Why is stonework so labor intensive?
Stonework is probably the most labor involved construction in the home. One pallet of stone typically weighs 2500-3000 pounds and a 100 square foot area done in stone takes 1 1/2 pallets and another 2000 pounds (approximately) of mortar! There is also a great amount of set-up and clean-up involved which can take an entire day. Thirty to forty batches of mortar mixed, stone cut to specific dimensions and/or artistically broken are just a few of the many difficult steps involved when working with stone. This is very different than the stucco/stick-on cultured stone. Therefore, the quality, hardwork, and outcome are reflected in the price of the job.