A Free Resource for Contractors: The Block Design CollectiveWords: Block Design CollectivePhotos: Block Design CollectiveThe Concrete Masonry Checkoff has launched the Block Design Collective (BDC), a national resource that provides fast, reliable guidance for anyone designing or building with concrete masonry. For contractors, the benefit is straightforward: better information upfront, stronger specifications, and fewer surprises once construction begins.Available at blockdesign.org, the BDC offers no-cost design and constructability support to help project teams determine if, where, and how concrete masonry can improve performance, cost efficiency, and long-term value.Practical Support for Real ProjectsWhen you contact the BDC, you can expect a response from a Regional Technical Director, typically within one business day. Each request is supported by a network of practicing architects and engineers to ensure practical guidance that keeps projects moving.Tino Kalayil, the BDC’s Technical Director for the Midwest region, works closely with contractors and sees how this support strengthens both bidding and project execution. “One of the ways we are helping masons is by reviewing projects they are tracking and preparing to bid. We look for additional opportunities for masonry or places where CMU can be used more efficiently. If something is overdesigned or just not quite right, we can help identify value engineering ideas that recover cost or create more scope,” Kalayil said.The BDC can assist with code references, detail and specification reviews, fire and sound considerations, constructability input, moisture-control detailing, energy-code questions, and support during construction. Cost-estimating assistance is also available for larger projects.Helping Contractors Strengthen Their PositionKalayil notes that the BDC serves as a partner that contractors can lean on throughout a project. “We want to bring more food to the table for masons. Bringing us in as another set of eyes often uncovers opportunities that elevate the role of masonry and enhance the project overall.”Every project requires unique assistance and familiarity with the local code and climate requirements, a strength of BDC to assist on both national and regional levels.When to Ask for HelpContractors who bring the BDC in early gain the greatest value, as potential challenges and opportunities can be identified before they affect the project. As Kalayil explains, “If anything in the drawings raises a question or leaves you unsure, get in touch. Sometimes it only takes a quick review to confirm a detail or uncover more opportunities for masonry. Even if it’s just a hunch that the project could benefit from more masonry, we will look at it with you and help make sense of it.”He adds that the relationship is meant to feel familiar and accessible. “Think of us as an engineer in your office. Just as you would pop into my office with a question, you can do the same with the BDC. When in doubt, reach out, and we will work through it together.”How to Use the BDCContractors can seek support with early design questions, specification reviews, moisture or energy-code detailing, or guidance during construction. Assistance is available whether the need involves a small detail or a more comprehensive review.Getting StartedSimply visit blockdesign.org and complete a short inquiry form. Once submitted, a Regional Technical Director will follow up promptly to assist you.The Block Design Collective is also accessible through the Beauty of Block website by clicking on “Design Resources” on the main menu or the blue Project Support button located in the lower-left corner of your screen. ___The Block Design Collective provides the masonry industry with a free, centralized resource that elevates concrete masonry and supports better project outcomes. For contractors, it is a chance to work with greater clarity and confidence, backed by experts who are ready to help at no cost and with no strings attached.About: Industry News
