Stonework done badly ages badly. Repointing with the wrong mortar causes more damage than it prevents. A chimney stack repaired by someone who doesn’t understand traditional masonry can look wrong for decades. In this part of Wiltshire and Somerset, where Cotswold stone, Bath stone and traditional lime construction are part of the fabric of the area, getting the right craftsman for stonework genuinely matters.
Phil Markides has spent 20 years working in stone — on chimney stacks, hearths, garden walls, patios, boundary features and bespoke projects. He understands the materials, the methods, and that the goal isn’t just structural soundness but a result that looks right for the building it’s part of.
Chimney Stack Repairs and Rebuilds
Chimney stacks take constant weathering punishment. Cracked pointing, spalling stone, leaning or unstable stacks — left alone, these get worse quickly. Phil repairs and rebuilds chimney stacks properly, using appropriate materials matched to the existing construction. If a stack needs to come down and be rebuilt, he’ll tell you that rather than patch something that won’t last. And because he also does chimney sweeping and fireplace installation, he understands the whole system.
Repointing
Bad repointing with the wrong mortar mix is one of the most common forms of damage to old stone buildings. Hard cement mortar on a building designed for lime mortar traps moisture, causes the stone itself to deteriorate, and looks wrong. Phil uses the correct materials for the building in front of him — not whatever’s cheapest or easiest.
Stone Hearths, Garden Walls and Patios
A stone hearth or surround fitted by Phil is a piece of craftsmanship, not a product that’s been bought and dropped in. He cuts, fits and finishes stone hearths and surrounds as part of fireplace installations and as standalone projects. He builds garden walls, boundary features, retaining walls and stone patios that last — using local stone wherever possible, built the way it should be done.
Bespoke Masonry Features
Stone water features, built-in planters, retaining walls with seating, archways and gate piers — Phil can assess and take on bespoke masonry projects across the region. See bespoke projects for more on this side of the work.
Phil covers masonry projects across Bath, Bradford-on-Avon, Corsham, Bristol, Frome, Trowbridge, Devizes, Warminster, Wells and beyond. See the full coverage area.
Have a masonry project to discuss? Get in touch for an honest conversation, or request a quote and Phil will visit to assess.
What type of mortar do you use for repointing old stone buildings?
The correct mortar for most traditional stone buildings — particularly those built before the 20th century — is a lime-based mortar, not a modern Portland cement mix. Cement mortar is harder than the surrounding stone, which means moisture that would have evaporated through the joint instead saturates the stone, leading to cracking and spalling over time. Phil assesses the existing construction and matches the mortar accordingly.
Can you repair or rebuild a leaning chimney stack?
Yes. A leaning or structurally compromised chimney stack needs prompt attention — it’s a safety issue as well as a maintenance one. Depending on the extent of the problem, this may involve repair and re-securing, or a full take-down and rebuild. Phil will assess the stack, tell you honestly what it needs, and give you a clear quotation.
Can you source local stone for new work?
Yes, where possible Phil sources stone sympathetic to the existing building and the local area. For Cotswold stone, Bath stone and similar regional materials, using the right stone makes a significant difference to how the finished work looks and weathers. He’ll discuss sourcing as part of the project planning.
My garden patio is lifting and cracking. Can you fix it?
Yes — but the right fix depends on why it’s failing. Lifting paving is usually caused by poor sub-base preparation, inadequate drainage, or incorrect bedding. Phil will assess what’s underneath before recommending a repair or relay. Patching the surface without addressing the cause just means the same problem in two years.
Our Services
Chimney Sweeping
Annual professional inspections, creosote removal, and repairing structural components to prevent fire hazards and water damage
Fireplace Installation
Traditional and contemporary fireplace fitting — stone, marble, timber and more.
Stove Installation
Wood burner and multi-fuel stove supply and installation with full commissioning.
Stone Masonry
Bespoke stonework — walls, stairs, lintels, repairs and period restoration.
Home Improvements
Patios, resin surfaces, kitchen renovations and bespoke outdoor projects.
Bespoke Projects
One-off commissions and specialist work tailored to your property.