Each year, masons build and repair a wide variety of stone and brick
structures, including retaining walls, steps, stoops, patios, chimneys,
mailboxes, and outside home walls. While the cost of building the same
structure out of brick, stone, and mortar is generally more expensive
than building out of wood, brick and stone have a distinctive, classic
look and, if constructed correctly, are extremely durable. Because
experience is key to successful repair, make sure the mason you hire is
experienced in the particular type of work you need. A mason highly
experienced in building new homes may have no experience in repair or
matching brick and mortar. Such a mason might not be the best choice
for repairing a crack or a sagging arch. A few masonry companies did
well in the Home Reports research.