When it comes to building or fixing brick, stone, or concrete work on your home or business, hiring the right mason can make all the difference. If you’ve ever typed “masonry near me” into a search engine, you’re already on the right path. Local masons offer a mix of convenience, faster service, and knowledge of local conditions that out-of-town contractors just can’t match.
Whether you’re planning a new patio, repairing a crumbling chimney, or upgrading your commercial property, here are seven tips to help you hire the best masonry contractor in your area.
1. Check for Licensing and Insurance
Before anything else, make sure the mason is properly licensed and insured. A licensed contractor has met local or state requirements and is trained to do the job safely and correctly.
Also, insurance matters—especially general liability and worker’s compensation. These protect you in case of accidents or damage during the project. Don’t be shy about asking to see proof of these documents.
Tip: If a contractor hesitates to show you their license or insurance, that’s a red flag.
2. Review Online Ratings and Local Testimonials
Online reviews can be incredibly helpful when choosing a masonry contractor. Websites like Google, Yelp, and Angi (formerly Angie’s List) offer insights from past clients in your area.
Look for consistent feedback—both good and bad. Are people praising their attention to detail? Complaining about delays or poor communication? A strong mix of recent, positive reviews is a good sign.
Tip: Pay attention to how the contractor responds to negative reviews. Professionalism counts!
3. Look at Previous Masonry Work and Portfolios
A great mason will have no problem showing you photos or examples of their past work. This gives you a sense of their experience with projects like yours.
Are you building a brick fireplace? Repairing a stone wall? Make sure the mason has done similar jobs before. You can even ask if they have local references or addresses where you can see their work in person.
Tip: Look for clean lines, level surfaces, and matching colors in their photos—it speaks to their craftsmanship.
4. Get Multiple Quotes, Not Just the Cheapest
It’s smart to get a few different estimates for your project. This helps you understand the average price and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
While it’s tempting to go with the cheapest offer, the lowest bid isn’t always the best. It could mean the contractor is cutting corners or using low-quality materials.
Tip: Compare what each quote includes—materials, labor, clean-up, and timelines.
5. Ask About Materials and Project Timeline
Good masons use good materials. Don’t be afraid to ask what type of bricks, stones, or concrete they plan to use. Higher quality materials last longer and look better over time.
Also, ask for a clear project timeline. How long will it take from start to finish? Will they be working on other jobs at the same time?
Tip: A reliable contractor will give you a realistic start date and daily work schedule.
6. Check for Local Knowledge and Area Codes
Masonry isn’t one-size-fits-all. Soil type, climate, and even city codes can affect how a project should be done. Hiring someone local means they’re more likely to understand these things.
For example, if you live in a cold area with freeze-thaw cycles, your mason should know how to use the right materials to avoid cracking.
Tip: Local masons also tend to know city officials and inspectors, which can help speed up the permitting process.
7. Prioritize Communication and Professionalism
How a contractor communicates with you from day one says a lot. Do they return calls quickly? Are they on time for meetings? Do they listen to your ideas and explain things clearly?
Good communication helps avoid misunderstandings and keeps your project running smoothly. It also shows that they take their work—and your time—seriously.
Tip: If a mason is hard to reach before the project starts, they might be even harder to deal with later.
Bonus Tip: Ask for a Written Contract
Once you’ve chosen a mason, get everything in writing. A solid contract should include:
- A detailed scope of work
- Timeline and start date
- Payment schedule
- Materials to be used
- Warranties or guarantees
Tip: A clear contract protects both you and the contractor. Don’t start any work without one.
FAQs
1. How do I find the best masonry near me?
Start with online searches and referrals. Then, check licenses, reviews, and past work before making a choice.
2. Are online reviews trustworthy?
Most are, especially if they’re detailed and from verified users. Look for trends across multiple platforms.
3. Should I hire a general contractor or a masonry specialist?
For detailed brick, stone, or concrete work, a masonry specialist is usually the better choice.
4. What’s the average cost of hiring a mason?
Costs vary by location and project, but expect to pay between $50–$100 per hour, or more for complex jobs.
5. How can I verify a mason’s license or insurance?
Ask for copies of their credentials and confirm them with your local contractor licensing board.