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Testimonials
Expert Stone Veneer Contractors in New Haven County, CT
Excellence Masonry and Contracting offers expert stone veneer installation throughout New Haven County. Whether you need a stone facade in Milford or a cultured stone chimney in Southbury, we deliver durable, high-quality masonry.
Applying stone veneer correctly is a multi-step, weatherproofing process that protects the structure of your home, and depends on where we are installing the veneer. For example, for non-concrete wall applications, we begin by installing a dual-layer weather-resistant barrier over the sheathing, followed by a metal lath which provides a mechanical grip for the mortar. A crucial "scratch coat" of mortar is then applied and cured, creating a perfect bonding surface for the stone. Each piece of stone is "back-buttered" with mortar before being set to ensure 100% coverage and prevent water from finding voids behind the veneer. This meticulous, layered system is the only way to guarantee a beautiful, permanent, and watertight stone siding application. Applying veneer on concrete is a similar process, but requires a layer of wire lathe within the scratch coat.
Why Choose Us?
There are many construction, landscaping, outdoor living, and design companies to choose from- here is what makes us different.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.
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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 is the difference between full stone and thin stone veneer?
Full bed stone is a traditional, structural masonry product, typically 4-6 inches thick. Thin stone veneer is a lighter, non-structural product, usually about 1-2 inches thick, that is adhered to a wall surface. Thin veneer is more versatile and can be installed on a wider variety of structures without needing a brick ledge.
Can stone veneer be installed over existing siding?
It depends on the type of siding and the wall's condition. In most cases, the existing siding (like vinyl or wood) must be removed to properly prepare the wall surface with a moisture barrier and lath before the stone veneer can be applied.
How long does stone veneer siding last?
When professionally installed, both natural thin stone and high-quality manufactured cultured stone veneer can last the lifetime of the house. Proper installation with attention to water management is the key to longevity.
Is stone siding difficult to maintain?
No, stone siding is incredibly low-maintenance. It does not need to be painted or stained. Occasional cleaning with a hose and a soft brush to remove dirt or mildew is typically all that's required.
Where can stone veneer be used on a house?
Stone veneer is very versatile. It's popularly used to cover entire homes, as an accent on gables or entranceways, on foundations, columns, chimneys, and even on interior feature walls and fireplaces.
Can stone veneer be installed over existing siding?
It depends on the type of siding and the wall's condition. In most cases, the existing siding (like vinyl or wood) must be removed to properly prepare the wall surface with a moisture barrier and lath before the stone veneer can be applied.
Where can stone veneer be used on a house?
Stone veneer is very versatile. It's popularly used to cover entire homes, as an accent on gables or entranceways, on foundations, columns, chimneys, and even on interior feature walls and fireplaces.
How long does stone veneer siding last?
When professionally installed, both natural thin stone and high-quality manufactured cultured stone veneer can last the lifetime of the house. Proper installation with attention to water management is the key to longevity.
Is stone siding difficult to maintain?
No, stone siding is incredibly low-maintenance. It does not need to be painted or stained. Occasional cleaning with a hose and a soft brush to remove dirt or mildew is typically all that's required.
What is the difference between full stone and thin stone veneer?
Full bed stone is a traditional, structural masonry product, typically 4-6 inches thick. Thin stone veneer is a lighter, non-structural product, usually about 1-2 inches thick, that is adhered to a wall surface. Thin veneer is more versatile and can be installed on a wider variety of structures without needing a brick ledge.