top of page
Copy of EXCELLENCE MASONRY & CONTRACTING (Logo) (2).png

EXCELLENCE MASONRY & CONTRACTING

EXCELLENCE MASONRY & CONTRACTING

covered-porch-granite-avon.jpg

Simsbury's Experts in Hardscape & Landscape Construction

Consistently ranked as one of Connecticut's best places to live, Simsbury is a town that values community and quality. Excellence Masonry and Contracting is proud to offer Simsbury residents our full range of high-quality services. We specialize in creating beautiful, functional outdoor living spaces, from custom landscape design to expert masonry and hardscape installation, helping you make the most of your home.

Get in Touch

Learn More About Spaces We Build & Services We Provide in Simsbury

Learn More About Services We Provide in Simsbury

Custom Walkway Installation

Design/Design and Build

Decks

Concrete

Commercial Snow Removal

Commercial Landscape Maintenance

Columns/Gates

Brickwork

3 Season Spaces

Patio Installation

Stone Walkway Construction & Paver Path Installation

A custom walkway is the structural frame of your home's entrance in Simsbury, requiring a balance of aesthetics and winter safety. We prioritize materials like Thermal Bluestone and textured Granite for their non-slip properties and resilience. To prevent heaving, we excavate to remove frost-prone soil and install a deep aggregate base compacted in 2-inch lifts. This technical preparation ensures your walkway remains perfectly level and safe, providing a sophisticated transition that handles heavy use and winter weather with ease.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Turnkey Landscape Construction & Multi-Trade Project Design

Our design-build philosophy in Simsbury provides homeowners with a single point of responsibility for their most complex property renovations. We manage every phase, from initial architectural sketches and site analysis to the final stone set and lighting. This model allows us to control quality, budget, and timelines with total precision. By integrating expert masonry and site engineering with professional planning, we deliver custom, high-end environments that are built for longevity and designed to exceed the aesthetic standards of the Simsbury community.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Composite Deck Building & Wood Deck Construction

A high-performance deck in Simsbury must be engineered to handle heavy snow loads and provide a level, safe retreat. Every structural post is set on concrete footings extending below the frost line for permanent stability. We protect the house connection by securing ledger boards with structural lags and G60 metal flashing to prevent moisture from compromising your home’s envelope. By integrating joist tape and stainless fasteners into the frame, we maximize the life of the structure, providing a safe, sophisticated outdoor living space.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Finished Concrete Flatwork & Structural Concrete Services

Professional concrete work in Simsbury requires a technical approach to mix design and thermal protection. We use high-strength, air-entrained concrete mixes specifically engineered to survive local freeze-thaw cycles without scaling. During the finishing process, we apply a textured broom finish for safety or a professional sealant to protect against salt and oil penetration. To manage expansion and prevent random cracking, we place control joints at precise intervals, ensuring a durable, clean-looking surface for your Simsbury home or facility.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Winter Snow Removal & Commercial Parking Lot Plowing

Commercial snow removal in Simsbury requires a zero-tolerance approach to ensure site safety and business continuity. We utilize heavy-duty plows, loaders, and high-capacity salt spreaders to manage parking lots and entries with total efficiency. Our process includes detailed service logs and proactive deployment before accumulation begins to minimize liability. By monitoring local weather patterns and coordinating with our GPS-equipped crews, we ensure your facility remains safe and fully accessible for employees and customers during even the most intense winter weather.

Get in Touch

Corporate Landscape Care & Seasonal Grounds Maintenance

Commercial properties in Simsbury require a consistent maintenance program to ensure a professional appearance that reflects their brand and protects site safety. Our services focus on site stewardship, including precision mowing, proactive bed care, and seasonal pruning. We prioritize the long-term health of your landscape assets, managing fertilization to keep the property vibrant and resilient against the local climate. With a focus on reliability and clear communication, we provide the meticulous care required to maintain the professional image of your Simsbury business or facility.

Get in Touch

Stone Entry Columns & Driveway Gate Systems

Masonry columns provide a grand, structural anchor for gates and fencing on Simsbury estates. We build every column over a concrete footing extending below the 42-inch frost line to ensure it remains perfectly plumb. Internal steel reinforcement and concrete-filled cores provide the structural mass required to support heavy gate hardware without sagging. We finish each column with custom stone caps and integrated lighting, creating a secure and sophisticated entrance that enhances the architectural character and security of your property.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Brick Steps, Patios & Masonry Feature Builds

Traditional brickwork in Simsbury requires precision moisture control and high-quality material selection to complement the town’s historic architecture. We prioritize high-fired bricks that resist spalling and salt damage during Connecticut winters. Our team implements professional "stay-dry" techniques, including flashing and weep holes, to prevent water from becoming trapped behind the masonry. From chimneys to garden walls, we provide the craftsmanship required to ensure your brickwork remains structurally sound and visually stunning.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Screened Porch Builds & 3-Season Room Additions

A 3-season space in Simsbury allows you to enjoy the landscape while being protected from insects and weather. We build these structures with code-exceeding framing and integrated moisture barriers to ensure long-term durability. By utilizing high-performance screen systems and insulated flooring, we extend the usability of the space throughout most of the year. Our design-build team focuses on a seamless architectural match with your home, creating a functional retreat that adds significant living area and value to your property.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Interlocking Paver Patios & Bluestone Terrace Installations

A high-performance patio in Simsbury serves as the structural foundation for your outdoor living area. We utilize premium materials like Thermal Bluestone and high-density Outdoor Porcelain, but the technical longevity depends on our excavation process. We replace frost-prone native soil with a deep foundation of processed aggregate, compacted in 2-inch lifts. This mechanical stabilization ensures a perfectly level surface that resists the shifting caused by Connecticut’s intense freeze-thaw cycles, providing a durable and sophisticated environment for entertaining on your residential estate.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Built-In Outdoor Kitchens & Built-In Grilling Stations

An outdoor kitchen in Simsbury is a complex design-build project integrating masonry, carpentry, and utility engineering for year-round use. We utilize G60 galvanized framing or masonry cores to ensure the cabinetry and appliances are fully protected from the elements. Every installation includes protective utility sleeves for gas, water, and electric lines, ensuring long-term safety and site precision. We balance high-performance stone counters with custom layouts, creating a professional-grade culinary space as durable as it is beautiful.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Outdoor Audio-Video Installation & Entertainment Systems

Bringing high-end entertainment into the Simsbury landscape requires weather-proof technology and professional utility engineering. We install 4K outdoor displays and high-fidelity directional speakers designed specifically for the open-air environment. Our installation process includes protective utility sleeves for all wiring to ensure long-term durability and safety. By strategic placement and network integration, we create an immersive media experience that allows you to enjoy movies or music with total clarity without disturbing the peaceful atmosphere of your Simsbury neighborhood.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Masonry & Hardscape Contracting for Complete Outdoor Living

Choosing an expert masonry contractor in Simsbury means partnering with a team that understands local geology and the requirements of both historic and modern residential estates. Our design-build model focuses on the "invisible" infrastructure—the drainage patterns, sub-base density, and structural footings that guarantee long-term performance. We manage every phase of construction with site stewardship, ensuring that high-end finishes and structural connections are handled with precision. This technical approach adds significant structural reliability and permanent market value to your property.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Outdoor LED Lighting Systems & Pathway Illumination

Low-voltage landscape lighting adds an essential layer of safety and nighttime sophistication to Simsbury homes. We utilize high-performance LED fixtures to highlight architectural features, specimen trees, and stone paths. Our technical approach focuses on "layering" light—using path lights for secure navigation and uplights for dramatic texture. By integrating smart controllers and weather-proof connections, we provide a durable, energy-efficient system that extends the usability of your outdoor space and enhances your property's security long after the sun goes down.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Sunken Paver Releveling & Retaining Wall Repair

Shifting soil and intense winters in Simsbury can eventually compromise the joints and alignment of your masonry. Our repair services focus on identifying the root cause of failure—typically related to an unstable sub-base or improper drainage. We surgically reset loose stones, relevel pavers, and perform precision tuckpointing with matching mortar to restore structural integrity. This professional restoration prevents minor issues from turning into a total replacement, ensuring your original investment remains safe and visually sound.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Gravel Driveway Installation & Sub-Base Preparation

A gravel driveway in Simsbury offers a rustic, permeable entrance that handles local snow and rain with ease. The secret to stability is the foundation: we utilize heavy-duty geotextile fabric to prevent soil migration and install multiple lifts of compacted aggregate to ensure a firm, level surface. We finish the driveway with high-quality decorative stone, providing a sophisticated and durable drive that prevents ruts and washouts. This technical construction provides a low-maintenance, classic aesthetic that complements the local landscape and handles vehicular weight with total reliability.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Front Walkway Makeovers & Property Entry Transformations

A front yard makeover in Simsbury is a comprehensive renovation designed to maximize curb appeal while building in long-term resilience. We integrate masonry, stone walls, and layered plantings to transform your yard into a sophisticated entrance that complements your home's exterior, whether it is a modern build or a historic residence. Our design-build team focuses on harmony and site flow, ensuring every element is placed for optimal visual impact. This architectural approach not only improves your daily experience but adds significant market value to your property.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Masonry Outdoor Fireplaces & Fire Pit Construction

Adding a masonry fire feature is the ultimate way to extend the outdoor living season on your Simsbury property. We specify ASTM C27 firebrick and refractory mortar for all internal chambers to ensure safety and prevent thermal cracking. The external structure is built over a reinforced concrete foundation, engineered to handle the intense weight and heat generated. Whether you prefer a rustic fieldstone fireplace or a sleek contemporary fire table, our focus on airflow and structural mass ensures a high-performance feature that enhances the ambiance of your estate.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Property Fence Builds & Entrance Gate Installations

Custom fencing in Simsbury provides security and a refined border for your property. We utilize heavy-duty posts set in concrete foundations or architectural metal systems designed to withstand the local climate. Our gates are engineered with structural bracing to prevent sagging and utilize high-end hardware for smooth, reliable operation. Whether you need privacy screening or a decorative estate fence, our focus on vertical alignment and structural foundations ensures a beautiful, long-lasting boundary for your home.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Property Earthmoving, Lot Clearing & Soil Grading

Professional excavation and grading in Simsbury are the foundations of site stability and proper water management. We utilize precision machinery to clear sites and establish the "positive pitch" required to shed water away from structural foundations. Whether preparing for a new masonry project or correcting a lawn’s slope, we focus on mechanical compaction and soil stabilization. This technical site preparation ensures that every subsequent phase of your project—from patios to plantings—is built on a level and reliable base that can withstand the local Connecticut elements.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Property Drainage Correction & Footing Runoff Piping

Effective drainage is the most critical infrastructure for any Simsbury property, protecting your foundation and hardscapes from water damage. We utilize NDS high-capacity catch basins, solid-wall piping, and professional grading to manage heavy runoff common in the valley and along the ridge. Our process begins with a technical pitch analysis to ensure water is daylighted safely away from the home. By addressing surface and sub-surface moisture with engineered solutions, we prevent foundation erosion and lawn saturation, ensuring a dry and stable property for your estate.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Eco-Friendly Landscape Layouts & Drought-Tolerant Plantings

Sustainable landscaping in Simsbury focuses on creating low-impact environments that support local biodiversity and protect the Farmington River watershed. We utilize native plant species naturally adapted to the region, reducing the need for chemical inputs and supplemental irrigation. Our designs often integrate permeable masonry and rain gardens to manage stormwater runoff on-site, allowing it to recharge the groundwater. This ecological approach results in a resilient, high-performance landscape that requires less maintenance while protecting the natural beauty and character of Simsbury.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Dry-Stack Stone Walls & Mortared Boundary Walls

Natural stone walls are iconic to the Simsbury landscape, providing essential site stabilization and a timeless aesthetic for properties of all styles. We specialize in building walls with native Connecticut fieldstone, employing traditional dry-stack or reinforced mortar-set techniques tailored to your property’s specific grade. To prevent bowing due to lateral pressure, we integrate 3/4-inch clean stone backfill and non-woven geotextile fabrics for internal drainage. By setting the foundation below the 42-inch frost line, we ensure your wall remains a permanent, plumb feature of your estate.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Thin Stone Veneer Siding & Exterior Masonry Facades

Stone veneer provides a timeless, high-end finish for Simsbury homes, whether for a traditional build or a modern architectural statement. We install a comprehensive drainage mat and weather-resistant barrier behind every stone installation to ensure proper airflow and water exit. Whether using thin-cut natural stone or modern architectural veneers, our masonry team focuses on clean, tight joints and professional bonding. This technical precision adds an essential layer of protection and character to your home's exterior.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Granite & Bluestone Steps & Outdoor Tiered Stairways

Masonry steps in Simsbury require total precision to handle daily use and winter ice on varying elevations. We construct our stairs over reinforced concrete cores or deep aggregate foundations to handle the weight and provide permanent stability against frost-heave. By utilizing non-slip materials like Thermal Bluestone or textured granite, we create a secure transition between your property’s levels. Each tread is set with a slight pitch to ensure water runoff, which prevents ice buildup and protects the mortar joints.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Retaining Wall Construction & Structural Grade Control

Engineering a durable retaining wall in Simsbury’s terrain requires a specialized focus on managing hydrostatic pressure. Our walls integrate 3/4-inch clean stone backfill and non-woven geotextile fabrics to ensure water drains freely, preventing the lateral pressure that causes standard builds to fail. Whether using natural fieldstone or modern structural blocks, we set every footing on a mechanically compacted base below the 42-inch frost line. This internal engineering is vital for providing permanent site stabilization.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Bluestone Pool Decks & Inground Pool Coping Stones

A pool patio in Simsbury must be engineered for salt resistance, safety, and proper water management. We utilize high-performance pavers or natural stone with high Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) ratings to ensure the surface remains cool underfoot. To manage runoff, we integrate deck drains or pitch the patio away from the pool shell. Every sub-base is mechanically compacted and reinforced to prevent settling near the pool, creating a durable, non-slip environment that thrives in the poolside environment and stands up to the intense local climate.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Pondless Waterfalls & Recirculating Stream Construction

Adding a custom water feature is a tranquil way to enhance a Simsbury landscape, echoing the natural beauty of the Farmington River valley. Our installations utilize high-density EPDM liners and professional-grade filtration systems to ensure long-term clarity and biological health. We carefully place natural stone to create cascading effects that provide a sophisticated focal point for your yard. This recirculating sanctuary is engineered for minimal maintenance, offering a peaceful environment that adds significant value.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Property Landscape Plantings & Garden Bed Installations

A thriving landscape is built on the principle of "right plant, right place," a philosophy that goes far beyond simple aesthetics. Our planting process begins with a thorough analysis of your property's microclimates—identifying areas of full sun, deep shade, wet soil, or wind exposure. We then select plant species whose native requirements match those conditions perfectly. Before planting, we amend the soil with high-quality compost to improve structure and fertility. This scientific approach to plant selection and soil preparation minimizes future maintenance and water needs, ensuring your landscape doesn't just survive, but thrives.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Layered Shrubbery Layouts & Foundation Plantings

High-end plantings in Simsbury require a technical understanding of the local micro-climate and soil health. We conduct a site-specific sun and exposure analysis before placing any specimen trees or layered garden shrubs. Our team prioritizes proper root-zone depth and soil organic matter to promote deep establishment and resilience against local weather extremes. By sourcing hardy native and ornamental species, we create a lush, resilient landscape that provides year-round visual interest and thrives with minimal intervention in your Simsbury garden, whether on a wooded lot or an open estate.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Timber Frame Pavilions & Hardtop Patio Coverings

Adding a pavilion or roof structure to your Simsbury patio creates a year-round outdoor sanctuary. We engineer our coverings to handle the heavy snow loads typical of the area, utilizing structural timber framing or G60 galvanized steel. The roofing is designed as a standalone focal point or integrated into your home's architecture with high-performance materials. By including integrated lighting and fans, we create a climate-controlled outdoor living room that protects your family from the sun and rain while enhancing your property’s ROI.

Learn MoreGet in Touch

Interlocking Paver Driveway Construction & Sub-Base Prep

A paver driveway in Simsbury is a heavy-duty structural system designed for vehicular loads and the rigors of frequent snow plowing. We utilize a multi-layer aggregate base, compacted in 2-inch lifts to ensure a dense, settle-free foundation. To manage the specific load requirements of the site, we often integrate biaxial geogrid for additional structural reinforcement. The joints are finished with stabilized polymeric sand, resulting in a flexible, durable entrance that resists oil stains and UV damage while handling local freeze-thaw cycles.

Learn MoreGet in Touch
PORCELAINPATIOCT.jpg

Learn About Services We Provide in Town

Custom Walkway Installation

Design/Design and Build

Decks

Concrete

Commercial Snow Removal

Commercial Landscape Maintenance

Columns/Gates

Brickwork

3 Season Spaces

Patio Installation

Why Choose Us?

There are many construction, outdoor living, masonry, drainage, and design companies to choose from- here is what makes us different.​

Our Single-Feature Specialities

Custom Low-Voltage Landscape Lighting

Custom Outdoor Fireplaces & Bespoke Fire Features

Custom Waterfalls & Premium Water Features

Solid Stone Veneer & Custom Masonry Work

Custom Stone Patios & Premium Walkways

Bespoke Outdoor Kitchens & Custom Culinary Stations

Heavy-Duty Concrete Contracting & Placement

Custom Hardwood & Premium Composite Decks

High-End Driveways & Heavy-Duty Estate Entrances

Heavy-Duty Retaining Walls & Terraced Masonry

Luxury 3-Season Rooms & Enclosed Living Pavilions

Site Drainage Systems & Subsurface Water Management

Double-Sided Stone Walls, Patio Sitting Walls & Custom Stone Columns

Property Fencing & Privacy Tree Installations

  1. Our Approach is Thorough and Integrated- Whether we are executing a complex residential design-build, a technical drainage installation, or a commercial maintenance plan, our approach is thorough and integrated. We don’t just address the surface; we assess, plan, and execute within a single workflow to ensure every solution is efficient and permanent.

  2. A Legacy of Expertise- Built on a 25-year family foundation, our team features experts with over 50 years of field experience. We are a robust crew of family, long-time employees, and vetted partners. This deep-rooted technical knowledge allows us to handle high-stakes projects and specialized repairs with precision.

  3. The "Client for Life" Partnership- We reject transactional business models in favor of long-term stewardship. While we provide industry-leading warranties, our real commitment is to stand by our work for the life of our business. We remain available for ongoing maintenance and future needs to ensure your property remains an asset, not a burden.

  4. Total Operational Transparency- An informed client is a confident one. We provide all data, considerations, and options upfront so you retain full control over your investment. We maintain this commitment through consistent daily updates, ensuring you are never left guessing about the status or progress of your project.

  5. Professional Ownership & Quality- We take full responsibility for project outcomes, ensuring every detail meets the highest standards of feasibility and quality. You will never feel the burden of "managing the contractor." We lead the process, allowing you to focus on your goals while we handle the complexities of management and execution.

ct-outdoor-living-space-builder.png

Simsbury Landscape Construction & Outdoor Living Process

This framework is built specifically for design-build, structural masonry, and full-scale landscape installations. It does not apply to our minor repair work or recurring property maintenance services. We use this process to ensure that large-scale property improvements—from custom pool environments to hillside structural builds—are executed with the precision required for Simsbury’s specific terrain. We operate as your professional construction contractor to turn a complex site plan or a new concept into a permanent property asset.

1.
Discovery & Consultation

In Simsbury, we don't start by looking at the surface; we look at what’s underneath. We diagnose how the sandy loams of the Farmington River valley or the hard traprock ledge of the Talcott Mountain ridge will impact the footings and drainage of your build. Whether you are reclaiming a sloped yard for a multi-tier patio or preparing for a major outdoor living expansion, we identify the physical constraints of the land first. This gives you a technical roadmap and an accurate price based on the actual digging conditions of your lot before we mobilize equipment.

2.
Planning & Value Engineering

Longevity in Simsbury depends on a plan that handles high groundwater in the valley and aggressive freeze-thaw cycles on the hills. We finalize the scope and fixed pricing while selecting materials—like native Connecticut fieldstone or high-performance pavers—that fit the town’s historic aesthetic but have the density to last. Our focus is on the foundation: we over-build the drainage layers and base compaction so your stone work and structures remain stable and level for decades, not just a few seasons.

3.
Professional Execution

We transition to the field with a focus on high-speed execution and clean site logistics. Our crews are trained to handle the specific hurdles of Simsbury properties, from protecting established lawns in the historic village to managing equipment access on narrow, wooded hillside lots. Whether we are installing a custom stone kitchen or a structural retaining wall, we maintain a professional workspace. We keep a direct line of communication open so you know the daily status of the build and experience minimal disruption to your routine.

4.
Walk-Through & Stewardship

After the build is finished, every construction project concludes with a thorough walk-through to verify the work meets our structural standards. In Simsbury, we pay particular attention to how the new structures integrate with the existing land and ensure all water management systems are diverting runoff exactly as intended. You will receive specific maintenance guidelines for your new masonry and landscape assets to ensure they continue to perform and add value to your property for the long term.

Testimonials

IMG_7533.jpg
Screenshot 2025-05-01 at 11.26.49.png
Screenshot 2025-05-01 at 11.26.17.png
Screenshot 2025-05-01 at 11.22.30.png

Let's Talk About Your Project!

Have questions about a project? Unsure about potential pricing? Ready to get started? Use this form to get in touch. We are excited to speak with you and assist with your project. We will reach out within 1 business day.

What kind of project did you have in mind?

This can be as general as "I need a stone wall rebuilt", "Interested in design pricing and the process", or as detailed as a specific scope of work with measurements. Any information you can share regarding your project, property, and your needs, enables us to provide better insight and better information, faster.

Neighbors We Serve

Hartford County
Excellence-Masonry-and-Contracting-Local-Service-Area-CT

Farmington

Burlington

Simsbury

Canton

Avon

Hartford County

bottom of page