Historic Masonry Hunterdon County

Tucked into the rolling hills and old towns of Hunterdon County are buildings that tell stories—stories of early America, of craftsmanship that has stood the test of time. At R&L Masonry, we don’t just work on these historic structures—we protect them. With three generations of hands-on experience, our team specializes in correcting and restoring historic and period masonry, bringing new strength to old stone while preserving its original beauty.

Respecting the Character of the Past

Historic buildings are more than bricks and mortar. Each one reflects a period’s unique building practices and materials, from hand-chiseled stone walls to lime-based mortars. Restoring these structures the right way takes more than skill—it takes a deep understanding of the history behind the architecture. That’s where we come in.

At R&L Masonry, we approach every project with care and purpose. Whether it’s a Federal-style home near Flemington or a pre-Civil War barn outside Lambertville, our goal is the same: protect the building’s authenticity while ensuring its longevity. That means no shortcuts, no modern substitutes that don’t belong, and no guesswork.

What Makes Historic Masonry Work Unique

Correcting historic masonry is not the same as patching a modern brick wall. Materials age differently, and past repairs—especially those done without the right knowledge—can actually make things worse. We frequently encounter buildings where the wrong kind of mortar was used, causing bricks to crack or shift. In other cases, moisture has crept in behind stonework, weakening what once held firm for over a century.

We take the time to understand what each structure needs. From analyzing old mortar formulas to sourcing period-appropriate bricks or stones, we rebuild what’s broken without compromising what’s original. And we always follow local preservation guidelines to make sure the work aligns with Hunterdon County’s standards for historic integrity.

Tailored Solutions for Older Buildings

Every historic building is different, and so are its problems. That’s why our first step is always a thorough site evaluation. We don’t just glance at the cracks—we study them. We look at how the materials were laid, how they’ve weathered, and what past repairs were done. Only then do we create a repair plan that fits the building, not the other way around.

Our correction work often includes:

Repointing with custom-matched lime mortar
Replacing damaged bricks with historically accurate units
Repairing or stabilizing stone foundations
Correcting sloped or bowing walls
Removing improper previous repairs and replacing them with authentic techniques

Sometimes it’s as simple as restoring a section of deteriorating chimney. Other times, it’s a full wall that needs to be taken down and rebuilt from its original stones. Whatever the case, we always put quality first.

Trusted Across Hunterdon County

From old stone homes in Clinton to historic storefronts in High Bridge, we’ve worked on some of the most cherished buildings in the region. Our reputation has been built project by project, one restoration at a time. Property owners know that when they hire R&L Masonry, they’re getting a partner who respects the building just as much as they do.

Many of our clients come to us after seeing our work firsthand—on a neighbor’s colonial house, a restored fireplace in a historic church, or a newly repaired stone retaining wall along a township building. It’s not just about fixing what’s broken; it’s about making it look like it was never touched.

Why Period-Correct Repairs Matter

There’s a big difference between a quick fix and a proper restoration. Period masonry correction takes time and patience. It also requires an eye for detail. Using the wrong type of mortar, for instance, can trap moisture inside walls, leading to even more damage down the road. Or using machine-cut brick on an 1800s farmhouse can completely alter the building’s character.

We focus on doing the job right, not just fast. That means sourcing brick and stone that matches the size, color, and texture of the original. It means understanding the tools and methods used when the building was first constructed. And it means honoring the craftsmanship of those who came before us.

Why Choose R&L Masonry

There are plenty of masonry contractors out there—but very few who specialize in historic correction. At R&L Masonry, it’s what we do best. Our family has spent decades working on the kinds of buildings most others avoid: old, delicate, irreplaceable structures that require a steady hand and a sharp eye.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We believe in rolling up our sleeves, respecting the history behind the stone, and delivering work that stands the test of time. That’s why homeowners, municipalities, and preservation groups across Hunterdon County continue to trust us with their most important properties.

Start Your Restoration the Right Way

If you own a historic home or building that needs masonry correction, don’t leave it to chance. R&L Masonry is here to help you protect your investment, preserve your property’s value, and keep its history alive.

Give us a call or reach out online to schedule a consultation. We’ll walk you through your options, explain what your structure needs, and develop a plan that aligns with your goals and your budget. At R&L Masonry, we treat every project like it's our own—and every brick like it tells a story worth preserving.