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EXCELLENCE MASONRY & CONTRACTING

EXCELLENCE MASONRY & CONTRACTING

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Washington's Choice for Custom Outdoor Living & Design

With its picturesque town green and beautifully preserved architecture, Washington is a town that epitomizes Litchfield County elegance. Excellence Masonry and Contracting offers the discerning homeowners of Washington a full range of high-end design and construction services. We specialize in creating custom outdoor living spaces, from elegant stone masonry to thoughtful landscape design, that perfectly complement the distinguished character of your home.

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

Learn More About Services We Provide in Washington

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

A custom walkway is an essential architectural transition for your Washington estate, whether framing a historic colonial or a contemporary woodland retreat. We prioritize premium materials like Thermal Bluestone and weathered Granite, but the durability lies in our sub-surface engineering. By excavating frost-prone soil and installing a deep foundation of mechanically compacted aggregate, we ensure the masonry remains perfectly level. This technical preparation allows your entrance to withstand intense Connecticut winters without the stones heaving or shifting.

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Outdoor Living Design & Structural Hardscape Construction

Our design-build philosophy in Washington 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 Washington community.

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Outdoor Deck Design-Build & Structural Wood Framing

A high-performance deck in Washington must be engineered to handle heavy snow loads and provide a level, safe retreat for outdoor entertaining. 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 area that mirrors the quality of your home’s interior.

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Structural Concrete & Finished Concrete Flatwork Installation

Professional concrete work in Washington 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 Washington home or business facility.

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Winter Snow Removal & Commercial Parking Lot Plowing

Commercial snow removal in Washington 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.

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Corporate Landscape Care & Seasonal Grounds Maintenance

Commercial properties in Washington 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 Litchfield County climate. With a focus on reliability and clear communication, we provide the meticulous care required to maintain the professional image of your Washington business or facility.

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Masonry Gate Pillars & Property Entrance Installation

Masonry columns provide a grand, structural anchor for gates and fencing on Washington 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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Brick Masonry Construction & Structural Brick Installation

Traditional brickwork in Washington offers a classic look that requires 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 garden walls, we provide the craftsmanship required to ensure your brick masonry remains structurally sound and visually stunning despite the intense local elements and moisture.

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Screened-In Patio Builds & Covered Outdoor Spaces

A 3-season space in Washington 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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Interlocking Paver Patios & Bluestone Terrace Installations

Constructing a high-performance patio in Washington requires a technical approach to handle the town’s varied soil profiles and historical aesthetic. We prioritize a deep excavation phase to replace frost-prone native material with a heavy-duty aggregate base, compacted in 2-inch lifts for maximum density. By using premium materials such as Thermal Bluestone or modern Outdoor Porcelain, we create a surface that is both luxurious and resilient. The inclusion of high-performance polymeric sand in the joints ensures a stable, weed-free finish that accommodates the natural expansion and contraction of the Litchfield County climate.

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Outdoor Culinary Spaces & Kitchen Appliance Installations

An outdoor kitchen in Washington 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 that is as durable as it is beautiful for your outdoor entertainment.

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Weatherproof TV Mounting & Outdoor Speaker Setups

Bringing high-end entertainment into the Washington 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 Washington neighborhood.

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Masonry & Hardscape Contracting for Complete Outdoor Living

Choosing an expert masonry contractor in Washington means partnering with a team that understands the intersection of rugged site engineering and refined aesthetics. Our design-build model focuses on the "invisible" 90% of a project—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 Washington property.

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Low-Voltage Landscape Lighting & Accent Illumination

Low-voltage landscape lighting adds an essential layer of safety and nighttime sophistication to Washington 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.

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Stone Wall Restoration & Patio Re-Pointing Work

Shifting soil and intense winters in Washington 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 despite the local climate challenges.

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Gravel Driveway Installation & Sub-Base Preparation

A gravel driveway in Washington 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 on sloped terrain. This technical construction provides a low-maintenance, classic aesthetic that complements the local landscape and handles vehicular weight with total reliability.

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Front Walkway Makeovers & Property Entry Transformations

A front yard makeover in Washington 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 estate. 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 through expert design.

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Masonry Outdoor Fireplaces & Fire Pit Construction

Adding a masonry fire feature is the ultimate way to extend the outdoor living season on your Washington 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.

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Wood & Vinyl Fence Installation & Driveway Gates

Custom fencing in Washington 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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Property Earthmoving, Lot Clearing & Soil Grading

Professional excavation and grading in Washington 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.

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Subsurface Yard Drainage & Property Stormwater Management

Effective drainage is the most critical infrastructure for any Washington property, protecting your foundation and hardscapes from water damage on sloped or ledge-rich terrain. We utilize NDS high-capacity catch basins, solid-wall piping, and professional grading to manage heavy runoff common in the region. 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.

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Conservation-Minded Gardens & Native Species Setups

Sustainable landscaping in Washington focuses on creating low-impact environments that support local biodiversity and protect the delicate watershed of Lake Waramaug. We utilize native plant species naturally adapted to Fairfield and Litchfield County, 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 of Washington.

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Traditional New England Fieldstone Wall Building

Natural stone walls are a defining feature of the Washington landscape, essential for site stabilization on sloped estates. We specialize in building walls with native Connecticut fieldstone, employing traditional dry-stack or reinforced mortar-set techniques. To prevent bowing caused by hydrostatic pressure, we integrate 3/4-inch clean stone for internal drainage and non-woven geotextile fabric. By setting our foundations below the 42-inch frost line, we ensure your wall remains a permanent, plumb feature that manages your property’s elevations with total reliability.

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Natural Stone Veneer Installation & Foundation Siding

Stone veneer provides a timeless, high-end finish for Washington homes, whether for a classic restoration 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, ensuring a beautiful exterior that lasts for decades in the Connecticut climate.

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Granite & Bluestone Steps & Outdoor Tiered Stairways

Masonry steps in Washington require total precision to handle daily use and winter ice on the region's varied 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 from the moisture damage common in the Washington area.

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Retaining Wall Construction & Structural Grade Control

Engineering a durable retaining wall in Washington’s varied terrain requires a specialized focus on managing hydrostatic pressure and soil stabilization. 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 for estates with challenging grades.

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Slip-Resistant Pool Surrounds & Hardscape Terraces

A pool patio in Washington 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.

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Pondless Waterfalls & Recirculating Stream Construction

Adding a custom water feature is a tranquil way to enhance a Washington landscape, echoing the natural beauty of the Shepaug 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 enhances your property's overall atmosphere and adds significant long-term value.

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Property Landscape Plantings & Garden Bed Installations

High-end plantings in Washington require a technical understanding of the local micro-climate and soil health, particularly for estates in the Shepaug Valley or near Lake Waramaug. 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 in the Litchfield County environment.

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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 Washington 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.

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Interlocking Paver Driveway Construction & Sub-Base Prep

A paver driveway in Washington 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 the local freeze-thaw cycles with total reliability for your estate.

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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 Masonry, Outdoor Living and Landscape Design Process in Washington

This framework is exclusively for our design and build, structural masonry, and high-end landscape installations. It is not for minor repair work, small projects or recurring maintenance. We do this to ensure that substantial property upgrades—from custom pool surrounds to multi-tier stone terraces—are built to suit your vision perfectly, and to handle Washington’s specific soil conditions and topography. We act as your professional construction contractor to execute your existing site plans or develop a new concept into a permanent, high-performing asset for your property.

1.
Discovery & Consultation

Building in Washington requires an immediate focus on the town’s significant elevation changes and high concentration of glacial stone. We don't guess at the site conditions; we diagnose how the steep grades—common in areas like Washington Depot or the ridges near Steep Rock—will impact the structural footings and water management of your build. Whether you are reclaiming a rugged hillside for a multi-tier stone terrace or preparing for a major pool environment, we identify the physical ledge and soil constraints first. This gives you a technical roadmap and a fixed price based on the actual digging conditions of your specific lot before we move any machinery.

2.
Planning & Value Engineering

Longevity in the Washington uplands depends on a plan that handles high-velocity runoff and aggressive frost-heave cycles. We finalize the scope and pricing while selecting materials—like native Connecticut fieldstone or high-density pavers—that fit the town’s refined, rural character without sacrificing strength. Our focus is on the invisible infrastructure: we over-build the drainage layers and base compaction to ensure that your masonry and structures remain stable and level for decades, preventing the shifting commonly seen in "standard" regional builds.

3.
Professional Execution

We transition to the field with a focus on high-speed execution and clean site logistics. Our crews are trained to manage the specific hurdles of Washington properties, from protecting established lawns on sprawling estates to navigating equipment access on narrow, wooded hillside drives. Whether we are installing a custom stone kitchen or a structural retaining wall, we maintain a professional and organized 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

We end with a thorough walk-through to verify the work meets our structural and finish standards. In Washington, we pay particular attention to how the new construction integrates with the existing land and ensure all water management systems are diverting runoff exactly as planned. You will receive specific stewardship 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

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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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