Francisco A. Martínez: President, Eagle Masonry Services

Masonry is the cornerstone of construction, a trade that requires patience, skill and physical labor. “Masonry is heavy construction work. When people ask me what I do, I tell them I do the tough part of construction work: brick, block, stone and concrete,” says Francisco A. Martínez, president of Eagle Masonry Services, an Atlanta-based masonry contractor with more than a decade of experience in commercial, residential and institutional projects.

Without masons there would be no foundations or buildings, so training his team in the proper use of tools and materials is a must. “Safety is a big issue when handling heavy material and equipment,” Martínez says. “The type of commercial work we do requires the highest quality-control regulations and safety levels to comply with OSHA standards. Good tools must increase efficiency and safety levels, be durable and guaranteed by the manufacturer.”

“Masons are like soldiers. The better their tools, the better they can defend themselves out there on the field.” — Francisco A. Martínez

STOW Mortar/Concrete Mixers. “Mixers are our most important tools because they have a direct impact on productivity. These mixers have a very efficient design and come with a Honda engine that stops working when oil levels are low to avoid damage until oil is replaced. They are equipped with chain transmissions and a steeper price, but they cut production time and double your efficiency.”

AOSafety Polycarbonate Safety Glasses. “I purchase these glasses for my crew. Safety glasses crack and get scratched easily, reducing their visibility. I prefer to give them a pair of goggles I can easily replace every time they crack or get scratched. These glasses are very durable and offer good coverage.”

FallTech ComforTech D-Ring Harness. “This safety harness is a must-have piece of equipment, especially when working at over 8 feet. It is padded and very comfortable, a good thing when your workers need to wear it day in and day out.”

Makita 7¼" Magnesium Circular Saw.
“When considering a handsaw, Makita is the way to go. They are very durable and you really get your money’s worth. It is definitely better to provide your workers with a good tool that is durable and increases their efficiency. Knowing this makes them take good care of it.”
Marshalltown 12" PermaShape London Brick Trowel with DuraSoft Handle. “The Trowel is a classic tool and by far the most widely used. It’s an icon. It’s the tool you hold in your hands when you go to work. I like good quality trowels like this one, with durable ergonomic handles and carbon-steel construction that lasts.”

Bosch 4½" and 7" Masonry Circular Saw Blades. “These masonry blades are good with any circular saw. They are abrasive enough to cut through concrete, metal, masonry and stainless steel.”

UH 650 Hilti Hammer Drill. “This is a very versatile, heavy-duty hammer drill that can be used with wood and masonry. Its light weight helps workers work more comfortably.”