Although materials such as stone and brick are extremely durable, they're still vulnerable to the elements. When you need repairs for your stone porch, brick walls, or chimney, you should ensure you hire a reputable masonry contractor. However, with 95,306 masonry businesses currently operating in the United States, according to IBISWorld, you may wonder how you can do this. Here's how to choose a masonry company.

1. Get Multiple Bids

When looking for a masonry company, get at least three bids from different contractors. This will not only help you get the best deal but also allow you to meet with the masonry contractors and get a glimpse of who they are. Don't just rely on your gut. If they can't describe what work needs to be done and how they plan to approach the project, it's best to look elsewhere. Don't engage them if they're unwilling to provide you with alternative quotes based on the materials and project requirements. If they seem to contradict themselves or show up to your appointment without samples, quotes, or anything else that indicates they're unprepared, take it as a red flag.

2. Get References

You want to ensure you're hiring a reliable and trustworthy masonry company. A professional and seasoned contractor will be willing to provide the contact information of former clients, who'll act as references for their work. If they don't, it may be a sign that the contractor has left a trail of unhappy customers.

3. Consult the Better Business Bureau

Some ill-intended masonry contractors have ingenious ways of hiding negative reviews. A quick way to learn if previous clients have lodged complaints about a contractor you're keen to hire is to get in touch with the Better Business Bureau. Although a complaint doesn't necessarily imply your contractor did something wrong, it's still wise to have knowledge of this before making your final decision.

4. Learn About Their Customer Service

Unfortunately, some so-called "experts" in masonry create issues for their clients. In other words, they could exaggerate issues in order to pitch you unnecessary solutions. Even worse, if a severe issue arises, they may not address it effectively. Ask about the quality of a masonry contractor's customer service when looking at reviews and meeting with references.

Not all masonry companies are created equal. When you need repair or maintenance services, you must be intentional about who you hire. If you're looking for a quality masonry company, give us a call today at Hilltop Masonry.