Concrete Services in Ely, Minnesota

Precision Concrete Solutions Backed by Decades of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, Rock Country Masonry delivers expert concrete services throughout Ely, Minnesota, and its surrounding communities, including Burntside, Winton, and Tower. Whether building a cabin, installing a slab foundation, or finishing a patio, our work reflects the durability, craftsmanship, and climate-aware planning essential to the region. Concrete isn’t just a foundation—it’s the backbone of residential, commercial, and municipal structures.


The demands of our regional environment—long winters, repeated freeze-thaw cycles, and high moisture levels—mean every concrete pour must be done with intent and precision. That’s where our turnkey project management expertise stands out. From site prep and soil grading to curing and finishing, every phase is executed with localized insight. Clients from across the region rely on us for reliable timelines, honest guidance, and lasting results.


At Rock Country Masonry, we know that no two sites are the same. Lakefront cottages need footings that are different from those of downtown storefronts. Driveways wear differently from walkways. That’s why our approach starts with a detailed site evaluation and ends with structure-specific finishes built to thrive in Northern Minnesota’s rugged terrain. Whether you're planning a new garage slab, replacing a crumbling sidewalk, or adding stamped concrete to elevate curb appeal, our solutions are tailored to your property and our climate. Trust the region’s concrete specialists for long-lasting performance with every pour.

Our Concrete Services

Concrete Driveways & Approaches

Our concrete driveways are tailored to withstand the climate and traffic patterns. We provide proper grading and reinforcement for longevity, aesthetic appeal, and smooth vehicle access.

 Each driveway is designed with load-bearing calculations to accommodate daily vehicle use, heavy snowfall, and plowing. We carefully plan slope and drainage to prevent water pooling that can cause premature cracking.

Foundations & Slabs

We pour level, reinforced concrete bases to serve as structurally sound supports for residential and commercial builds. Whether building cabins or commercial structures, we ensure precise excavation, vapor barriers, rebar placement, and anchor bolt installation. Our slabs are built to support everything from storage barns to garages, pole buildings, and lakefront homes.

Stamped & Decorative Concrete

Custom-stamped and stained concrete brings visual interest to patios, walkways, or pool decks. Patterns replicate stone, brick, or tile for high-end looks without high-maintenance materials. We offer multiple patterns, colors, and textures ideal for lake homes or seasonal cabins.

Sidewalks & Walkways

Durable, slip-resistant sidewalks enhance safety and mobility for homes and public spaces. Walkways are graded to handle water runoff, preventing ice buildup, which is common in snowy seasons. ADA-compliant ramps and transitions provide accessibility for public spaces and businesses. These concrete paths improve both appearance and safety for neighborhoods and visitors alike.

Concrete Repair & Resurfacing

Cracked or deteriorating concrete doesn't always need replacement. We offer expert patching, resurfacing, and joint sealing to extend the life of aging surfaces across Isabella and the surrounding region. Our evaluation process identifies underlying issues like subbase failure, moisture infiltration, or salt damage from winter road treatments.

Retaining Walls & Steps

Concrete retaining walls and steps provide both form and function. Each retaining wall is reinforced to withstand lateral pressure from heavy snows, saturated soils, and hillside loads. Integrated drainage solutions minimize hydrostatic pressure, ensuring long-term stability. We tailor every project to fit unique terrain challenges.

Benefits of Professional Concrete Services

Expertise Ensures Structural Integrity

Professional concrete contractors bring years of hands-on experience, technical knowledge, and industry certifications. This ensures that every project meets precise strength, durability, and safety standards. Proper mixing, curing, and installation techniques help prevent cracks, settling, and premature wear, delivering long-lasting results.

High-Quality Materials and Equipment

Professionals have access to premium-grade concrete mixes, reinforcement materials, and modern equipment. This combination allows for stronger finishes, smoother surfaces, and better resistance to environmental factors like freeze-thaw cycles, moisture, and heavy loads. Quality materials directly impact the lifespan and appearance of the finished product.

Cost Efficiency Over Time

While DIY or low-cost options might seem appealing initially, mistakes in preparation or installation often lead to costly repairs down the road. Professionals minimize waste, avoid rework, and ensure that the job is done right first time, saving clients significant money over the structure’s lifetime.

Time-Saving and Efficient Process

Experienced crews work systematically and efficiently, completing projects within the agreed timeline without compromising quality. Their ability to foresee challenges and plan accordingly prevents delays, ensuring timely completion, whether it's a residential driveway or a large commercial slab.

Customization and Aesthetic Appeal

Professional concrete services offer a wide range of customization options — from decorative stamping and staining to precise color matching and custom finishes. This allows property owners to achieve both functional strength and visual appeal, adding significant value to the property.

Compliance with Local Codes and Standards

Every region has building codes and regulations related to concrete work. Professionals stay updated on these requirements and handle the necessary permits and inspections. This ensures that the finished project is legally compliant and safe for long-term use.

Enduring Strength for Homes and Businesses

Concrete is more than a material—it’s a commitment to structure, safety, and longevity. Homeowners know the difference between concrete that simply fills a form and concrete designed to last through decades of snow, thaw, and wear. That’s why choosing an experienced local provider matters. At Rock Country Masonry, combining 20 years of hands-on experience in Ely, Minnesota, and the neighboring Winton, Tower, Babbitt, and Embarrass with comprehensive project management and deep regional knowledge creates enduring results. 

Our concrete services are designed not only for function but also to elevate the visual and practical quality of your property. From formwork and reinforcement to smooth finishes and weather-resilient curing, each step reflects the standards of excellence we’ve upheld for decades. Don't settle for out-of-town contractors unfamiliar with local conditions when investing in concrete services. Choose a team that treats every yard of concrete as a foundation for something greater—strength, structure, and stability for generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What makes concrete installation different in Ely, Minnesota?

    Ely’s freeze-thaw climate requires special considerations such as air-entrained concrete mixes, thicker footings, and moisture-resistant curing practices for optimal durability. Without these adjustments, concrete can crack, shift, or deteriorate rapidly. Local soil conditions near Winton and Babbitt also demand proper site preparation to prevent frost heaving.

  • Can concrete be poured during the winter months in Minnesota?

    Yes, with proper heating techniques, insulation blankets, and additives, winter concrete pours are possible in Ely and nearby areas, though summer installations are more cost-effective. Winter pours require additional monitoring of curing temperatures and timing to ensure strength isn’t compromised by freezing conditions common from November through March.

  • How long does it take for concrete to cure fully?

    While concrete sets within 24-48 hours, full curing and strength development typically occur over 28 days, especially critical for heavy-use surfaces like driveways or footings. In Ely’s cooler spring and fall temperatures, extra curing time and moisture retention measures may be necessary to reach full compressive strength.

  • Is stamped concrete slippery during icy conditions?

    Not necessarily. We add non-slip additives to stamped or decorative concrete, especially for outdoor installations in areas like Embarrass or Fall Lake, where ice is common. Textured patterns and proper slope also assist in reducing slip risks during snowy and icy conditions typical in northeastern Minnesota.

  • How often should concrete surfaces be sealed in this region?

    For surfaces in Ely’s climate, resealing every 2–3 years helps protect against moisture, salt, and wear, especially for exposed or decorative concrete installations. Driveways and patios near lakefront properties may require more frequent sealing due to higher moisture exposure and winter deicing chemicals.

  • Do you offer concrete demolition and replacement?

    Yes, we safely remove deteriorating concrete, including sidewalks, pads, or driveways, and replace them with code-compliant, climate-resilient solutions. Our demolition services include debris removal and subbase evaluation to ensure the new pour is stable and long-lasting, even under northern Minnesota’s challenging conditions.

  • What type of reinforcement is used in concrete foundations?

    We use steel rebar or wire mesh reinforcement in foundations to improve tensile strength, reduce cracking, and enhance long-term structural integrity in Minnesota soils. For larger projects near areas like Tower or Soudan, we may also incorporate specialized anchoring systems to accommodate soil movement and frost depth.

  • Can you match new concrete to existing older surfaces?

    We carefully color-match and texture new concrete to blend with existing elements whenever possible, especially for repairs or additions around historic homes or cabins. While exact matches depend on the age and condition of existing concrete, advanced staining and finishing techniques allow seamless integration for most properties.

HAPPY CUSTOMERS!

What our customers say

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Beautiful work. Completed ahead of schedule. Wonderful to work with. Definitely recommend Patrick and his team.

Catherine P.

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Great Company. I've worked with Patrick on several projects and they've always turned out amazing.

Peter C.

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Pat was very professional and easy to work with. He communicated and coordinated well with the other groups (painters and contractors) that were working on my building as well. His work was expertly done and was only delayed because of weather - out of his control. To make up for the weather he worked many long days to make sure my project was finished on time. Highly recommend giving him a call! Feel free to send me a message if you want more details.

Joe T.

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