General Shale

General Shale is one of North America’s most established masonry manufacturers, known for producing clay brick, thin masonry, stone products, and architectural building materials used in residential, commercial, and large-scale architectural projects. Founded in 1928, the company grew through the merger of regional brick manufacturers and gradually expanded across the United States and Canada, becoming one of the largest brick producers in North America. Today, General Shale operates a broad manufacturing and distribution network with dozens of production facilities and sales locations, supplying architects, developers, and builders with a wide range of masonry solutions. Their portfolio includes traditional clay brick, thin brick systems, concrete block, stone products, and outdoor architectural materials designed for durability and aesthetic versatility. The company is part of the international building materials group Wienerberger, the world’s largest brick manufacturer. Through this global connection, General Shale combines regional manufacturing expertise with international research and product development, allowing architects to use masonry materials that balance performance, sustainability, and timeless architectural expression.