check condition of driveways and walks for damage or deterioration.
•  Check for any loose brick or stones that could cause fall hazards.
•  Check window wells, dry wells, and storm drains for blockage.
•  Check for proper grading and drainage throughout property.
•  Check (during rainstorm) for drainage away from foundation.
•  Check caulking at all joints.
•  Check condition of masonry chimneys and vents.
•  Check foundation for settlement, cracks and spalling.
•  Check for cracks or breaks in foundation walls.
•  Check for water infiltration or dampness on/or around masonry.

Quick Tip: Check control joints and caulking around the masonry on your home or business on a semi-annual basis. Typically, caulk needs to be replaced every five years to prevent moisture from entering the structure.