Hardscape & Masonry in Ely, Minnesota

Shaping Natural Beauty Into Lasting Outdoor Spaces

In the heart of northern Minnesota, where natural beauty and rugged terrain define the landscape, professionally crafted hardscape, masonry add both function and timeless charm to outdoor spaces. For over 20 years, Rock Country Masonry has delivered trusted turnkey construction and project management services, helping residents in Ely, Minnesota, and nearby areas such as Babbitt, Winton, Embarrass, and Tower create distinctive stone and masonry features tailored to the local environment.


From enduring patios to stone retaining walls that withstand the freeze-thaw cycles of St. Louis County, our work complements the scenic appeal while delivering year-round resilience. Hardscaping here isn’t just about curb appeal—it’s about weather resistance, proper drainage, and structural integrity for years to come. Whether you live near Burntside Lake, in Morse Township, or further east toward Isabella or Soudan, every hardscape or masonry element must account for the soil composition, elevation changes, and severe winters typical of this region.


Our experience ensures that the design and construction of every stone pathway, fireplace surround, or retaining structure reflect both function and beauty. Using natural stone, brick, pavers, and high-performance mortar, we match materials to the architectural style of each property—whether it’s a lakeside retreat, vacation rental, or rustic cabin in the woods. With Rock Country Masonry’s legacy of local craftsmanship and attention to detail, your outdoor space becomes a lasting investment, enhancing usability, property value, and visual harmony with scenic wilderness.

Our Hardscape & Masonry

Custom Stone Patios

Our patios are built for functionality and aesthetics, offering an ideal space for gatherings in outdoor settings. We design each patio to enhance site-specific drainage, seasonal usability, and natural surroundings. These patios add value and beauty year-round, whether for lakeside entertaining or quiet outdoor relaxation.

Retaining Walls & Erosion Control

We engineer and build stone or block retaining walls that address sloped terrain and control erosion, a common concern for properties. Proper drainage systems are integrated into each wall to manage heavy rainfall and spring runoff. Reinforced footing structures ensure long-term stability despite harsh winters and thaw cycles.

Brick & Block Masonry Structures

Brick and block masonry features—such as exterior walls, pillars, or outdoor fireplaces—bring lasting charm and structure to homes. Our expert masons select durable materials that withstand severe winters. Each structure is built with precision, ensuring both safety and aesthetic appeal.

Flagstone & Natural Stone Walkways

Hand-laid stone walkways connect outdoor spaces while adding character to wooded properties. We carefully select and set each stone to ensure long-term safety, drainage, and seamless integration with the land. Proper leveling prevents tripping hazards, while stone color and shape match the surrounding environment for a cohesive look that blends beautifully with nature.

Outdoor Kitchens & Fire Features

Extend the usability of your outdoor space with a custom-built stone fireplace, fire pit, or full outdoor kitchen. Designed to endure temperature swings and moisture, homeowners can cook, gather, and entertain outdoors for more of the year. Each project is customized to fit the client’s lifestyle.

Stone Veneer Installation

We provide stone veneer cladding for both interior and exterior applications, offering the appearance of solid stone with a lighter-weight installation—perfect for accent walls, fireplaces, or exterior facades in rural and urban areas alike. The result is a sophisticated, natural look that holds up against changing seasons while providing excellent insulation and curb appeal.

Benefits of Professional Hardscape & Masonry

Superior Craftsmanship and Durability

Professional hardscape and masonry experts bring years of experience, precision, and skill to every project. Their craftsmanship ensures structures are built to last, resisting weathering, erosion, and wear.

Custom Design Tailored to Your Property

Experts collaborate closely to design features that complement the architecture and landscape. Professional designs enhance both function and beauty, whether it’s a custom patio, retaining wall, or stone walkway. The result is a unique outdoor space that reflects personal style and maximizes property appeal.

Increased Property Value and Curb Appeal

High-quality hardscape and masonry installations significantly boost property value. Stone features, paver patios, and elegant retaining walls add sophistication and charm, making the property more attractive to potential buyers. Enhanced curb appeal often leads to higher resale prices.

Proper Drainage and Structural Integrity

Professionals ensure that all hardscape and masonry projects include correct grading, drainage solutions, and foundation work. This prevents common issues like water pooling, soil erosion, and structural shifting, resulting in a safer, more functional outdoor environment.

Efficient Project Management and Timely Completion

Experienced contractors manage projects with organized scheduling, skilled labor, and access to the right equipment. This efficiency minimizes delays and disruptions, allowing homeowners to enjoy their upgraded outdoor spaces sooner and without unnecessary stress.

Compliance with Local Codes and Standards

Professional masons understand local building codes, permit requirements, and safety regulations. Their knowledge ensures that all work is compliant, reducing the risk of fines, legal issues, or future complications. This provides peace of mind for property owners.

Bring Timeless Strength to the Landscape

Hardscape and masonry features are more than decorative—they are essential for outdoor living. With dense forest, uneven terrain, and long winters, properties benefit from expert-built structures that provide both beauty and purpose. Whether you’re stabilizing a hillside with a retaining wall or crafting an inviting lakeside patio, quality materials and knowledgeable execution are critical.

At Rock Country Masonry, over three decades of hands-on experience have shown that the best results come from combining function with form in the Ely, Minnesota, and surrounding region, such as Babbitt, Tower, and Winton. Each stone is laid with care, each surface graded with intention, and every project aligned with the property’s needs and environment. We understand the subtle changes in soil type and know how to prepare for frost heave or spring thaw runoff.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How does the local climate affect masonry and hardscape work?

    Northern Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles require specific materials and installation techniques to prevent cracking, shifting, or erosion-related damage over time. Without proper base preparation and drainage, structures may fail prematurely. Our methods account for soil movement and moisture retention, ensuring long-lasting results even during harsh winters.

  • What materials are best suited for Ely’s environment?

    Natural stone, concrete pavers, and high-grade mortar are ideal for their durability and resistance to moisture and temperature extremes in Ely and nearby areas. We carefully select materials that blend with the local landscape while delivering exceptional performance against snow, ice, and seasonal changes.

  • Do you handle site prep and grading?

    Yes, we manage all site preparation, including excavation, grading, and drainage planning to ensure a stable and long-lasting result. Proper grading minimizes water pooling, prevents erosion, and supports structural stability. This foundation work is vital on sloped or heavily wooded Northwoods properties.

  • How long does a typical hardscape project take?

    Depending on the scope, most projects are completed within 1–3 weeks, including preparation, installation, and clean-up, weather permitting. Larger or more intricate designs may take additional time, but careful scheduling ensures minimal disruption while maintaining quality and precision at every stage.

  • Is a permit required for hardscape or masonry work?

    Some structural features may require permits in St. Louis County and nearby municipalities. We assist in determining and acquiring necessary approvals. By managing the permit process, we ensure compliance with local building codes, zoning regulations, and environmental guidelines that protect your property.

  • Can stone features be added to older cabins or historic homes?

    Yes, we specialize in integrating masonry into older structures, ensuring style compatibility while upgrading performance and aesthetics. Careful planning preserves the charm of historic homes while enhancing their functionality, safety, and energy efficiency for modern living.

  • Do you offer year-round service?

    While most outdoor work occurs in spring through fall, planning, consultations, and interior stone veneer work are available year-round. Winter months allow time for design consultations, material selection, and permit processing, so projects can start promptly when weather permits.

  • What areas do you serve around Ely?

    We serve Ely, Babbitt, Winton, Embarrass, Tower, Soudan, Morse, and surrounding townships within a 30-mile radius in northeastern Minnesota. Our local expertise ensures that every project is customized to the area’s soil conditions, topography, and environmental challenges unique to northern Minnesota

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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