From Algae-Based Block to Ultra-Fast Setting Terrazzo, BAC Craftworkers Among the First to Install Innovative New Materials

IMI and IMTEF stay ahead of new trends, materials, and innovations hitting the market to help BAC craftworkers and contractors seize more work opportunities. Here’s a look at some of IMI and IMTEF’s latest cross-disciplinary collaborations that showcase the expertise and professionalism of BAC installers to design professionals, owners, general contractors, manufacturers, and beyond.

IMI AND BAC CRAFTWORKERS TEST NEW ZERO CARBON BLOCK

Innovative startup Prometheus Materials has partnered with global design firm Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill (SOM) to develop an algae-based, zero carbon concrete block that could drastically reduce the construction industry’s impact on global carbon emissions — and in doing so, create more work opportunities for bricklayers. IMI saw a natural partnership opportunity and teamed up with Prometheus and SOM to evaluate the constructability of Bio-Block™. The first of these green units are currently installed and being assessed at the International Training Center in Bowie, Maryland as a part of the material’s ongoing performance testing.

“By letting the industry professionals work with the new material, we get direct feedback from these masons and craftworkers into the research and design process,” said Chas Peppers, Director of Operations, Research, and Innovation at SOM.

The collaboration continued at the Chicago Architecture Biennial. IMI, BAC Administrative District Council 1 of Illinois craftworkers, and signatory contractor J&E Duff, Inc. constructed a public installation designed by SOM called the Bio-Block Spiral. The exhibit is on display at the Mews in Fulton Market Chicago through Feb. 11, 2024.

BAC CONTRACTORS BECOME PREFERRED INSTALLERS FOR NEW CEMENTITIOUS TERRAZZO SYSTEM

IMI recently offered a series of terrazzo workshops across the country, in conjunction with Mapei, to give contractors the opportunity to become preferred installers of Ultratop, a self-leveling, ultra-fast setting cementitious terrazzo system that can be dry-polished within 24 hours.

“We always try to keep up with new products, because you never know what’s going to take in the market,” said John Trevisan, Vice President of Roman Mosaic and Tile, one of the latest companies to achieve Mapei’s preferred installer status. “We’re looking forward to putting this system through more testing, but so far, we like what we see. It could offer a lower cost installation than our epoxy terrazzo” — ideal for clients who want the look and durability of terrazzo for less. And that could mean more work for BAC terrazzo mechanics and finishers.

The workshops are an outstanding opportunity for signatories looking to branch into terrazzo work, like JP Phillips Inc., a signatory that installs tile, marble, stone, and concrete. “This product looks more user friendly than mud systems and epoxy. We do a ton of self-leveling concrete work, and this is in that realm,” said Dave Gontis, Field Operations Manager.

In addition to training contractors, the workshops offered continuing education credit to design professionals, general contractors, and construction managers, who have had the chance to see the craftsmanship and expertise of preferred BAC installers during mock-up tours and demonstrations.

NEW RAINSCREEN CERTIFICATE PROGRAM GIVES BAC CRAFTWORKERS DUAL CRENDENTIALS

Craftworkers Dual Credentials BAC craftworkers who successfully complete IMI/IMTEF’s recently updated Rainscreen Certificate Program receive two certificates recognized in project specifications from IMI and the Rainscreen Association in North America (RAiNA). During the two-day program, BAC craftworkers get an in-depth understanding of rainscreen systems through classroom learning and hands-on training. BAC Local 1 Connecticut members, along with Acranom Masonry, Connecticut Masonry Inc., and Joe Capasso Enterprises, were the first to participate in the new training.

“I took this class because I knew it would lead to more work for me. We’re seeing more and more projects using rainscreens,” said Jonathan Peabody, a foreperson for Acranom Masonry.

In Connecticut, members gained experience installing different systems from a variety of manufacturers, including terra cotta, stone, and fiber cement panels. “Rainscreen is our work, and this training is one way to show that we mean business,” said Gerry Marotti, President of BAC Local 1 CT. “Not just anyone can install it; you’re going to get quality when you work with BAC members.”

IMI and IMTEF stay on the forefront of new materials and innovations to ensure BAC craftworkers and contractors can claim new work opportunities and so that we can advocate for our traditional materials to decision-makers. In addition to these collaborative training opportunities and programs, this past fall IMTEF offered training on Sicis Glass Panels and introduced a Concrete Repair Certificate Program.