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When starting a construction or renovation project, understanding the difference between a masonry contractor and a general contractor can save you time, money, and confusion. While both professionals are essential in the building world, they serve very different roles. One focuses on the artistry and structure of stone, brick, and concrete, while the other manages the entire project from blueprint to completion. Knowing who to hire—and when—can make all the difference in the success of your build.
A masonry contractor is a specialized tradesperson focused on building and repairing structures made of brick, block, stone, and concrete. They are experts in everything from decorative stone facades to durable brick retaining walls. Masonry contractors are often brought onto construction sites when precise, aesthetically pleasing, and structurally sound stonework is required. Masonry work isn’t just about stacking bricks—it involves knowledge of mortar composition, reinforcement techniques, structural integrity, weatherproofing, and proper curing times. These professionals must understand how materials like limestone, granite, and concrete react over time, especially in specific climates or under heavy loads.
Unlike general builders, masonry contractors develop a deep technical understanding of materials. They are skilled in cutting, laying, and aligning materials with exacting precision. Their craftsmanship is evident in both residential and commercial projects—ranging from fireplaces and chimneys to elaborate facades and paving.
Most regions require masonry contractors to be licensed or certified, often requiring them to pass written exams and provide proof of completed apprenticeships or years of hands-on work. These credentials ensure they can interpret blueprints and comply with safety and building codes specific to masonry construction.
General contractors (GCs) are responsible for overseeing construction projects from start to finish. They coordinate the schedules of various subcontractors, including masonry contractors, and ensure that all work meets code and client expectations. A general contractor typically does not perform specialized labor; instead, they manage timelines, budgets, materials, and personnel. General contractors serve as the primary point of contact for the project. They’re often the ones securing building permits, ordering supplies, hiring subcontractors, and managing inspections. On larger projects, they are critical for organizing workflows and resolving on-site challenges quickly.
On projects that involve building stone retaining walls, brick siding, or poured concrete features, a general contractor will hire a masonry contractor as a subcontractor. The general contractor ensures the mason’s timeline fits with the broader schedule and verifies that their work aligns with the project’s overall design and safety standards.
While a general contractor may have some experience in masonry or other trades, their strength lies in coordination and planning. They collaborate with architects, engineers, building inspectors, and homeowners to bring construction projects together efficiently and professionally.
The scope of a masonry contractor is narrower but more specialized. They specialize exclusively in working with masonry materials, and their work is typically part of a larger construction project. General contractors, on the other hand, are involved from the planning phase through to final inspection. Their role encompasses everything from site prep and framing to plumbing, electrical, roofing, and finish work. They are the overseer rather than the hands-on expert in a specific craft.
A masonry contractor might be responsible for constructing brick fireplaces that serve as elegant focal points in homes or outdoor living areas. They are often hired to build concrete retaining walls that help manage soil erosion and add structural support to sloped yards. Another common task includes laying stone pavers for patios, walkways, or garden features—projects that require precision and a good eye for symmetry. In historic preservation projects, masonry contractors may also be called upon to repair damaged mortar, repoint brickwork, or restore crumbling stone to its original appearance. These examples highlight the balance of durability and aesthetic appeal that masonry professionals bring to residential and commercial construction.
General contractors, by contrast, typically oversee full-scale projects such as home remodels that include structural, electrical, and plumbing updates. They might also manage the construction of a new residential build from the ground up, ensuring each subcontractor—from framers to flooring installers—is scheduled correctly. In commercial settings, general contractors handle extensive renovations or tenant improvements, transforming raw spaces into custom offices, restaurants, or retail shops. Their role is less about physical labor and more about orchestrating a seamless process that brings all trades together. When masons, electricians, HVAC technicians, and roofers are all part of the job, the general contractor ensures each specialist works in harmony with the others.
The choice between hiring a masonry contractor or a general contractor depends on your project’s size, complexity, and the type of work involved. For tasks limited to stone, brick, or concrete construction, a masonry contractor is the best choice. They’ll deliver craftsmanship and material expertise that a general contractor may not possess. However, your project may involve multiple types of work, such as building an entire house or renovating a kitchen, that would require electrical, plumbing, flooring, and masonry. In that case, hiring a general contractor to manage the project makes more sense. They can bring in specialists, including a masonry contractor, to handle individual tasks.
In general, masonry contractors bill by the project or square foot for the actual installation of brick, block, stone, or concrete work. Their pricing is based on material costs, labor time, difficulty of installation, and required permits or reinforcements.
General contractors typically charge a percentage of the total project cost (usually between 10% and 20%) as a management fee. This includes planning, subcontractor coordination, and ongoing supervision.
A masonry contractor might charge more if your design includes rare stone, complex brick patterns, or if the site is hard to access. Since their work is highly skilled and material-dependent, budget ranges can vary widely. But you’re paying for long-term durability and beauty.
Because general contractors carry liability insurance, bonding, and employ or subcontract multiple professionals, their markup includes administrative, supervisory, and risk-related costs. While this adds to the project total, it simplifies your responsibility as a property owner.
On most major construction projects, general contractors and masonry contractors work closely together. The GC manages the schedule and ensures that the masonry work aligns with the project’s broader objectives, while the masonry contractor executes the detailed work.
The success of the partnership depends on clear communication, defined roles, and mutual respect. The general contractor trusts the masonry specialist to handle the technical work correctly, while the masonry contractor relies on the GC to keep the project on track and well-funded.
A masonry contractor may only be on-site for a specific window, such as framing a foundation or installing a brick veneer. The general contractor schedules this window to align with other tasks, such as roofing or siding, to prevent delays.
General contractors are often responsible for passing final inspections and ensuring every subcontractor meets safety and code requirements. This involves reviewing the masonry contractor’s work to ensure it complies with specifications and permitting regulations.
There are plenty of situations where hiring a masonry contractor directly is the most sensible choice—even without a general contractor. If you’re installing a stone patio, repairing a chimney, or restoring an old brick wall, you don’t need a GC to manage the process.
By hiring a masonry contractor directly, you get to work one-on-one with a skilled artisan. This direct connection often results in more personalized service, lower costs, and more transparent communication regarding your desired aesthetic.
Choosing between a masonry contractor and a general contractor depends entirely on the size and scope of your project. If you require specialty work using brick, block, or stone, then a masonry contractor is the ideal expert. They bring refined craftsmanship and deep knowledge of materials to the table. For large, multifaceted construction projects involving multiple trades and complex scheduling, a general contractor is essential. They keep everything moving, manage permits and inspections, and ensure your project finishes on time and on budget.
Often, the best approach is collaboration: a general contractor handles overall project management while bringing in trusted subcontractors, such as masonry professionals, to complete the work to the highest standard. Check out our Artistic Masonry LLC blog to learn more about masonry contractors and the type of projects they can help you with.
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