Frequently Asked Questions

Drystack generally means that the stones are stacked with a technique that uses their own natural shapes and sizes to interlock them – no mortar. Stones can also be mortared tightly together so as to give a “drystack” look while gaining the integrity of a mortared substructure. Generally, natural stone walls shouldn’t be stacked much higher than a couple of feet. If you need to go higher, walls can have very large stones as a base; or you can terrace your walls, which can add a dramatic effect as well. To get walls higher, you may need significant site work behind the wall to prevent future heaving or damage.

For most decorative walls or retaining walls, we generally excavate six inches down and compact a bed of crushed stone. This helps with drainage under the wall and minimizes heaving during the change of seasons. If the wall is a veneer wall, we need to get a concrete footing in the ground. Then we build a structural wall out of cinder block. From there, we can face that structure with veneer stone.

Similar to a stone wall, we excavate down between four to six inches and then fill the void with stonedust. This is compacted, smoothed, and pitched for water runoff. It is then ready for setting pavers.

This generally depends on the preparation done around the firebox. Pallet stone can be used if there is a concrete base wide enough to support it. If this is something being retrofitted, you will likely need to use veneer stone.

Interior walls can be prepared with a cement board or with particle board that is then wrapped in waterproof materials. Exterior walls are very similar in their preparation. Both usually require a wire lathe as well that helps create a strong bond between wood and the masonry.

Cultured Stone is actually a specific brand of faux stone, but most people use the name generically to describe any faux stone product. Most faux stones have similar prep to natural stone, but some brands specify certain types of mortar that must be used with their product.

We do not offer brick and mortar construction for home facades, but we do offer fireplace construction inclusive of all masonry elements.

Yes. Our services run the gamut, from cash-and-carry material sales for the do-it-yourselfer to design consultation to complete installation services. We can be involved as much or as little as you want us to be.

It depends on what is on the floor already. Sometimes materials must be torn up. From there, the floor must be prepped with a cement board and then tile can be set.

No. We are able to mortar your tile directly to your existing walls, making a backsplash project an affordable way to update your kitchen’s appearance.

This is not an incredibly intensive project, but it does involve a few steps. A plumber needs to shut off your water and disconnect fixtures. Then the tub and existing shower can be removed. From there a new waterproof shower system is built out, and we’re set to tile.

Yes. We work with some of the best contractors in the area for aspects of plumbing, electrical, and carpentry. We oversee the process through every step and finish off the project ourselves.

Quartz is a manufactured surface that is made by mixing 93% ground natural quartz with 7% polymer resins. The result is a material that still looks natural, but the engineering provides for more consumer customization based on the individual’s design plans.

The color palette is very broad, giving you many options to choose from. Available colors range from neutrals like creams, browns, and blacks to apple reds and grassy greens. Regardless of decor, quartz will complement a traditional, modern, or contemporary theme. For an added effect, recycled glass or metallic flecks are added in certain lines during the manufacturing process.

No. Quartz countertops do not require the resealing needed for surfaces like granite. Extra maintenance is practically nonexistent if the countertops are cleaned on a daily basis or after use.

Use quartz for kitchen counters, bathroom vanity tops, fireplaces, shower surrounds, windowsills, and coffee tables. Businesses can use quartz for food service counters, conference tables, and reception tops. Just remember that quartz cannot be used for exterior purposes as it can discolor with too much exposure to ultraviolet light.