Masonry Contractors
Brick, block, and stone masonry for walls, chimneys, fireplaces, and structural work.
Average Cost
$2,000 - $10,000
Contractors
1+
What is Masonry?
Masonry is one of the oldest and most enduring construction trades, encompassing work with brick, concrete block, natural stone, and manufactured stone veneer. Skilled masons build and repair a wide range of structures including exterior walls, chimneys, fireplaces, columns, steps, planters, mailbox pillars, and decorative facade work. The durability of masonry construction is well established, with properly built brick and stone structures lasting 100 years or more with minimal maintenance.
Residential masonry projects generally fall into two categories: new construction and repair or restoration. New construction includes features like stone veneer facades, brick accent walls, outdoor fireplaces, and block foundation walls. Repair work, often called tuckpointing or repointing, involves removing deteriorated mortar from joints and replacing it with fresh mortar to restore structural integrity and water resistance. Chimney repair is another common project, as the exposed location subjects chimney masonry to accelerated weathering from rain, freeze-thaw cycles, and flue gas condensation.
When selecting a mason, look for someone with specific experience in the type of work you need. A contractor who specializes in new stone veneer installation may not be the best choice for historical brick restoration, and vice versa. Quality masonry requires attention to proper mortar mix ratios, joint tooling, flashing and weep hole installation, and matching existing materials for repair work. Ask to see the contractor's recent projects in person, as the quality of masonry workmanship is immediately visible in straight courses, consistent joints, and clean finished surfaces.
Masonry Cost Breakdown
| Project Size | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Small project (mailbox, column, or minor repair) | $800 | $3,000 |
| Medium project (fireplace, accent wall, or chimney repair) | $3,000 | $10,000 |
| Large project (full veneer facade, retaining wall, or outdoor kitchen) | $10,000 | $30,000 |
What Affects Masonry Cost?
- 1Material type significantly affects cost, with natural stone being the most expensive, followed by brick, manufactured stone veneer, and concrete block.
- 2Project complexity including arches, curves, intricate patterns, and multi-material designs requires higher skill levels and more labor time.
- 3Scaffolding and equipment needs increase costs for chimney work, multi-story facades, and other elevated projects.
- 4Repair and restoration work is often more labor-intensive per square foot than new construction because it requires careful material matching and selective demolition.
- 5Geographic location influences both material availability and labor rates, with masonry costs varying significantly between regions.
Questions to Ask Your Masonry Contractor
- ✓What type of mortar mix do you use, and how do you match existing mortar color and composition for repair work?
- ✓Do you install proper flashing and weep holes in brick veneer and chimney construction?
- ✓Can I see examples of completed projects similar to mine, preferably ones that are at least a few years old?
- ✓Are you licensed and insured for structural masonry work, and do you carry workers' compensation coverage?
- ✓What is your approach to protecting existing landscaping and surfaces during the project?