How to Hire the Right Masonry Contractor: Why the Lowest Bid Isn’t Always Best

Hiring a masonry contractor can be intimidating, especially if you’re tempted by the lowest bid or considering a DIY approach. While masonry might look simple—stacking bricks or blocks neatly—it’s a highly skilled trade that requires knowledge, experience, and attention to detail. Choosing the right contractor can save you money, headaches, and long-term repairs. Here’s what every building owner should know.

1. Don’t Automatically Choose the Lowest Bid

It’s natural to want the cheapest option, but the lowest bid is rarely the best value. Masonry contractors who charge too little may be cutting corners—using lower-quality materials, skipping proper reinforcement, or underestimating labor time.

Experienced contractors may have higher bids, but that price often reflects:

• Quality materials

• Skilled labor

• Attention to structural details and code compliance

• Warranties on workmanship and materials

Tip: Compare bids based on scope, materials, timeline, and guarantees—not just price.

2. Verify Experience and Specialization

Masonry is not one-size-fits-all. Different projects—brick veneer, CMU walls, natural stone, or historic restoration—require different skills and knowledge.

Questions to ask:

• How many similar projects have you completed?

• Can you provide references or photos of past work?

• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

Contractors with proven experience in your type of project are far more likely to deliver long-lasting results.

3. Ask the Right Questions

Good contractors welcome detailed questions. Asking about their process shows professionalism and helps you assess expertise:

• How do you ensure proper rebar placement, flashing, and water management?

• What materials do you recommend, and why?

• How do you handle weather or unexpected delays?

• What warranties do you provide on materials and workmanship?

The answers will reveal not just their technical knowledge but their commitment to quality.

4. Avoid DIY for Structural or Complex Projects

Even “simple” masonry work can quickly become complicated: improper mortar, misaligned blocks, insufficient reinforcement, or poor water management can lead to cracks, spalling, or long-term structural issues. For high-value or load-bearing projects, hiring a professional is always the safest choice.

5. Value Quality Over Price

The best masonry work lasts for decades. Investing in a skilled contractor upfront protects your building, saves money on future repairs, and ensures the finished project looks great. Think of your masonry contractor as an investment in durability, aesthetics, and safety.

Key Takeaways

1. The lowest bid isn’t always the best choice—look for experience, skill, and quality.

2. Verify credentials and past projects.

3. Ask detailed questions about materials, processes, and warranties.

4. Avoid DIY for complex or structural masonry work.

5. Remember: great masonry work is built to last, and quality almost always costs a little more upfront.

Masonry Direct: Specialty Masonry Products Made Easy

At Masonry Direct, we understand that details matter. From stone anchors and wall ties to flashing and reinforced poly, we provide the materials contractors need to get the job done right. Our team can help you plan, source, and execute masonry projects with confidence—because the right tools and guidance make all the difference.