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Testimonials
Your Local Clinton, CT Fire Pit Installers
For a great new fire pit in Clinton, call your local installers at Excellence Masonry and Contracting. We pride ourselves on quality work and building beautiful, safe fire features for our community.
The safe and durable construction of a masonry fire feature is governed by principles of thermodynamics and specialized materials. The interior firebox, which endures the most extreme temperatures, must be constructed from high-duty firebrick laid with refractory mortar—a specialized cement that can withstand temperatures exceeding 2000°F. For fireplaces, we calculate the precise flue size-to-firebox opening ratio to ensure proper smoke drafting. For fire pits, we incorporate air vents into the base of the structure to allow oxygen to feed the fire for a cleaner, more efficient burn. These are only some of the technical details that are critical for both safety and performance.
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!
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.
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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's the difference between a wood-burning and a gas fire pit?
A wood-burning fire pit offers a classic, rustic experience with the crackle and aroma of real wood. A gas fire pit provides instant on/off convenience with no smoke or cleanup, often featuring decorative lava rock or fire glass for a more modern look.
Do I need a permit for an outdoor fireplace or fire pit?
It varies. Portable fire pits usually don't require a permit, but permanent, built-in masonry fire pits and especially outdoor fireplaces often do. Any feature running a natural gas or propane line will require a permit and inspection from your local building department.
What materials are best for building a fire pit?
The interior of a wood-burning fire feature must be lined with fire brick to withstand high temperatures. The exterior can be built from a wide variety of non-combustible materials, including natural stone, concrete wall blocks, or brick, to match your patio and home.
Can a fire pit be installed on my existing paver patio?
Yes, in most cases. For a wood-burning fire pit, we typically install a steel ring insert and fire brick to protect the surrounding pavers from intense heat. Gas fire pits are generally simpler to install on an existing patio as the heat is more controlled.
What's the difference between a fire pit and an outdoor fireplace?
A fire pit provides 360-degree seating and is a great social hub. An outdoor fireplace is a more substantial, vertical structure with a chimney. It creates a dramatic focal point, directs smoke up and away, and radiates heat forward, making it ideal for a dedicated seating area.
Do I need a permit for an outdoor fireplace or fire pit?
It varies. Portable fire pits usually don't require a permit, but permanent, built-in masonry fire pits and especially outdoor fireplaces often do. Any feature running a natural gas or propane line will require a permit and inspection from your local building department.
What's the difference between a fire pit and an outdoor fireplace?
A fire pit provides 360-degree seating and is a great social hub. An outdoor fireplace is a more substantial, vertical structure with a chimney. It creates a dramatic focal point, directs smoke up and away, and radiates heat forward, making it ideal for a dedicated seating area.
What materials are best for building a fire pit?
The interior of a wood-burning fire feature must be lined with fire brick to withstand high temperatures. The exterior can be built from a wide variety of non-combustible materials, including natural stone, concrete wall blocks, or brick, to match your patio and home.
Can a fire pit be installed on my existing paver patio?
Yes, in most cases. For a wood-burning fire pit, we typically install a steel ring insert and fire brick to protect the surrounding pavers from intense heat. Gas fire pits are generally simpler to install on an existing patio as the heat is more controlled.
What's the difference between a wood-burning and a gas fire pit?
A wood-burning fire pit offers a classic, rustic experience with the crackle and aroma of real wood. A gas fire pit provides instant on/off convenience with no smoke or cleanup, often featuring decorative lava rock or fire glass for a more modern look.