DS.Masonry
Est. 2018 · Kingston
00FAQ

Straight answers,
no upsell.

Everything we get asked most often. Don't see your question? Call or text and we'll answer in plain English.

01Quoting & Pricing

It depends entirely on scope, materials and access. A small repointing job might be $1,500 — a full natural stone fireplace can run $15,000+. We never quote sight-unseen. Site visits and written quotes are always free.

Never. Site visits, written quotes, and material recommendations are 100% free with zero obligation, even if you ultimately go with someone else.

Yes — typically 25–35% on contract signing to lock in your start date and order materials. Progress payments are tied to project milestones, with the final payment after walk-through.

E-transfer, cheque, or cash. We do not currently accept credit cards. All quotes include HST.

02Scheduling & Process

Typically 3–8 weeks for new projects, depending on season and scope. Emergency repairs (active leaks, structural issues) get squeezed in faster — call us.

We work April through November in most years. Mortar needs temperatures consistently above 5°C to cure properly. Interior work (fireplaces, basement parging) continues year-round.

Repointing: 2–7 days. Cultured stone façade: 1–2 weeks. Block foundation: 1–2 weeks. Full restoration: 3–6 weeks. Every quote includes a clear timeline.

Yes. Most clients get daily site photos via text or email, plus a weekly written summary on longer projects.

03Materials & Workmanship

On heritage buildings, the wrong mortar will literally destroy the brick. Soft pre-1930s brick needs lime-based mortar that flexes with seasonal movement. Hard cement mortar traps moisture and causes the face of historic brick to spall off. We always match mortar to substrate — period.

Almost always. We have access to reclaimed, period-correct, and custom-tinted brick. For trickier matches we'll bring you sample boards before ordering.

Natural stone is quarried — heavier, more expensive, and lasts essentially forever. Cultured stone is manufactured concrete cast in stone moulds — lighter, faster to install, more affordable, and visually excellent for most applications.

Yes. Single-brick replacements, hairline crack repairs, and small repointing jobs are all welcome. We'd rather do a small job right than watch it become a big job later.

04Warranty & After-Care

Two-year workmanship warranty on all new construction (foundations, new walls, new fireplaces). One-year warranty on repointing and restoration work. Material warranties are passed through per manufacturer terms.

We send a written care guide with every project. Short version: protect from rain for the first 24 hours, avoid pressure-washing for the first year, and reseal stone surfaces every 3–5 years if recommended.

Yes — $2 million general liability coverage and full WSIB workers' compensation coverage. Both certificates are provided in writing before any work begins.

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