Most masonry contractors charge between $40 and $100 per hour for labour, or $10 to $40 per square foot, depending on the project type and materials used. If you’re planning a brick wall, stone patio, or chimney repair, understanding these costs upfront helps you budget smartly and avoid surprises.

Homeowners and business owners often search for masonry pricing to understand what they’re getting into before hiring a contractor. Nobody likes sticker shock. Masonry work isn’t cheap, but when done right, it can last decades.

To understand what you’re paying for, it helps to know what masonry contractors do. They don’t just stack bricks. They assess structural needs, prepare surfaces, mix mortar, and ensure everything is level, safe, and in compliance with code. That expertise is what you’re investing in.

Whether you’re comparing quotes or just starting your research, this guide breaks down every part of masonry contractor pricing so you can make informed decisions. Let’s dig in.

Average Masonry Contractor Cost (Quick Overview)

The average cost for a masonry contractor on residential projects ranges from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the scope and materials. Smaller jobs, such as brick patching or mortar repointing, typically range from $500 to $2,000, while larger projects, such as retaining walls, chimneys, or stone veneer installation, can cost $5,000 to $20,000 or more. In most cases, residential masonry costs less than commercial work, and masonry work is generally considered affordable when it stays under $15 per square foot, with premium finishes starting around $ 30 per square foot.

Cost overview:

• Small masonry repairs: $500–$2,000
• Average residential projects: $2,000–$10,000
• Large or custom masonry work: $5,000–$20,000+
• Budget-friendly masonry: Under $15 per sq ft
• Premium masonry: $30+ per sq ft
• Residential masonry cost is lower than that of commercial projects
• Masonry work costing under $15 per sq ft is budget-friendly
• Premium finishes start at $30+ per sq ft
  

   

  

How Masonry Contractors Price Their Work

Masonry contractors use different pricing methods depending on the job. Some charge by the hour. Others price by the square foot. And some give you a flat project rate after walking the site. Here’s how each one works.

Masonry Contra ctor Hourly Rate

The masonry contractor’s hourly rate typically ranges from $40 to $100. Entry-level masons or helpers might charge closer to $40. Experienced, licensed contractors in high-cost areas can easily hit $80 to $100 per hour.

Masonry cost per hour includes the contractor’s time on site laying brick, mixing mortar, and cutting. Masonry labour costs typically cover the crew’s time for building, repairs, stone work, and cleanup, but they don’t always include materials. It’s important to confirm upfront what’s covered. 

Quick labour cost points:

• Labour cost = total crew time on the project
• Labour rates = hourly or daily worker charges
• Two workers at $60/hour for 8 hours = $960 labor cost
• Materials may be billed separately
• Hourly pricing suits uncertain repair work

Masonry Cost Per Square Foot

Many contractors prefer to price by the square foot because it’s easier to estimate and compare. Masonry costs per square foot typically range from $10 to $40, but can be higher for speciality work.

Brickwork costs per square foot typically range from $10 to $25. Standard red brick with basic patterns sits at the lower end. Thin brick veneer or speciality bricks typically cost $20 to $25.

Stonework costs per square foot are higher; expect $25 to $50 or more per square foot. Natural stone, such as granite, bluestone, or flagstone, costs more than manufactured stone. If you want custom cuts or unique layouts, add 20%-50% on top.

Masonry pricing per square foot works great for walls, patios, driveways, and other large, flat surfaces where measurements are straightforward.

Masonry Contractor Pricing by Material

What you build makes a big price difference, since brick, stone, concrete, and block all fall into different cost ranges. Brick masonry costs typically range from $8 to $25 per square foot installed, depending on the brick type and design. Basic clay bricks are more affordable, while reclaimed or speciality bricks raise the price. Bricklaying costs typically include labour and mortar, and brickwork costs increase with decorative features such as arches or detailed patterns.

Brick cost highlights:

• Brick masonry cost: $8–$25 per sq ft installed
• Bricklaying labour: $5–$10 per sq ft
• Simple brick wall: ~$12 per sq ft
• Decorative brickwork: Up to $30 per sq ft
• Durable, classic look that fits most climates

Stone Masonry Cost

Stone masonry cost is where things get expensive, but also beautiful. Natural stone installation runs $25 to $50+ per square foot. Manufactured or faux stone is cheaper, around $15 to $30 per square foot.

Custom stonework costs can range from $60 to $100 per square foot if you’re using intricate patterns, hand-cut pieces, or rare stone types. Think dry-stack stone walls, natural stone fireplaces, or high-end outdoor kitchens.

Stone installation takes more time because each piece is unique. Masons have to fit, cut, and adjust as they go. That’s why labour costs are higher compared to brick or block.

Concrete & Block Masonry Cost

Concrete masonry is often the most cost-effective option, with concrete block (CMU) ranging from $8 to $15 per square foot installed, and poured concrete slabs or foundations costing $5 to $12 per square foot, depending on thickness and finish. Block masonry costs remain low because it installs quickly and provides strong structural support, making it ideal for foundations and retaining walls.

• Concrete block (CMU): $8–$15 per sq ft installed
• Poured concrete slabs or foundations: $5–$12 per sq ft
• Veneer or stucco adds curb appeal at a lower cost

Masonry Contractor Charges by Project Type

Different projects come with different price tags. Here’s what to expect for the most common jobs.

Chimney Masonry Cost

Chimney masonry costs depend on the extent of damage, with small repairs costing far less than structural rebuilds. Minor fixes, such as cracked bricks or mortar repointing, are manageable, but leaning chimneys or damaged flue liners quickly become major safety risks and increase costs.

• Minor chimney repairs: $1,000–$5,000
• Full chimney rebuild: $4,000–$10,000+
• Mortar repointing: $500–$2,500

Wall & Retaining Wall Masonry Cost

Wall masonry costs vary by design and purpose, while retaining wall masonry costs are higher because these walls must support soil, water pressure, and proper drainage. Sloped yards often require engineering, permits, and reinforced materials.

• Simple garden or privacy walls: $15–$30 per sq ft
• Retaining wall masonry cost: $25–$50 per sq ft
• Higher cost due to drainage, footings, and reinforcement

Foundation Masonry Cost

Foundation masonry cost reflects how critical the structure is to your home’s safety and stability. Foundations support the entire building, so experienced, licensed contractors are essential for addressing soil conditions, waterproofing, and local code requirements.

• Foundation masonry: $10–$25 per sq ft
• Full basement foundation: $10,000–$30,000+
• Cutting corners here risks long-term structural damage

Masonry Repair vs Installation vs Restoration Costs

Not all masonry work is the same. Repairing existing work is different from installing something new, and restoration is a whole other level.

Masonry repair cost is usually cheaper than a new installation. Patching a crack, replacing a few bricks, or repointing mortar might cost $300 to $2,000. Small fixes keep bigger problems from developing.

Masonry installation cost for new projects like building a patio, wall, or fireplace from scratch ranges from $2,000 to $20,000+, depending on size and materials.

Masonry restoration cost is the most expensive because it involves matching old materials, preserving historical details, and sometimes sourcing rare bricks or stones. Restoring a 100-year-old brick facade could cost $30 to $80 per square foot.

Masonry construction cost for large new builds (like commercial buildings or custom homes) can run into the hundreds of thousands. These projects require architects, engineers, permits, and months of labour.

Residential vs Commercial Masonry Contractor Cost

Residential masonry cost is generally lower because projects are smaller and less complex. A backyard patio or front stoop costs a few thousand dollars. Homeowners also have more flexibility with timelines and design changes.

Commercial masonry cost is higher due to scale, regulations, and insurance requirements. A retail storefront, office building, or apartment complex could involve $100,000+ in masonry work. Commercial jobs must also comply with ADA standards, fire codes, and other applicable regulations.

Contractors who specialize in commercial work often charge more because they carry higher insurance, have larger crews, and work with architects and engineers.

What Affects Masonry Contractor Pricing the Most

Several factors drive up (or bring down) your final bill.

Labour intensity is huge. Intricate patterns, curved walls, or second-story work all take more time. More time = more money.

Materials vary wildly in price. Standard red brick is cheap. Imported Italian tile is not. Natural stone costs more than concrete block. Speciality mortar or sealants add to the total.

Project size and complexity matter. A 10-foot straight wall is fast and easy. A 50-foot curved wall with steps and built-in planters? That’s a multi-day job with custom cuts.

Location and local masonry contractor cost also play a role. Big cities and high-cost areas have higher labour rates. Rural areas might have fewer contractors, which can drive prices up or down depending on demand.

Licensed and professional masonry standards mean you’re paying for insurance, training, permits, and quality work. It costs more upfront but saves you money (and headaches) in the long term.

Masonry Estimates, Quotes & Cost Breakdowns

Before any work starts, you’ll get an estimate or quote. Here’s what to expect.

Masonry Contractor Estimate Explained

A masonry contractor’s estimate is an educated guess of what your project will cost. It’s not final. Contractors base estimates on your description, photos, or a quick site visit.

A good masonry cost estimate includes labour, materials, equipment, and any permits. It should also note what’s not included, like landscaping repairs, painting, or hauling away old materials.

Masonry Contractor Quote vs Final Cost

A masonry contractor’s quote is more detailed and closer to the final price. Some contractors use “quote” and “estimate” interchangeably, but a quote usually means they’ve measured the site and locked in material costs.

Why do quotes change? Hidden damage, design changes, or unforeseen issues like bad soil or water problems can bump up the final cost. Always ask what could cause the price to increase.

Masonry Cost Breakdown

A typical masonry cost breakdown looks like this:

• Labour: 40% to 60% of total cost
• Materials: 30% to 50% (brick, stone, mortar, sand, gravel)
• Equipment: 5% to 10% (mixers, scaffolding, saws)
• Permits and fees: 2% to 5%

If your total masonry project cost is $8,000, you might be paying $4,000 for labor, $3,200 for materials, and $800 for equipment and permits.

Affordable vs Professional Masonry Services

Affordable masonry services don’t always mean cheap or low quality, but sometimes they do. Be careful.

True affordability comes from smart planning: using cost-effective materials, simplifying designs, and working with contractors during their slow season. A $3,000 patio can still be high quality if it’s well built with good materials.

Professional masonry cost is higher because you’re paying for experience, insurance, and warranties. A licensed masonry contractor’s cost might be 20% to 40% more than an unlicensed handyman, but you get peace of mind, code compliance, and work that lasts.

Don’t hire the lowest bid without checking references, licenses, and insurance. Fixing bad masonry work costs way more than hiring a pro the first time.

Is Custom Masonry More Expensive?

Yes. Custom masonry cost is almost always higher than standard work.

Custom projects involve unique designs, special materials, or intricate details that take extra time. A custom stone pizza oven? Expect to pay $5,000 to $15,000. A basic block firepit? Maybe $1,500.

But custom work adds long-term value. A beautifully designed stone entryway or hand-laid brick patio can increase your home’s resale value and curb appeal. It’s an investment, not just an expense.

How to Budget for a Masonry Project

Setting a realistic masonry project cost starts with comparing multiple quotes and understanding exactly what’s included, not just the final number. Smart budgeting also means planning payments carefully and leaving room for surprises so your project doesn’t stall or go over budget.

• Get at least three quotes and compare scope, materials, and experience
• Expect 10%–30% upfront, progress payments, and a final balance at completion
• Avoid unusually low bids that may lead to shortcuts or hidden costs
• Add a 10%–20% contingency for weather delays, repairs, or material issues

Conclusion

Masonry contractor charges depend on your project type, materials, location, and who you hire. Most homeowners pay between $2,000 and $10,000 for residential work, while commercial projects can run much higher.

Whether you’re repairing a chimney, building a retaining wall, or installing a custom stone patio, working with professional, licensed masonry contractors ensures quality, safety, and long-term value. Don’t cut corners on something that’s literally holding up your home or business.

If you’re still deciding what kind of work you need and when you’re ready to hire, visit our Masonry Contractors page to find trusted professionals in your area.

Get multiple quotes, ask questions, and choose someone who’s trusted.