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EXCELLENCE MASONRY & CONTRACTING

EXCELLENCE MASONRY & CONTRACTING

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Your Trusted Masonry & Landscape Design Experts in Goshen

As a town that works hard to preserve its rural character, Goshen is the perfect setting for natural, timeless landscape and masonry work. Excellence Masonry and Contracting is proud to serve the Goshen community, designing and building outdoor spaces that feel like a natural part of the landscape. From classic fieldstone walls to custom patios and gardens, we are sensitive to the rights of property owners while respecting the town's unique aesthetic.

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

Learn More About Services We Provide in Goshen

Custom Walkway Installation

Design/Design and Build

Decks

Concrete

Commercial Snow Removal

Commercial Landscape Maintenance

Columns/Gates

Brickwork

3 Season Spaces

Patio Installation

Flagstone Walkway Construction & Property Path Layouts

Designing a walkway for a Goshen estate requires a focus on winter safety and long-term levelness. Because of the region's intense frost-heave cycles, we utilize a deep sub-base of compacted aggregate, replacing frost-susceptible soil to prevent the stones from shifting. We prioritize non-slip materials like Thermal Bluestone and textured Granite to ensure a secure path during the icy months. This technical preparation results in a sophisticated entrance that handles the "Icebox" climate while maintaining its original alignment for decades.

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Landscape Design-Build & Complete Property Transformations

Our design-build philosophy in Goshen eliminates the gap between vision and execution, providing a single point of responsibility for your most complex property renovations. We manage every phase, from the initial architectural sketches to the final stone set and planting. This model allows us to control quality, timelines, and budgets with total precision. By integrating expert masonry and site engineering with professional planning, we deliver high-end, custom environments that are built for longevity and designed to exceed the aesthetic standards of the Goshen community.

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Premium Wood & Composite Decking System Installations

A high-performance deck in Goshen must be engineered for the state's highest snow loads. We ensure every structural post is set on concrete footings extending below the 42-inch frost line to prevent seasonal shifting. Our technical standards include securing ledger boards with structural lags and G60 metal flashing to protect your home’s envelope from moisture and rot. By integrating joist tape and stainless fasteners into the frame, we maximize the life of the structure, providing a level, safe outdoor living space that complements your home’s architecture.

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Structural Concrete & Finished Concrete Flatwork Installation

Professional concrete work in Goshen requires a specialized approach to mix design and thermal protection. We utilize high-strength, air-entrained concrete mixes specifically engineered to survive Litchfield County’s 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 penetration. To manage expansion and prevent cracking, we place control joints at precise intervals, ensuring a durable and clean surface for your home or business.

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Winter Snow Removal & Commercial Parking Lot Plowing

Commercial snow removal in Goshen requires a zero-tolerance approach to ensure site safety and business continuity in a town that sees constant winter weather. 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.

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Property Maintenance & Commercial Lawn Care Programs

Commercial properties in Goshen require a consistent maintenance program that accounts for the region's short growing season and harsh winters. 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 "Icebox" environment. With a focus on reliability and clear communication, we provide the meticulous care required to maintain the professional image of your Goshen business or facility year-round.

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Decorative Stone Pillars & Security Gate Builds

Masonry columns provide a grand, structural anchor for gates and fencing on Goshen 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.

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Traditional Brickwork & Decorative Masonry Accents

Traditional brickwork in Goshen offers a classic look that demands precision moisture control and high-quality material selection. 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 structural walls, we provide the craftsmanship required to ensure your brickwork remains structurally sound and visually striking despite the elements.

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Three-Season Room Construction & Porch Enclosures

A 3-season space in Goshen 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.

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Brick & Stone Patio Construction & Outdoor Living Patios

A professional patio installation in Goshen transforms a backyard into a high-performance outdoor living room. We utilize premium materials like Thermal Bluestone, Granite, and Outdoor Porcelain to create a surface that is as durable as it is beautiful. The structural integrity of the patio depends on a deep sub-base of processed aggregate, compacted in 2-inch lifts to prevent future settling. We finish every installation with high-performance polymeric sand in the joints, ensuring a flexible, weed-free surface that stands up to the intense Connecticut freeze-thaw cycles.

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Masonry Outdoor Kitchen Frameworks & Stone Islands

An outdoor kitchen in Goshen is a complex design-build project that integrates masonry, carpentry, and utility engineering. 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 that is as durable as it is beautiful.

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Weatherproof TV Mounting & Outdoor Speaker Setups

Bringing high-end entertainment into the Goshen landscape requires weather-proof technology engineered for temperature extremes. 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 against the elements. By strategic placement and network integration, we create an immersive media experience that allows you to enjoy media with total clarity without disturbing the peaceful atmosphere of your neighborhood.

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Masonry & Hardscape Contracting for Complete Outdoor Living

As a specialized masonry contractor in Goshen, our approach is defined by cold-weather engineering and site-specific stewardship. We prioritize the "invisible" 90% of a project—the drainage systems, sub-base density, and frost-line footings—that guarantee long-term performance in the Icebox of Connecticut. We manage every phase of construction with a focus on longevity, ensuring that high-end finishes like G60 flashing for house-connected features and precision aggregate lifts are handled with mastery. This technical focus adds significant structural reliability and permanent value to your Goshen property.

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Outdoor LED Lighting Systems & Pathway Illumination

Low-voltage landscape lighting adds an essential layer of safety and nighttime sophistication to Goshen homes, especially during long winter nights. 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 Goshen outdoor space and enhances security.

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Sunken Paver Releveling & Retaining Wall Repair

Shifting soil and the intense freeze-thaw cycles of Goshen can eventually cause masonry joints to crack or pavers to settle. Our repair services prioritize identifying the root cause of failure—often related to sub-base settling or water infiltration. We surgically reset loose stones, relevel pavers, and perform tuckpointing with matching mortar to restore the structural integrity of your property. This professional restoration prevents minor issues from becoming costly replacements, ensuring your original investment remains safe and aesthetically sound.

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Crushed Stone Driveways & Driveway Reconditioning

A gravel driveway in Goshen offers a rustic, permeable entrance that handles heavy snow and spring runoff 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 reliably.

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Main Entrance Landscaping & Complete Front Yard Restructuring

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

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Outdoor Masonry Fire Features & Brick Fireplace Builds

Adding a masonry fire feature is a primary way to extend the outdoor living season for your Goshen property. We specify ASTM C27 firebrick and refractory mortar for all internal chambers to 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 gas fire table, our technical focus on airflow and structural mass ensures a high-performance feature that enhances the ambiance of your estate.

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Perimeter Property Fencing & Walkway Gate Systems

Custom fencing in Goshen 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.

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Trenching, Grading & Construction Excavation Services

Professional excavation and grading in Goshen are the foundations of site stability and proper water management. We utilize precision machinery to clearing sites and establish the "positive pitch" required to shed water away from structural foundations—critical for preventing ice damage. 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 is built on a level and reliable base that can withstand the Litchfield County elements.

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Property Drainage Correction & Footing Runoff Piping

Effective drainage is the most critical infrastructure for any Goshen property, protecting your foundation from heavy snow melt and intense spring runoff. We utilize NDS high-capacity catch basins, solid-wall piping, and professional grading to manage water common in sloped or ledge-rich terrain. 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 Goshen estate.

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Eco-Friendly Landscape Layouts & Drought-Tolerant Plantings

Sustainable landscaping in Goshen focuses on creating low-impact environments that support local biodiversity and handle extreme weather. We utilize native plant species naturally adapted to Litchfield County, reducing the need for chemical inputs and supplemental irrigation. Our designs often integrate permeable masonry and rain gardens to manage heavy snow melt and 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 watershed of Goshen.

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Natural Stone Wall Construction & Fieldstone Masonry

Natural stone walls are a cornerstone of the Goshen landscape, and we build them to withstand the region's intense environmental pressures. Utilizing native Connecticut fieldstone, we employ traditional dry-stack or mortar-set methods depending on the property's requirements. To prevent the bowing often caused by heavy soil moisture and ice expansion, we integrate 3/4-inch clean stone for internal drainage and non-woven geotextile fabric. By setting our foundations deep below the 42-inch frost line, we ensure your wall remains a permanent, plumb feature of your estate that survives the harshest New England winters.

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Thin Stone Veneer Siding & Exterior Masonry Facades

Stone veneer provides a timeless finish for Goshen homes, but it requires expert moisture management to protect the underlying structure. 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 architectural veneers, our masonry team focuses on clean, tight joints and professional bonding. This technical precision adds an essential layer of protection and significant market value to your property, ensuring a beautiful exterior that lasts.

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Masonry Steps & Stone Staircase Construction

Masonry steps in Goshen require total precision to ensure safety during icy Litchfield County winters. 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 elevations. Each tread is set with a slight pitch to ensure water runoff, which prevents ice buildup and protects the mortar joints from the moisture damage common in the Goshen area.

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Retaining Wall Construction & Structural Grade Control

Engineering a retaining wall in Goshen’s hilly and often ledge-rich terrain demands a focus on hydrostatic pressure management. Our walls integrate 3/4-inch clean stone and non-woven geotextile fabrics to ensure water drains freely, preventing the lateral pressure that causes walls to lean or bow. Whether utilizing natural fieldstone or structural blocks, we set every foundation on a mechanically compacted base below the frost line. This internal engineering is vital for providing permanent site stabilization in a climate where soil movement is constant.

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Pool Patio Construction & Paver Surround Installation

A pool patio in Goshen 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 elements.

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Backyard Ecosystem Ponds & Natural Waterfalls

Adding a water feature to a Goshen landscape requires specialized planning for winter survival and biological health. Our installations utilize high-density EPDM liners and professional-grade filtration systems that can handle the region's temperature extremes. We prioritize the technical placement of natural rock to create cascading effects that mimic local Connecticut hydrology. This recirculating system is designed for minimal maintenance, providing a tranquil sanctuary that serves as a sophisticated focal point while adding significant value to your property.

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Layered Shrubbery Layouts & Foundation Plantings

The high-elevation environment of Goshen demands a technical approach to plant selection. We perform a comprehensive sun analysis and soil pH check to ensure every specimen tree or garden shrub is placed where it can establish a deep, resilient root system capable of surviving Zone 5 winter extremes. Our team optimizes the organic matter in each planting hole to promote nutrient retention and drought resistance. By sourcing hardy native and ornamental species acclimated to Litchfield County, we create a lush, layered landscape that provides year-round interest and thrives with minimal intervention.

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Layered Shrubbery Layouts & Foundation Plantings

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.

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Permanent Pergola Construction & Covered Outdoor Roofs

Adding a pavilion or roof structure to your Goshen patio creates a year-round outdoor sanctuary. We engineer our coverings to handle the heavy snow loads typical of Litchfield County, 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.

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Paver Driveway Installations & Base Compaction Services

A paver driveway in Goshen 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 your property, we often integrate biaxial geogrid for additional structural reinforcement. The joints are finished with stabilized polymeric sand, resulting in a flexible, durable, and sophisticated entrance that resists oil stains and UV damage while handling the local freeze-thaw cycles with ease.

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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.

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Our Custom Outdoor Space and Structural Masonry Process in Goshen

Goshen’s landscape—defined by the high elevations of the Litchfield Hills, expansive rural acreages, and the sophisticated waterfront properties of Woodridge Lake—demands a builder who understands the intensity of New England’s climate. In an area known for its rocky glacial till and some of the state's most aggressive freeze-thaw cycles, standard installations are insufficient. Whether you are looking to revitalize a lakeside deck, install a custom stone feature, or develop an expansive multi-tier outdoor environment, we provide the heavy-duty execution required for longevity. This process is specifically designed for our design-build, installation, and construction projects—ranging from focused property upgrades to complete site transformations—rather than our minor repair or recurring maintenance services. We operate as a professional partner to ensure your investment becomes a permanent, high-performing asset to your Goshen estate.

1.
Discovery & Consultation

Every successful build in Goshen begins with a technical analysis of the land. We prioritize diagnosing how your property’s specific topography, wind exposure, and soil composition will interact with your vision. During this phase, we identify your primary goals—whether you are reclaiming a rugged grade for a functional patio or initiating a full-scale masonry expansion. This stage provides the technical clarity and preliminary pricing needed to ensure your project, regardless of scale, is grounded in site reality before any construction begins.

2.
Planning & Value Engineering

Precision in the field is the result of rigorous, project-specific planning. We establish a definitive scope of work, fixed pricing, and a logistical roadmap tailored to the unique requirements of a Goshen installation. We select materials—ranging from native Connecticut fieldstone to premium architectural pavers—that reflect the town’s rural-sophisticated character while meeting elite durability standards. Our focus is on over-building the invisible infrastructure, ensuring that drainage systems and foundations are built to withstand the unique thermal stresses of the Goshen uplands.

3.
Professional Execution

We transition to the field with an emphasis on professional organization and mechanical precision. Our crews are trained to manage the logistical hurdles of Goshen sites, from navigating expansive lakeside properties to protecting the integrity of established pastoral landscapes during the build. Whether we are installing a custom outdoor kitchen or managing a multi-phase structural masonry project, we maintain a clean, high-speed, and professional work environment. Consistent communication is our priority, ensuring the process causes minimal disruption to your daily routine or property access.

4.
Walk-Through & Stewardship

Every project concludes with a comprehensive final walk-through to confirm the results align perfectly with our standards for both function and finish. In Goshen, we pay particular attention to site transitions and water management, verifying that your new outdoor assets are fully integrated with the terrain and built for long-term stability. You will receive specific stewardship guidelines to help protect the value of your investment, ensuring your property remains a point of pride and performance for decades.

Testimonials

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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

Litchfield County
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Canaan / North Canaan

Salisbury

Harwinton

Thomaston

Litchfield

Watertown

Sharon

Kent

Washington

Bridgewater

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