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EXCELLENCE MASONRY & CONTRACTING

EXCELLENCE MASONRY & CONTRACTING

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Your Trusted Masonry & Landscape Design Experts in Middlebury

Known for its beautiful Lake Quassapaug and charming town center, Middlebury is a quintessential New England town. Excellence Masonry and Contracting provides Middlebury homeowners with high-quality landscape and hardscape services designed to make the most of their properties. From poolside patios to elegant garden designs, we bring expertise and craftsmanship to every project.  

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

Learn More About Services We Provide in Middlebury

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

Whether framing a modern new-build or a classic estate, a custom walkway provides a safe and sophisticated transition through your Middlebury landscape. We select materials—from Thermal Bluestone to contemporary Outdoor Porcelain—that complement your home's unique style while offering a non-slip surface. The longevity of the path is guaranteed by a deep sub-base of compacted aggregate that replaces frost-prone soil. This technical preparation ensures the masonry remains perfectly level and flush, resisting the seasonal shifting common in the Middlebury area.

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Outdoor Living Design & Structural Hardscape Construction

Our design-build philosophy in Middlebury 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 Middlebury community.

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Composite Deck Building & Wood Deck Construction

A high-performance deck in Middlebury 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 42-inch frost line for permanent stability. We secure 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 durable outdoor living space that mirrors the quality of your home's interior.

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Poured Concrete Slabs, Foundations & Structural Work

Professional concrete work in Middlebury 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 Middlebury home or commercial facility.

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Commercial Snow Plowing & Property Ice Management

Commercial snow removal in Middlebury 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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Property Maintenance & Commercial Lawn Care Programs

Commercial properties in Middlebury 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 Middlebury business or facility.

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Decorative Stone Pillars & Security Gate Builds

Masonry columns provide a grand, structural anchor for gates and fencing on Middlebury 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 Middlebury 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 common in the area.

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Screened Porch Builds & 3-Season Room Additions

A 3-season space in Middlebury 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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Paver Patio Construction & Natural Stone Terraces

A professional patio installation in Middlebury serves as a high-performance extension of your home’s living space. We utilize premium surfaces like Thermal Bluestone or modern Outdoor Porcelain, but the technical success of the project lies beneath the surface. We excavate to remove frost-prone soil, replacing it 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 outdoor entertaining.

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Built-In Outdoor Kitchens & Built-In Grilling Stations

An outdoor kitchen in Middlebury 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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Outdoor Audio-Video Installation & Entertainment Systems

Bringing high-end entertainment into the Middlebury 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 Middlebury neighborhood.

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Comprehensive Masonry Contracting & Full Hardscape Projects

Choosing an expert masonry contractor in Middlebury means partnering with a team that understands local geology and the specific needs of high-end 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 Middlebury 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 Middlebury 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 Middlebury outdoor space and enhances your property's security long after the sun goes down.

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Hardscape Repair & Masonry Restoration Services

Shifting soil and intense winters in Middlebury 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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Aggregate Driveway Builds & Base Compaction Services

A gravel driveway in Middlebury 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.

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Front Yard Renovations & Curb Appeal Improvements

A front yard makeover in Middlebury 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 classic 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 Middlebury 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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Perimeter Property Fencing & Walkway Gate Systems

Custom fencing in Middlebury 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 Litchfield County 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 Middlebury 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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Yard Drainage Solutions & French Drain Installation

Effective drainage is the most critical infrastructure for any Middlebury 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. 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 Middlebury estate.

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Low-Maintenance Sustainable Landscaping & Native Plant Design

Sustainable landscaping in Middlebury focuses on creating low-impact environments that support local biodiversity and protect the local watershed. 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 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 the Middlebury community.

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Traditional New England Fieldstone Wall Building

Natural stone walls are a hallmark of Middlebury estates, providing both site stabilization and a refined aesthetic. We specialize in building walls with native Connecticut fieldstone, employing traditional dry-stack or reinforced mortar-set techniques based on your property’s requirements. 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 landscape that thrives through generations of New England winters.

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Thin Stone Veneer Siding & Exterior Masonry Facades

Stone veneer provides a timeless, high-end finish for Middlebury homes, whether you are aiming for a classic New England look 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.

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Granite & Bluestone Steps & Outdoor Tiered Stairways

Masonry steps in Middlebury require total precision to ensure safety during icy winters 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 Middlebury.

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Structural Retaining Walls & Soil Slope Stabilization

For Middlebury properties with varying elevations, an engineered retaining wall provides essential site stabilization and a refined architectural frame. We build walls designed to manage hydrostatic pressure by integrating 3/4-inch clean stone backfill and non-woven geotextile fabrics. Whether you prefer the rustic look of natural fieldstone or the clean lines of modern structural blocks, we set every footing on a mechanically compacted base below the frost line. This internal engineering ensures the wall remains plumb and stable against intense lateral soil pressure.

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Pool Patio Construction & Paver Surround Installation

A pool patio in Middlebury 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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Stone Water Features & Koi Pond Installations

A custom water feature is a tranquil addition that mirrors the natural beauty of the Middlebury landscape. Our installations utilize high-density EPDM liners and professional-grade filtration systems to ensure water clarity and long-term biological health. We carefully place natural stone to create cascading effects that mimic local Connecticut streams, resulting in a recirculating sanctuary that requires minimal maintenance. This balance of biology and masonry provides a sophisticated focal point that enhances the peaceful atmosphere of your estate and adds significant property value.

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Garden Plantings & Specimen Tree Installation

High-end plantings in Middlebury 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 Middlebury garden.

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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.

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Timber Frame Pavilions & Hardtop Patio Coverings

Adding a pavilion or roof structure to your Middlebury 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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Paver Driveway Installations & Base Compaction Services

A paver driveway in Middlebury 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 Build Strategy for Middlebury Properties and Outdoor Living Projects

Middlebury’s terrain—ranging from the rocky ridges near Breakneck Hill to the specialized shoreline conditions of Lake Quassapaug—requires a contractor who understands the physical demands of high-elevation sites and water-proximate soil. We specialize in the heavy-duty construction of outdoor spaces, ensuring that every stone feature and structure is built to stay put in Middlebury's dense, often challenging ground. This process is specifically designed for our design-build, installation, and construction projects—such as new pool environments, masonry walls, and complete property overhauls—rather than our minor repairs or recurring maintenance services. We act as your primary construction partner to execute complex builds, whether we are developing a concept from scratch or working off your existing site plans.

1.
Discovery & Consultation

We don't start with a "guess"; we start with a diagnosis of the dirt. In Middlebury, we look at how your land handles runoff and where the subsurface rock will impact the footings of a new build. Whether you are looking to reclaim a steep backyard for a new patio or planning a multi-phase outdoor kitchen and living area, our first priority is identifying the structural feasibility. This stage gives you a technical roadmap and a real-world price, so you know exactly what it takes to build on your specific lot before any machinery arrives.

2.
Planning & Value Engineering

A durable build depends on a plan that accounts for Middlebury’s aggressive freeze-thaw cycles. During this phase, we lock in the specific scope, fixed pricing, and the timeline for the project. We select materials—from heavy Connecticut fieldstone to high-performance pavers—that match the refined, rural aesthetic of Middlebury while providing maximum longevity. We focus heavily on the base and the drainage, over-building the invisible parts of the project so that your investment remains stable for decades.

3.
Professional Execution

We move from the plan into the field with a focus on high-speed execution and professional site management. Our crews are trained to navigate the logistics of Middlebury estates, from protecting established driveways and lawns to ensuring efficient equipment access. Whether we are digging out a new pool area or laying a custom masonry walkway, we keep a clean and organized workspace. We maintain a direct line of communication with you throughout the build to ensure the process is efficient and causes minimal stress to your daily routine.

4.
Walk-Through & Stewardship

Every construction project ends with a detailed final walk-through to ensure the work meets our structural and visual standards. We verify that all site transitions are smooth and that the drainage systems are diverting water exactly as planned. You will receive clear instructions on how to care for your new masonry and landscape assets, ensuring that your Middlebury property remains a high-performing part of your home long after we leave the site.

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

New Haven County
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Madison

Guilford

Branford

Orange

Milford

Oxford

Middlebury

Southbury

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