Find Professional Masonry Contractors

Learn about the different types of jobs masonry contractors handle, how to hire the right contractor, and the average costs involved. 

Masonry is a time-honored craft that involves building structures from individual units like bricks, stones, or concrete blocks. Masonry contractors specialize in this craft and are crucial for constructing and maintaining various types of buildings and structures. Whether you are planning a new construction project or need repairs on an existing structure, understanding the roles and services provided by masonry contractors is essential.

This article explores the types of jobs masonry contractors handle, provides a guide to hiring the right contractor, and outlines the average costs involved.

Types of Jobs Masonry Contractors Do

Masonry contractors offer a wide range of services, from new constructions to renovations and repairs. Here are some of the common types of jobs they handle:

1. Bricklaying and Brickwork

• New Constructions: Building walls, facades, and entire structures from bricks.
• Repairs and Restoration: Fixing damaged bricks and restoring historical brick buildings to their original glory.

2. Stone Masonry

• Stone Veneer Installation: Applying a thin layer of stone to enhance the appearance of walls and exteriors.
• Stone Wall Construction: Building retaining walls, garden walls, and structural stone walls.
• Stone Patios and Walkways: Creating durable and attractive outdoor spaces with stone pavers.

3. Concrete Masonry

• Block Walls: Constructing strong and durable walls using concrete blocks.
• Foundations and Footings: Laying the groundwork for buildings and structures with concrete foundations.
• Paving and Driveways: Installing concrete driveways, sidewalks, and patios.

4. Chimney and Fireplace Construction and Repair

• Chimney Building: Constructing new chimneys that comply with building codes and enhance home aesthetics.
• Fireplace Installation: Building custom fireplaces and repairing or upgrading existing ones.
• Chimney Maintenance: Cleaning, inspecting, and repairing chimneys to ensure safety and functionality.

5. Tuckpointing and Repointing

• Tuckpointing: Enhancing the appearance of brickwork by applying a contrasting color mortar to create fine lines.
• Repointing: Repairing the mortar joints in brick or stone walls to prevent water ingress and structural damage.

6. Masonry Restoration and Preservation

• Historical Building Restoration: Preserving and restoring the integrity of historic masonry structures.
• Waterproofing: Applying treatments to protect masonry from water damage and extend its lifespan.

Guide to Hiring the Right Masonry Contractor

Choosing the right masonry contractor is crucial to ensure quality workmanship and a successful project. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:

1. Define Your Project Scope

• Clearly outline the specifics of your project, including the type of work needed, materials preferred, and any design elements.
• Decide whether you need a contractor for new construction, repair, or restoration work.

2. Research and Gather Recommendations

• Seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have had similar work done.
• Check online reviews and ratings on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Angi (formerly Angie's List).

3. Verify Credentials and Experience

• Ensure the contractor is licensed and insured to perform masonry work in your area.
• Ask about their experience with similar projects and request examples of their previous work.

4. Request Multiple Quotes

• Obtain detailed quotes from at least three contractors to compare pricing, materials, and timelines.
• Be wary of significantly low bids, as they may indicate lower quality work or hidden costs.

5. Check References and Portfolio

• Ask for references from past clients and follow up to inquire about their experience with the contractor.
• Review the contractor’s portfolio to assess the quality and style of their work.

6. Discuss Project Details and Contract

• Clearly communicate your project requirements, including materials, timeline, and budget.
• Ensure all terms are detailed in a written contract, including payment schedules, work schedules, and warranty information.

7. Review and Approve the Plan

• Before work begins, review the project plan and design to ensure it meets your expectations.
• Discuss any potential challenges or changes that may arise during the project.

Average Costs of Masonry Work

The cost of hiring a masonry contractor can vary widely based on the scope of the project, materials used, and the contractor's experience. Here’s a breakdown of average costs for different types of masonry work:

1. Bricklaying and Brickwork

• New Construction: $10 - $20 per square foot.
• Repairs: $300 - $700 for minor repairs; extensive work may cost more.

2. Stone Masonry

• Stone Veneer: $10 - $30 per square foot, depending on the type of stone.
• Stone Walls: $25 - $50 per square foot for structural walls.
• Patios and Walkways: $15 - $40 per square foot.

3. Concrete Masonry

• Block Walls: $10 - $25 per square foot.
• Foundations and Footings: $5,000 - $10,000 for standard residential foundations.
• Driveways: $4 - $15 per square foot, depending on thickness and finish.

4. Chimney and Fireplace Work

• New Chimneys: $4,000 - $15,000, based on size and materials.
• Fireplace Installation: $3,000 - $8,000 for custom installations.
• Chimney Repairs: $300 - $1,500, depending on the extent of the damage.

5. Tuckpointing and Repointing

• Tuckpointing: $5 - $25 per square foot.
• Repointing: $5 - $12 per square foot.

6. Restoration and Preservation

• Historical Restoration: $50 - $100 per square foot, depending on the complexity.
• Waterproofing: $3 - $10 per square foot.

Popular Masonry Contractors and Services

1. Angi (formerly Angie's List)

• Overview: A leading platform for finding and hiring local contractors, including masonry experts.
• Services: Connects homeowners with verified and reviewed masonry contractors.

2. HomeAdvisor

• Overview: A trusted service for finding local contractors for various home improvement projects.
• Services: Offers a wide range of masonry services from vetted professionals.

3. Thumbtack

• Overview: An online marketplace that connects people with local service providers, including masonry contractors.
• Services: Provides quotes from multiple contractors to compare prices and services.

4. Masonry Contractors Association of America (MCAA)

• Overview: A professional organization representing masonry contractors across the United States.
• Services: Provides a directory of certified masonry contractors and resources for finding the right professional.

5. Brick and Masonry

• Overview: Specializes in providing quality masonry services, including brickwork, stone masonry, and more.
• Services: Offers a wide range of masonry construction and repair services.