%20(2).png)
Durable & Stylish Stone Veneers in Stratford, CT
Get the best of both worlds in Stratford: a stone veneer that is both incredibly durable and stylish. Excellence Masonry and Contracting uses top-quality materials and installation techniques to ensure longevity.
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.
-
Our Approach is Thorough and Integrated – As a design-build firm, we eliminate the gap between planning and execution, ensuring every project or service is assessed and delivered with maximum efficiency and zero oversights.
-
The Team We Have is Experienced and Robust – Backed by a 25-year family legacy and a crew with up to 50 years of expertise, our team of long-term employees and trusted partners provides a level of craftsmanship that only comes from decades in the field.
-
Industry-Leading Warranties and a Client for Life Guarantee – We provide warranties that far exceed state minimums. Our "Client for Life" commitment means we intend to stand by you, and our work, well beyond one project or its warranty. Our goal is to build a relationship, and become a trusted resource for you, year after year. We remain open to address issues, answer questions, assist with maintenance, or repairs, no matter what. Our business is relationship based, not transactional.
-
Transparency and Consistent Communication – We keep you in control through complete education and daily updates. From the first call to the final walkthrough, we ensure all costs, options, and timelines are fully transparent.
-
Commitment to Professional Responsibility and Top-Quality – We take full ownership of project or service management so you don't have to. Our focus is on delivering the highest feasible standard within your budget, supported by premium partners and a high-performance process.
Our Process
Of course, every project, service 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 assess the structural substrate of your home and discuss the aesthetic goals—whether you want the look of full-bed stone or a modern thin veneer. We provide a rough estimate and discuss essential moisture-management requirements.
2.
Design / Planning
We value-engineer the moisture-management system, including the drainage mat and weather-resistant barriers (WRB). We establish a construction plan for the flashing and stone bonding to ensure the stone provides an airtight, protective, and beautiful layer.
3.
Construction / Service
Our masons focus on tight, clean joints and architectural transitions. We implement professional "stay-dry" techniques at all windows and doors. You’ll receive consistent updates as the exterior of your home is transformed with precision.
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.
FAQ's
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.
4.
Walk-Thru, Clean-Up & Maintain
We perform a final inspection of all joints and flashing points. We’ll walk you through the structural protection features and discuss how to keep the stone clean and free of efflorescence, ensuring your siding remains a permanent asset.
Testimonials
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.