Homeowner guide · Masonry

How to hire a mason

To hire a mason, look at photos of repairs like yours, ask how they'll match the mortar and brick, and make sure they explain what caused the damage. For old brick, ask what mortar mix they'll use, since mortar that's too hard can damage softer bricks.

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Quick answer

Start here

1
Photos of similar repairs
2
Mortar and brick matching
3
Cause of damage explained
4
Insurance

Plain-English, no jargon

What to look for

Experience with your material and the age of your home
Liability insurance
Photos of repairs that blend in
A clear explanation of what caused the damage
A written warranty

Questions to ask before you hire

What mortar mix will you use, and why?
How will you match the color and texture?
Is this repointing or decorative tuckpointing?
What caused the cracks, and will this repair fix the cause?
Do you need scaffolding, and is it in the price?

Getting and comparing quotes

Give each mason the same areas to repair. Compare the repair method and mortar, not just square footage, and ask whether they'll fix flashing or drainage behind the damage.

Red flags

Uses hard modern mortar on old, soft brick
Won't explain the cause of the damage
Patches with caulk instead of mortar
No photos of past work

FAQ

Common questions

How often does brick need repointing?

Mortar wears faster than brick. Repoint when joints crack, crumble or recess.

What's the difference between repointing and tuckpointing?

Repointing replaces failed mortar. Tuckpointing adds a contrasting line for a crisp look.

Is a mason the same as a concrete contractor?

They overlap, but masons focus on brick, block and stone.

Masonry

Common masonry jobs

All masonry

More advice

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