Executive Director
Masonry Institute of America
Los Angeles, California
ABSTRACT
The rapid development of technology in the second half of the 20th century introduces a dilemma to the construction process. Computers can make the masonry construction design process so precise that unachievable construction tolerances are required. The mason contractor is under constant demand to complete the project in a timely manner, to an unrealistic schedule, within budget, which is usually understated, and with construction quality that is second to none. Issues of schedule and bidding are not contained in this paper. This paper addresses the issues associated with the high level of quality anticipated by the architect and developer and the minimum level of quality, which is the goal of the contractor. A logical attempt to resolve the two levels of quality is through a realistic inspection process. It is also important for the reader to understand that this paper addresses the issues of structural integrity, not aesthetics.
KEYWORDS: Quality, quality assurance, inspection, masonry inspector, design, masonry
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