Brick or stone repair typically costs $500 to $3,000 depending on the extent of damage and accessibility. Repointing (tuckpointing) mortar joints on a full chimney or section of wall can run $1,000 to $5,000. New stone or brick accent work on a home exterior ranges widely from $3,000 to $30,000 or more depending on scope. Always request a written, itemized quote.
Masons work with brick, concrete block, natural stone, and artificial stone. Common projects include chimney repair and rebuilding, repointing mortar joints, building retaining walls, exterior stone cladding, patio and walkway installation, foundation repairs, and decorative feature walls. Masonry is also used for steps, pillars, and outdoor fireplaces and fire pits.
Look for crumbling or missing mortar joints, spalling (flaking or pitting) brick faces, white chalky deposits called efflorescence, cracks in mortar lines especially in a stair-step pattern, and any visible movement or bowing in walls. These are signs of water infiltration or settlement that should be addressed before they worsen, particularly before winter in Ca.
Mortar requires temperatures above 5 degrees Celsius to cure properly, so masonry work in Ca is best performed between spring and fall. Summer is the peak season and contractors fill their schedules quickly. Scheduling in early spring or late summer gives you more flexibility. Emergency repairs can be done in winter with proper heated enclosures, but at higher cost.
Repair and repointing of existing masonry typically does not require a permit. New retaining walls above a certain height (usually 1 metre), foundation additions, and any structural masonry work generally do require a permit in Ca. Your masonry contractor should confirm whether a permit is needed before starting work.
