Many homeowners like to save money when possible by tackling home improvement projects themselves. However, when it comes to stonework, it's important to hire a skilled professional mason instead of trying to DIY. To help you understand why, the following sections explain the benefits of hiring a mason for your stone walkway, retaining wall, or other masonry projects instead of going it alone.

Why Hire a Mason for Your Stone Project?

Expertise

A professional mason has the experience and training to take on your project successfully with an understanding of how to avoid possible pitfalls and errors that an amateur might make. For instance, if you're patching older masonry, it's not a good idea to use modern bricks and mortar alongside masonry erected 100 years ago; these are made with Portland cement which is much less porous — and therefore expands and contracts less. The differences in expansion can cause the adjacent sections to deteriorate quickly as they rub against each other.

Specialized Tools

Unless you have an unusually comprehensive toolkit, you probably don't have all the necessary equipment to tackle a masonry job. A professional mason, on the other hand, owns all the custom tools necessary to complete the project efficiently — including brick splitters, trowels, masonry jointers, and line stretchers. Moreover, they have considerable experience using these tools; whereas, you might not be able to use them correctly if you invested in the equipment.

Insurance

If you undertake a masonry project and end up damaging the existing stonework, you must pay for the repairs. This is not necessary with a professional mason or concrete contractor. They'll do the job right the first time. Moreover, if something went wrong, a reputable company will have liability insurance that financially protects you against any damage that might occur.

Experience is everything when it comes to masonry work. If you have an important stone or concrete project that requires expertise, contact Perinton Masonry, the leading foundation contractor in Fairport, NY. Whether you need a sidewalk or driveway poured or a brick or concrete foundation repaired, they offer fast, reliable service and exceptional customer care. Visit their website to send them a message, or call (585) 223-3362 to discuss your options with a helpful professional.