How Much Does Masonry Work Cost Per Hour?
If you’re planning to improve your home with stone or brick work, one of the first questions that probably comes to mind is: how much does masonry work cost per hour? It’s a fair question—and one that doesn’t always have a straight answer.
Masonry work covers a wide range of services, from building brick walls and patios to repairing chimneys and laying stone walkways. The cost of these services can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, the size and complexity of the job, and, of course, who you hire to do the work.
In this post, we’ll walk through the key factors that affect masonry pricing, what you can expect to pay per hour, and why hiring an experienced masonry contractor—like the team at Murphy Masonry—is one of the best investments you can make for your home.
What Does Masonry Work Include?
Masonry is the art (and science) of building with materials like:
Brick
Stone
Concrete block
Mortar
Veneer
Masonry can be structural or decorative, and it includes projects like:
Retaining walls
Fireplaces
Brick patios and walkways
Stone facades
Foundation work
Because there are so many different types of masonry work, prices can vary a lot. A simple job like fixing a loose brick might take an hour or two. But building a custom stone fireplace or replacing a cracked foundation wall? That’s going to require days—or even weeks—of labor.
Average Hourly Rate for Masonry Work
In general, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere between $50 and $150 per hour for masonry labor, depending on the job. Here’s a rough breakdown of what those numbers look like:
It’s worth noting that many contractors don’t charge strictly by the hour. Often, they’ll provide a total project estimate instead. But even with a flat quote, understanding the hourly breakdown helps you know if you’re getting fair value.
What Impacts the Cost?
Here are the main factors that influence the hourly rate for masonry work:
1. Type of Material
Brick, stone, concrete, and veneer all come with different costs and installation requirements. For example, natural stone is heavier and takes longer to work with than brick—so labor will cost more.
2. Complexity of the Job
Straightforward brick walls cost less than curved stone steps or custom-built fireplaces. More detailed work means more time and higher skill.
3. Your Location
Where you live plays a big role. If you’re looking for Brick Installation In Minnesota, you might pay differently than someone in Arizona or New York. In colder climates like Minnesota, masons also need to account for freeze-thaw cycles and moisture management.
4. Contractor Experience
Highly rated contractors with years of experience may charge more per hour—but the peace of mind and quality of work they deliver is worth it.
Take Murphy Masonry, for example. They’ve earned a reputation as a reliable, honest, and highly skilled masonry contractor in Minnesota. They’re not the cheapest on the market—but their craftsmanship, service, and results speak for themselves.
What You Can Expect to Pay in Minnesota
If you're a homeowner in Minnesota, you're likely wondering what the local costs look like. Based on regional averages and what customers typically report:
Basic brick repair: around $60/hour
Chimney rebuilding: closer to $80–$110/hour
Custom stone features: up to $120/hour or more
Minnesota’s climate plays a huge role in this. Brick and stone structures in the state need to hold up to extreme cold, snow, and thawing, which can damage poorly installed masonry. That’s why hiring someone who understands brick installation in Minnesota is essential.
Why It Pays to Hire a Skilled Masonry Contractor
While it might be tempting to go with the cheapest quote or try a DIY approach, masonry isn’t something you want to cut corners on. Poor workmanship can lead to cracks, water damage, and expensive repairs down the road.
Hiring a licensed masonry contractor who knows the right materials, techniques, and local conditions can actually save you money in the long run.
A few things to look for when choosing a contractor:
Local experience
References or online reviews
Clear, written estimates
Warranty or guarantee on work
Knowledge of Minnesota building codes and climate challenges
Meet Murphy Masonry – Minnesota’s Trusted Masonry Team
If you want the job done right the first time, Murphy Masonry is a name homeowners trust.
Here’s why they stand out:
Experienced in local climate needs – They know how to handle Minnesota’s harsh winters and build masonry that lasts.
Full-service masonry contractor – From small repairs to full installations, they handle it all.
Transparent pricing – No hidden fees, no surprises.
Clean, professional work – They respect your property and leave the job site spotless.
Whether you need a chimney rebuilt, a patio laid, or expert brick installation in Minnesota, Murphy Masonry delivers quality with every brick and stone.
How to Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality
Masonry is an investment, but there are ways to make the most of your budget:
1. Schedule Off-Season Work
Minnesota masons are busiest during spring and summer. Booking your project in the fall or winter could get you better availability and rates.
2. Bundle Multiple Projects
Need a new brick walkway and some chimney work? Ask about doing both at once. Combining projects can save on setup and travel time.
3. Do Some Light Prep
You might be able to reduce labor time by clearing the area beforehand or handling cleanup yourself. Ask your contractor what's safe to do on your own.
4. Ask Questions
A good contractor will walk you through your options and help you find cost-effective solutions that still meet your goals.
Final Thoughts: Is Masonry Worth the Hourly Cost?
Absolutely.
Masonry adds beauty, durability, and value to your home. Whether you’re installing a brick wall, repairing a chimney, or building a backyard patio, professional masonry work is one of the best investments you can make.
And when you hire someone with the skill and local knowledge of Murphy Masonry Contact, you get more than just labor—you get peace of mind, long-lasting results, and real return on your home improvement budget.
So next time you're asking, how much does masonry work cost per hour?, remember—it’s not just about the price. It’s about quality, trust, and hiring a team that knows how to get the job done right.
