Bricklaying and Masonry in Chicago: Hiring Guide

Describe the problem before choosing a repair

Photograph the whole wall and close views of the affected area from the ground. Tell the contractor what you noticed, when you noticed it, and whether you have associated indoor dampness. Identify whether your request concerns mortar joints, damaged bricks, a chimney, or new masonry. Let the contractor assess the cause before you settle on a repair method.

Ask for a marked photograph or sketch of the proposed repair boundaries. Have the bidder distinguish work they can price after the visit from areas that need closer access or further investigation. If contractors recommend different scopes, ask them to explain their reasoning before comparing totals.

Keep people away from loose overhead masonry, a bulging wall, or a leaning chimney and arrange a professional assessment. Stay off the roof and avoid disturbing loose pieces for photographs. Ask the assessor whether another specialist should evaluate the condition before you authorize repairs.

Choose who will carry out and authorize the work

Ask who will sign the contract, supervise the crew, and respond to problems during the project. Request insurance documentation and references for comparable masonry work. When reviewing previous work, ask about the original scope and any changes rather than judging appearance alone.

For a shared building, identify the owner or association that can authorize work on the wall or chimney. Discuss access through neighboring property, equipment placement, and protection of entrances and windows. Assign responsibility for those arrangements in the contract.

Ask the contractor to confirm permit requirements for your specific scope with the Department of Buildings. Record who will handle any application, fees, and inspections. For designated properties, include the preservation review described below in that conversation. [2]

Compare itemized masonry quotes

Give each bidder the same repair boundaries and request separate descriptions for preparation, joint work, brick replacement, access equipment, debris removal, and protection of surrounding surfaces. Ask whether the total includes samples or a trial repair area. Use site-specific bids to set your budget.

For joint work, ask the contractor to specify the proposed mortar and removal method. For replacement bricks, review a sample and agree on the acceptable appearance before ordering. Request an explanation of how the contractor will choose materials for the existing masonry.

Read exclusions alongside the total. Ask how the contractor will document and price additional damage uncovered during work, and require written approval before expanding the scope. Agree on payment stages and written warranty terms before paying a deposit.

Plan the work around weather and access

O'Hare's 1991–2020 climate normals show an average of 2.7 October days with lows at or below 32°F, increasing to 14.5 in November. For a late-year project, ask the contractor to explain the chosen material's application and curing requirements, forecast checks, and proposed protection. [3]

Agree on postponement conditions and any protection charges before setting the start date. Ask how long equipment will occupy the property and whether residents will retain access to entrances. Separate the date for assessing an urgent condition from the schedule for completing a permanent repair.

Check the finished scope before final payment

Walk through the agreed repair areas with the contractor. Compare the work with the marked scope and approved samples, and request photographs of areas you cannot inspect from the ground. Record unfinished items and agree on their completion dates.

Retain the signed contract, change approvals, receipts, completion photographs, and warranty terms. Ask whom to contact if you notice a problem and what information they need to assess it.

Historical days with freezing lows at Chicago O'Hare

Choose the next step for your masonry project

Your hiring checklist

1. Prepare ground-level photographs and a short description of the problem.
2. Identify the person or association authorized to approve the work.
3. Request the contracting business's credentials and insurance documentation.
4. Have bidders mark their proposed repair boundaries.
5. Resolve approval responsibilities before ordering materials.
6. Compare inclusions, exclusions, payment stages, and change procedures.
7. Keep completion photographs and written warranty terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a directory listing tell me which mason to hire?

Use Chicago's active mason directory to check license information. Choose a contractor after reviewing their proposed scope, insurance documentation, comparable references, and contract terms. No particular business is endorsed here. [1]

Does landmark review apply only to individual landmarks?

The Commission also reviews proposed alterations affecting properties in landmark districts through the permit process. If that describes your property, discuss your repair proposal with preservation staff before committing to exterior changes. [2]

How should I budget for masonry repairs?

Obtain itemized bids after a site visit. Ask each bidder to price the same boundaries and explain access costs, preparation, materials, cleanup, and exclusions. Resolve scope differences before choosing on price.

Can a contractor give me a firm November start date?

Ask for a proposed date with written postponement conditions based on the forecast and material requirements. Use the historical freezing-low chart as planning context; it cannot establish suitable work dates or conditions at your property. [3]