Custom Natural Stone Masonry
Create stunning, one-of-a-kind features with custom natural stone masonry that adds timeless beauty and lasting value to your property.
The Timeless Appeal of Natural Stone
Natural stone has been a premium building material for thousands of years, and for good reason. Each piece of stone is unique, with colors, patterns, and textures that cannot be replicated by manufactured materials. When you choose natural stone for your home or property, you are investing in something authentic and permanent. Stone installations done correctly will outlast almost every other building material, often looking better with age as the stone develops character and patina.
Working with natural stone requires specialized skills that most contractors simply do not have. You cannot just stack stones and hope they stay in place. Each piece needs to be carefully selected, shaped, and positioned to create a stable structure that can withstand weather and time. The mortar work must be precise, the drainage needs to be planned correctly, and the overall design has to balance aesthetics with structural integrity. This is craftsmanship that takes years to master.
We specialize in custom natural stone masonry throughout Montgomery, AL. Our team has the experience and artistic eye needed to create stunning stone features that enhance your property's beauty and value. Whether you envision a grand stone entrance, an elegant garden wall, or a custom fireplace, we work with you to bring your ideas to life using the finest natural stone materials available.
Natural Stone Options for Every Project
Different types of natural stone offer different looks, textures, and practical characteristics. Here are the most popular options we work with:
Fieldstone and River Rock
Fieldstone and river rock give you that natural, rustic look that feels like it has always been part of the landscape. These rounded stones come in various earth tones and create a casual, organic appearance. We use them for retaining walls, garden borders, decorative columns, and water features. The irregular shapes mean each installation is truly one of a kind. River rock works especially well for areas where you want a softer, more natural aesthetic rather than formal, structured lines.
Flagstone and Slate
Flagstone and slate are flat stones that work beautifully for patios, walkways, and step surfaces. They come in shades of gray, tan, red, and blue, often with natural color variations within each piece. These stones can be laid tightly together for a formal look or spaced apart with grass or gravel between them for a more casual appearance. Flagstone is durable enough for heavy foot traffic and develops a beautiful patina over time. It stays cooler than concrete in summer heat, making it comfortable to walk on barefoot.
Limestone and Bluestone
Limestone offers a classic, elegant look with consistent coloring that ranges from creamy white to warm tan. It cuts cleanly, so we can create precise edges and uniform patterns. Bluestone has a distinctive blue-gray color that adds sophistication to any project. Both work well for formal installations like entrance steps, pool coping, or architectural details. These stones are dense and durable, standing up well to weather and use.
Granite and Quartzite
For maximum durability and a polished, upscale look, granite and quartzite are hard to beat. These extremely hard stones resist scratching, staining, and weather damage better than any other natural stone. They come in a wide range of colors with dramatic patterns and veining. We use them for countertops in outdoor kitchens, hearths for fireplaces, and architectural accents where you want something truly special. While these stones cost more than other options, they deliver unmatched longevity and visual impact.
Popular Natural Stone Applications:
- Custom fireplaces and fireplace surrounds
- Retaining walls and garden terraces
- Entrance columns and pillars
- Patios and outdoor living spaces
- Outdoor kitchen counters and bar tops
- Water features and decorative walls
The Art and Science of Stone Masonry
Creating beautiful, lasting stonework requires both artistic vision and technical expertise. Here is how we approach custom stone projects:
Design and Material Selection
We start every project by understanding your vision and the practical requirements of your space. We discuss different stone options, show you samples, and help you choose materials that fit your aesthetic goals and budget. Stone selection is critical because different stones have different characteristics, colors, and working properties. We consider factors like how the stone will weather over time, how it complements your existing architecture, and how it will be used. Once you choose your stone, we create a detailed plan that shows the layout, dimensions, and any special features you want included.
Foundation and Structural Preparation
Natural stone is heavy, and it needs proper support to remain stable for decades. We prepare foundations based on the specific requirements of your project. This might mean excavating and pouring concrete footings for a retaining wall, creating a compacted gravel base for a patio, or building a structural support for a fireplace. We also install drainage systems where needed to prevent water from undermining the stone or causing frost damage. This preparation work is not glamorous, but it is absolutely essential for long-term success. Skipping these steps leads to settling, cracking, and eventual failure of the stonework.
Skilled Installation and Finishing
Installing natural stone is where craftsmanship really shows. Each stone is positioned carefully, often shaped or trimmed to fit perfectly with its neighbors. We select and orient stones to show their best faces while ensuring proper structural integrity. Mortar joints are tooled to the right depth and finish, creating clean lines that enhance rather than distract from the stone's natural beauty. For dry-stack walls, we position stones so their weight and friction hold everything together without mortar. The final step is cleaning and sealing when appropriate to protect the stone and enhance its color. The result is a custom stone feature that looks like it was meant to be exactly where it is, built to last for generations. If you are interested in other outdoor stonework, we also offer stone veneer installation for home exteriors.
Why Invest in Natural Stone
Natural stone costs more upfront than manufactured alternatives, but it delivers value that goes far beyond the initial investment. Stone installations require virtually no maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. They do not fade, rot, or deteriorate like other materials. A stone patio or wall can last for centuries with minimal care, while wood decks need regular staining and replacement, and concrete eventually cracks and degrades.
Stone also adds significant value to your property. Real estate agents know that custom stonework is a premium feature that appeals to buyers. A well-designed stone entrance, fireplace, or patio can set your home apart in a competitive market and justify a higher asking price. But more importantly, you get to enjoy the beauty and functionality of your stone features every day you live there. There is something special about natural stone that manufactured materials just cannot match.
Working with experienced stone masons makes all the difference in the final result. We have spent years developing the skills needed to work with natural stone effectively. We know how to select quality materials, design installations that work with your property's unique characteristics, and build structures that are both beautiful and built to last. Every stone project we complete is custom work that reflects your personal style and our commitment to craftsmanship. When you choose natural stone from MGT Montgomery Masonry, you are choosing quality that will outlast trends and stand the test of time. We serve Montgomery and surrounding areas with the same dedication to excellence that has made us a trusted name in masonry services. Looking for other custom work? Explore our custom patio services for more outdoor living options.
Ready to Create Something Beautiful?
Schedule a consultation to discuss your custom natural stone project. We serve Montgomery and surrounding areas with expert stone masonry design and installation.
Call (334) 230-3493Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about custom natural stone masonry in Montgomery, AL: