How to Choose the Right Masonry Contractor

When you pick a masonry contractor in Boston, you’re making a decision that could affect your property for decades... maybe longer if we're talking historic preservation work. And yet, so many property owners treat it like a quick Google search and a handshake.

TL;DR: The right masonry contractor has verifiable experience, proper licensing, and clear communication. Skip the cheapest bid and focus on value, references, and whether they actually specialize in what you need.

What Should I Look for in a Masonry Contractor's Experience?

Experience matters, and contractors vary by skill level and past work. A contractor who's laid a thousand brick patios might not be your best bet for foundation repair or chimney restoration. We've had to fix plenty of projects where a general mason before us took on specialized work and... well, let's just say the results weren't pretty.

During an inspection or initial call, make sure you ask specific questions:

• How many projects like yours have they completed? 

• Can I see a link to your portfolio?

• Do you know period-appropriate techniques for my historic building? 

Generally speaking, the older your building is, the more expertise your historic masonry contractor should have. If your building's from the 1800s, you want someone who understands historic mortar composition and period-appropriate techniques. A job like that is a whole ‘nother ballgame from modern construction.

Are Licenses and Insurance Really That Important?

Yes, absolutely. A licensed masonry contractor has met state requirements and can be held accountable. Insurance (both liability and workers' comp) means you're not on the hook if someone gets hurt or something goes wrong on your property.

Here's the thing though: actually verify it. Don't just take their word for it. Ask for certificate numbers and call to confirm they're current. Taking ten minutes to do this could save you tens of thousands.

How Do I Know If They're Actually Good at What They Do?

Get references and ask if the masonry contractor showed up when promised? How'd they handle unexpected issues? Would this person hire them again without hesitation?

Better yet, ask to visit a completed project (see how they fixed a wall that was falling apart or brought a full historic building back to life) . A contractor who's proud of their work will happily arrange it. Pay attention to details: clean mortar joints, consistent color matching, proper flashing around chimneys. It’s the little things that reveal true craftsmanship.

Should I Always Go With the Lowest Masonry Bid?

The cheapest bid is often the most expensive in the long run. Quality materials cost money. Skilled labor costs money. Proper prep work and cleanup cost money. When someone undercuts everyone else by 30%, they're cutting corners somewhere.

Should I Go With the Highest Masonry Bid?

That said, the highest bid isn't automatically the best either. Look for detailed estimates that break down labor, materials, and timeline. If they provide vague numbers, you should consider ruling them out. Transparency is crucial in these early phases, because they dictate the professional relationship down the line.

Does Communication Style Matter When Hiring a Masonry Contractor?

You'll be working with these contractors for weeks or months. If getting a straight answer feels like pulling teeth during the estimate phase, imagine dealing with that when problems arise mid-project.

Good contractors explain things clearly and are happy to go above and beyond to simplify terms as needed until you understand. Some additional green flags are: they return calls within a reasonable timeframe, they set realistic expectations about weather delays and material lead times. This stuff matters more than people think.

The foundation of your building (literally and figuratively) deserves more than a rushed decision based on whoever answered the phone first. Take your time, ask hard questions, and trust your gut when something feels off.

Ready to work with masonry professionals in Boston who actually know their craft? Contact us today at JMS Masonry & Restoration. We serve the greater Boston area with expertise in chimneys, foundation repair, historic preservation, and all your commercial masonry needs.