Get matched with top masons in Sterling, NY

Q: What kind of drill bit do I need for brick?

• <div><p>Drilling into brick or mortar requires the use of a masonry drill bit. Masonry drill bits appear similar to standard drill bits except for the leading tip of the bit. The tip has a bulky carbide arrow-shaped end slightly larger than the rest of the bit shaft. Standard or high-speed drill bits designed for making holes in wood or metal don&rsquo;t have the ruggedness or design shape you need to drill into brick. They may not go through the brick at all, and if they do, they&rsquo;re more likely to overheat, crack, or dull before you finish drilling.</p></div>

Q: Is it a good idea to paint a brick house?

• <div><p>In most cases, painting your brick house is a fine idea that can open up new aesthetic possibilities. However, the paint can slightly shorten the life span of brick, especially if moisture gets trapped underneath the paint layer. Once you paint, you&rsquo;ll have to keep up with maintenance to avoid flaking and blisters.</p></div>

Q: Does brick increase home value?

• <div><p>Brick can increase the value of your home depending on the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-are-most-common-masonry-materials.htm">type of masonry materials</a> used. Homes generally have a higher resale value when they have brick siding, and brick is also easier to maintain (and lasts longer) than other <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/pros-and-cons-different-house-siding.htm">types of siding</a>, which can motivate buyers to make an offer.</p><p>Just keep in mind, however, that although brick can up the asking price when you sell your house, the cost to brick a house is also more expensive than other typical siding costs&mdash;so you&rsquo;ll invest more in the project.</p></div>

Q: What does mortar do?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-are-most-common-masonry-materials.htm">Mortar is a mixture of sand and cement</a> that binds materials, such as bricks, stones, and concrete blocks, together. Think of it as the glue that fills in the gaps between bricks and stones, then seals them in place to prevent damage or deterioration. Mortar also helps spread the load across a wall or structure, keeping cracks and shifting at bay. </p></div>

Q: Is it better to limewash or whitewash brick?

• <div><p>The choice between <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/limewash-vs-whitewash.htm">limewash vs. whitewash</a> brick depends on aesthetic preference and the desired outcome. Whitewashing creates a softer, more opaque finish, suitable for a rustic or shabby-chic look. Since the solution is paint-based, you can use it on painted brick, unlike limewash. Limewashing offers a more natural, textured appearance, allowing the brick's texture to shine while providing a breathable, protective coating. Conversely, whitewashing is also more forgiving when it comes to application, while limewashing requires more skill but offers a more traditional and durable finish.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Masonry Work pros in Sterling, NY

*The Angi rating for Masonry Work companies in Sterling, NY is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Masonry Work needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Masonry Work companies in Sterling, NY is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Masonry Work needs.

Last update on January 02, 2026

Reviewed in June 2025
Capital Chimneys and Masonry Repairs contacted me the same day i requested a quote, and were able to visit to provide a quote within day or so. They then visited, and completed the chinking on an outside wall, repaired a wall in the basement, and were able to install a gutter to ensure the water...
Capital Chimneys and Masonry Repairs
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Reviewed in October 2023
I highly recommend Alludi Associates! Alex and his team were professional, communicative, and did an excellent job painting my house. I had various projects in need of attention and Alex addressed them all promptly and honestly. He was willing to help with any project, big or small, and answered...
Alludi Associates
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Reviewed in July 2023
Antonio and his crew are wonderful to work with. They redid our driveway retaining walls with a beautiful stacked natural fieldstone. Communication of the scope and budget was very clear and there were no surprises. The workmanship is top notch. I highly recommend Bolani Masonry.
Bolani Masonry
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Reviewed in February 2023
Ken and his crew were hired to refinish and add trim to our 100-year-old floor. Ken was helpful in explaining our options as we were contemplating replacing, but he assured us we would like the finished product and the trim would look original and he met our expectations and some. He was on...
AJ Floor Service
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Reviewed in December 2022
This is a phenomenal company. They are expert, experienced, & demonstrate integrity. Wonderful people. The project was completed in a timely manner and clean up was thorough. The quality of their work is top notch. I could not be more happy with the outcome.
Drywall Inc
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Reviewed in August 2022
Was waiting to see if the ground beetles (in the 1,000's) would finally disappear. Dread going down the basement as they come every year. I am praying this is the last time I will see them. Did not reply to you until I thought I could give you the most honest answer. They are very efficient...
Meerkat Pest Control, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2021
Justin is a perfectionist, his craftmanship was apparent as my fence was not a run of the mill installation. He communicated very well along the way and I highly recommend him, he has integrity and his engineering background did come in handy during the project. He left the job site spotless.
JJ Michaels Construction Services
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Reviewed in May 2021
This team was fast and reliable! Received reasonable quote in the morning, job scheduled for the afternoon! Tree trimming of large maple and multiple tall pine trees. The site was cleaned up better than it was before. Highly recommend them for your job. Thanks for the service. Ernie &...
JG Lawn & Snow
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Reviewed in February 2021
Great prices, showed up on time, job completed on time, friendly and efficient workers, cleaned up job afterwards, quality materials used,
Frigid Air & Insulation, Inc.
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Reviewed in August 2018
Rahman from S & R Construction corp and his colleagues performed excellent work at a very fair price. The work was seen through professionally from start to finish. Rahman and workers arrived on-time and were responsive in communications. They attended to details not on the original contract...
S & R General Construction NYC Corp
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