For anyone who owns a house in a wet climate, keeping the bricks and stonework from being invaded by water is vitally important. In Seattle masonry construction is at the mercy of the weather which will crack and damage surfaces. With masonry construction Seattle weather patterns play havoc because of the high levels of rain that falls each year. Once the pointing is water sodden or cracked, water will leak into the building and seep onto inner walls. Sometimes when this damage occurs there is a need to replace a stone that has deteriorated beyond repair. However, some artisans will find it difficult to match up the stone because it has been there for so long. Merely sliding in a new piece will make it stick out like a sore thumb so clever masons will be able to find stones or bricks that have been reclaimed from old buildings to make sure that they match as closely as possible.

But the artistry of these masons is not limited to mending cracks and leaks. Many will be able to turn their hand to some wonderful designs, like outside walls, outside fire places or walls used to hold back the garden. If these are built from natural stone they will have a rustic look to them which is very much in vogue at present. In wine cellars, stone will keep the temperature even which is a plus point for anyone keeping and storing good wines. But when this same stone is used for footpaths or outside fire places, it carries the theme right through the whole property it adds some value to the place. The beauty of natural stone is enhanced by clever design work and many people have taken to it of late in the name of nostalgia.

Of course, man made bricks have their place, but they do tend to look rather square and regimented which is not so attractive. Even chimneys in days gone by were made from natural stone and these are often the only thing left standing after fires or floods. This will give some testament to the solidity and strength of the material, as well as the artistry and cleverness of those who built them in the first place.

Footpaths look particularly beautiful when they are made from natural materials and they add a country feel to the back yard. Even rockeries would not be complete without a well placed stone or two to hold plants and lighting effects in the right way. Indeed, these masons can design practically anything around the home or garden with the input of the owner to the fore. Even waterfalls or fountains grace some homes and it is all because these fellows know how to handle stone. Of course, modern plumbing methods are incorporated, but with a few well placed rocks or stones, one would think that the fountain or waterfall was there long before the house was.

It is important, however, to make sure that the mason knows how to handle the stone properly and which particular kind would look good in the setting. Locally available stone will always be preferred since then it is likely that it will match other residences in the vicinity.