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Classroom time to cover:

• History of masonry
• Process of manufacturing lime and Portland cement and what each brings to the mortar mix
• The process of mixing mortar
• Mortar types and their uses
• Codes pertaining to masonry chimney construction
• Tools and equipment and their use will be gone over
• Brick bond, brick positions, and joint profiles
• Parts of a chimney and the process of construction

Hands-On:

• Various stations will be set up so students can learn
• Mixing mortar
• Use of a trowel and mortar placement
• Laying brick to a line
• Use of a level
• Pier construction
• Running a chimney up the side of a building through roof chimney construction
• Pointing and striking joints

Additional 3rd Day Class:

Poured crowns and job estimating can be added if enough are interested.

About the Instructor - Mike Ellis:

I started in the chimney industry in 1994. After 3 years of employment with a local chimney company, I started Renaissance Chimney Inc. in early 1998. Over the next 25 yrs, I grew my business to specialize in fireplace restoration and masonry repairs.

I’ve held the position of regional director and president of the PA Guild of professional chimney sweeps. I chaired the education committee where I was instrumental in planning and running the PA guilds masonry school, as well as having been an instructor for both the PA Guild and the Masonry Heater Association of North America.

I've held the CSIA credential, and I'm a current NFI Master Hearth professional. And I am currently working towards my master heater mason certification.

At the beginning of 2023, I co-founded the international design firm Ellis Stuhltrager. Part of my new business will be to offer fireplace and hearth design services, construction of custom furniture, and artisan-quality remodeling. Steps were made to set up a training center on-site and pursue teaching.

Hotels:

• Hilton
• Marriot
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites