Brick & Stone Masonry Contractors Near You

Building with masonry is an art form that goes back farther than the ancient Egyptian pyramids. It continues to be a primary method for construction because it is long-lasting and highly durable. It increases the value of your home and adds to its aesthetic appeal. Need help finding masonry contractors near you? Enter your zip code to be connected today to local masonry companies.

Uses for Masonry

Stone, bricks and manufactured bricks and block are used in masonry construction. It is applied in the full exterior finish on buildings or to create accent areas as part of the design. Concrete block is commonly used to construct the foundations of building. It is also used to build retaining walls in landscaping. Overall, it is a versatile and interesting material for architectural design in siding, fireplaces, patios and walkways.

• Bricks. Brick is made from fired natural clay. It comes in hundreds of colors and a variety of finishes.
• Stone. Hard, less porous stone is the best option for masonry construction. It lasts a lifetime and is available in numerous styles.
• Manufactured Brick and Stone. Cement, natural aggregates and iron oxide pigments are used to manufacture realistic brick, block and stone that is much lighter in weight. It is available in hundreds of decorative finishes.

Pros

• Masonry is non-combustible and therefore fire resistant.
• Exterior walls withstand decades of inclement weather, extreme temperatures and U.V. rays from the sun.
• Masonry offers superior soundproofing, blocking noise better than any other building material.
• Your home is termite-free since there is no wood for the vermin to eat.
• Masonry does not rot, which means a significant reduction in mildew and fungus between the exterior and interior walls.
• Concrete block stores heat so your home stays warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, reducing the cost of your energy bills.
• Masonry is recognized as a "green" product since it does not deplete natural resources such as timber.
• Insurance companies offer a discount on home insurance premiums because masonry provides increased security, fire and termite protection.
• There is virtually no maintenance involved, and your masonry will remain intact with minor repairs for decades.
• Due to the fact that homes built with masonry are maintenance free and high quality, they have a better resale value on the real estate market.

Cons

• Masonry costs more than other building materials and due to the weight, it has higher delivery costs.
• Brick and block construction needs time to fully dry between intervals, which increases the building time and labor costs.
• Masonry is a form of "wet" construction so it cannot be done in extreme high or low temperatures or it loses structural integrity.
• There is a risk for settlement with this type of construction, causing cracks in the mortar and masonry materials.
• If the mortar between the masonry is applied haphazardly it leads to problems inside the cavity wall that allow dampness to enter your interior walls.
• Masonry is a porous material and therefore prone to molding and damage from ice expansion in humid climates.
• Masonry is very heavy and increases the stress load on the foundation of your home.