%20(2).png)
Testimonials
Top-Rated Driveway Column Builders in Avon, CT
Excellence Masonry and Contracting is a top-rated mason for driveway columns in Avon, CT. We create stunning, stately stone and brick pillars that provide a grand entrance to your property.
Building a set of masonry columns that remain perfectly plumb and crack-free for a lifetime requires a robust internal structure. Each column we build starts with a concrete footing poured below the frost line. From this footing, we construct a core of concrete masonry units (CMUs) reinforced with vertical steel rebar. This reinforced core provides the true strength of the column, which is then clad in your choice of beautiful brick, natural stone, or veneer. This method ensures your stately columns can easily support the weight of heavy custom gates and withstand impacts or shifting soil without compromising their structural integrity.
Why Choose Us?
There are many construction, landscaping, outdoor living, and design companies to choose from- here is what makes us different.
-
Our Approach is Thorough and Integrated- no stone is left unturned, and as a design-build company, we have an unmatched ability to assess, plan, and execute projects efficiently.
-
The Team We Have is Experienced and Robust- our construction team is comprised of experts who are our family, friends, as well as long-time employees and subcontractors. Our company sprouted from a family business started 25+ years ago, and some members of our crew have more than 50 years of experience.
-
Industry-Leading Warranties and a Client for Life Guarantee- on new installations and applicable repairs, we provide warranties well beyond State minimums, and well beyond what most construction, landscaping, masonry, or other companies offer. Our client for life guarantee means that we intend to stand by you and our work, for the life of our business. Our goal is to provide many services and complete many projects for you and the people you know over time. With this intention, we will always be available to address issues, make repairs, or provide maintenance for completed projects- regardless of warranty terms.
-
Transparency and Consistent Communication- with us, all cards are on the table from our first conversation, through the end of the project. We want to provide you with all pertinent details, considerations, and options so you are educated and completely in control of your project and your money. Throughout the project, we uphold this commitment to transparency and communication by providing daily updates and informing you of any changes or new information immediately.
-
Commitment to Professional Responsibility and Top-Quality- in our view, it is our responsibility to ensure your project is done to the highest possible standard within your budget and within the parameters of feasibility. You will not feel like it is "on you" to know what's best or to manage the project when you work with us, which is a common complaint we hear from clients' past experiences. We also have a commitment to top quality, which we display in our work, our team, our industry partners, and our process.
Our Approach to Projects
Of course, every project and every situation is different, and so is our approach.. Below is a general and simplified outline of our process. We can also bid and build to your preexisting plan or design.
1.
Discovery/Consultation
We start with a conversation to understand your intent for the project, assess your property, and determine the best next step- usually a rough estimate, quote or design agreement. Rough pricing, options, and preliminary considerations are discussed. Email, call or fill the form below to get in touch!
2.
Design / Planning
The design and planning phase is where we value engineer your project- and establish the scope of work, project pricing, and our installation/construction plan. This phase will look a bit different for each project and each scenario, with some requiring more design and pre-construction work than others.
3.
Construction
This is when the proposed plan comes to life! Expect a stress-free, transparent, and efficient construction experience due to our thorough design and planning process and consistent communication. Our team respects you, your project, and your property.
4.
Walk-Thru & Clean-Up
After the project is completed, we will walk through the project to go over any pertinent information and maintenance information, as well as to confirm that the project is completed as expected.
FAQ's
What materials are best for driveway columns?
Natural stone (like fieldstone or granite) and brick are classic, durable choices that offer a timeless look. We can also construct columns using architectural block with a stone veneer or stucco finish for a wide range of modern and traditional styles.
Do gate columns need a deep footing?
Yes, a deep concrete footing is absolutely critical. The footing must extend below the frost line (42 inches in CT) to prevent the column from heaving or leaning. It also needs to be substantial enough to support the weight of the column and the leverage of an attached gate.
Can you add lighting or wiring to a new column?
Definitely. During construction is the perfect time to add electrical conduit inside the column. This allows for the easy installation of gate operator wiring, intercom systems, or elegant light fixtures on top of or on the face of the pillars.
How do you attach a gate to a masonry column?
Heavy-duty hardware is anchored directly into the column's solid core. For very heavy or automated gates, we often embed steel reinforcement within the column during construction, which the gate hardware can then be welded or bolted to for maximum strength.
How tall should my driveway columns be?
The height and width should be proportional to your driveway, home, and the gate you plan to install. A typical range is 4 to 6 feet in height. We work with you to design a scale and style that perfectly complements your property's entrance.
Do gate columns need a deep footing?
Yes, a deep concrete footing is absolutely critical. The footing must extend below the frost line (42 inches in CT) to prevent the column from heaving or leaning. It also needs to be substantial enough to support the weight of the column and the leverage of an attached gate.
How tall should my driveway columns be?
The height and width should be proportional to your driveway, home, and the gate you plan to install. A typical range is 4 to 6 feet in height. We work with you to design a scale and style that perfectly complements your property's entrance.
Can you add lighting or wiring to a new column?
Definitely. During construction is the perfect time to add electrical conduit inside the column. This allows for the easy installation of gate operator wiring, intercom systems, or elegant light fixtures on top of or on the face of the pillars.
How do you attach a gate to a masonry column?
Heavy-duty hardware is anchored directly into the column's solid core. For very heavy or automated gates, we often embed steel reinforcement within the column during construction, which the gate hardware can then be welded or bolted to for maximum strength.
What materials are best for driveway columns?
Natural stone (like fieldstone or granite) and brick are classic, durable choices that offer a timeless look. We can also construct columns using architectural block with a stone veneer or stucco finish for a wide range of modern and traditional styles.