The Brick and Stone Guys

For clarify, the 'coping stones' were pre-cast concrete chimney 'caps', but for two partially-exposed, non-functional chimney stacks that ended below the roofline (1/2 inside the interior wall, 1/2 outside). Incline and drip-edge on the stones allows water to fall clear from the wall below, better protecting the mortar from eroding. (this is what Shams had to tuckpoint, showing the need for a coping stone).

I should also say that 9/10 is pretty good for me. 10/10 would have to be a 'chef's kiss' job.

Shams was professional and courteous throughout our dealings, and while the job was straightforward, it was not easy, requiring minor work in a hot attic and maneuvering around a chimney stack only 3 inches away from a neighbouring chimney. Additionally, Shams found himself as the 'clean-up' contractor after the previous one botched part of the job.

Shams presented a clear, detailed scope of work with a reasonable price. He used scaffolding where he could fit it (this is not a given with contractors, unfortunately), and kept communication high through his two days with us, including a number of pictures, which are so important in communicating problems and solutions. He made a point of using a tie-off, ladder anchoring, gloves, mask etc., Shows he takes safety more seriously than many of his competitors and makes you feel more assured that someone won't be seriously injured at your house. He is clear on his marketing that he is registered with the Better Business Bureau, which is a great sign. No reviews yet, but also no complaints. He also added a tint to his mortar for tuckpointing to better match the mortar of our old house, which was a nice touch.

Shams was diplomatic in proposing some better ways of doing the work and honoured what he could in terms of adding customer requests such as slope, a bit of insulation, and closing unexpected holes in the masonry. These may seem like minor things but money is tight for most people now and fixing things right is more important than ever. He didn't seem overly rushed either, taking the time to ensure the next contractor (fascia) can do their work.

On the constructive side, he did leave a few new bricks behind and some demo'd material around including fragments in the attic, but not a lot. I think he just forgot the new bricks (they are still here if you are reading this Shams).