Straight Answers
Masonry Questions, Answered Plain
Costs, timelines, materials, and how we work. If your question isn't here, call us at (903) 259-9403 and ask — that's what we're here for.
Money First
Estimates & Pricing
Do you give free estimates?
Yes. We'll come out, look at the project, talk through options and materials, and give you a written estimate at no charge.
How much does masonry work cost?
It depends on the job. Flowerbeds and mailboxes usually start at a few hundred dollars. Patios and retaining walls typically run in the thousands, depending on size and stone. Outdoor kitchens run $8,000 to $30,000, and fireplaces run $6,000 to $20,000. Every job gets a free written quote before we start — no surprises.
Do you require a deposit?
Terms depend on the size of the job and the materials involved. We'll explain the payment terms in your written quote before any work starts, so you know exactly what to expect.
Is there a minimum job size?
No job too small. We take mailboxes, flowerbed borders, and small repairs the same as we take whole-house veneer jobs. If it's rock, stone, or brick, we're interested.
Stone & Brick
Materials & Durability
What's the difference between natural and manufactured stone?
Natural stone is cut from a quarry — every piece is unique and it lasts practically forever. Manufactured stone is cast concrete made to look like natural stone — it's lighter, usually costs less, and comes in consistent shapes. Both hold up well here. We'll show you samples and prices so you can pick what fits your house and your budget.
What stone works best in East Texas?
Most of what we lay around here is Texas limestone, sandstone, and chopped stone from regional yards — they handle our heat, humidity, and the occasional hard freeze without trouble. Brick does just as well. The bigger factor is the footing underneath, and we don't cut corners there.
How long does masonry work last?
Generations, when it's built on proper footings with good mortar. Stone and brick are some of the oldest building materials on earth for a reason. Most failures we see come from bad footings or poor drainage — not the masonry itself. That's why we start every job with the base.
Can you match my existing brick or stone?
Almost always. We work with stone yards across East Texas and can usually match or complement your existing brick or stone so the new work looks like it was built with the house.
How It Works
Scheduling & Process
What areas does 3rd Rock Masonry serve?
We're based in Emory, Texas and work across Rains County and the Lake Fork area, including Point, Alba, Yantis, Quitman, Sulphur Springs, Canton, Winnsboro, and Mineola. If you're nearby but don't see your town, call us — we probably cover it.
How long does a typical masonry project take?
A flowerbed or mailbox usually takes a day or two. Patios and retaining walls typically run several days to a week. Outdoor kitchens and fireplaces usually take one to three weeks depending on size and materials. We'll give you a timeline with your estimate.
What happens after I call?
We'll set a time to come out and walk the job — usually within a few days. We take measurements, talk through materials and options, and get you a written estimate with a price and a timeline. Then it's your call. No pressure, no hounding.
Do you clean up after the job?
Yes. Cleanup is part of every quote. We haul off scrap stone, mortar bags, and pallets, and we leave the site the way we found it — except for the new stonework.
Didn't See Your Question?
Call and ask. Real answers from the people who'll be on your job — not a script.