Verified record
Typical Greater Boston range for this kind of work, from regional averages — not a quote from Tough Build Masonry. Use it to sanity-check bids, then get the real number in writing.
Not sure which you need? Start with an inspection — many reputable companies assess free, and independent assessments run up to $500.
The wall run getting the drain — a full 30×40 ft basement is about 140 ft.
Estimated range
$7,600 – $15,000
Typical waterproofing project around $11,300
Tough Build Masonry is a family-run, Melrose-based masonry contractor led by John Hanifin, whose company describes itself as run by third-generation masons serving the greater Boston area with masonry, paver patios, chimney work, and basement and foundation waterproofing. Its Massachusetts home improvement contractor registration is active, and it's a BBB Accredited Business with an A+ rating; BBB lists the company as 25 years old, dating to March 2001. Foundation and basement work is a real strength here, not just a marketing line. A 2023 review describes a persistent basement water leak resolved after a start-to-finish experience the homeowner calls exceptional, and a separate 2023 review describes leaking basement foundation walls fixed outright. Another 2023 review describes an old fieldstone foundation resealed to keep mice out, after other contractors had turned the job away as too small. Masonry and chimney work show up just as often. A 2025 review describes old brick replaced around the house and the patio redone, on the schedule the crew committed to, and a 2024 review describes a chimney repair that turned out to be more extensive than expected, with John and his crew documenting the growing scope with photos as they went. A 2022 review describes cracks filled in an older, seasoned masonry wall, finished on time and on budget, and reviews from 2024 and 2025 describe front steps, a front wall and walkway, and rebuilt front stoops. All 22 reviews on Google, spanning 2022 through 2025, are five stars, with John named personally and praised for the same things again and again: honest estimates, clear communication, and follow-through on hard, older-home masonry and foundation problems other contractors passed on. For masonry or waterproofing work in the greater Boston area, the years of consistent, specific praise make a strong case.
John is very nice person I ma very haapy to work with him He is very cordinating co operative person
Great company. Great guys
Tough Build Masonry just finished replacing all the old bricks around our house and redoing our patio. They were quick to get back to us and provided an estimate when they said they world. The began work when they said they would. John and his team were a pleasure to work with. John not only listened to our ideas, but he was able to provide feedback and suggestions. His instincts are good and his design ideas a welcome addition to the planning. His crew worked hard, were always good natured. They arrived on time, and were careful of my garden. Even though there were some unanticipated issues, John and his crew worked through them. The finished job is better than I could have hoped for. Our new walk is beautiful, but the patio is really stunning and has transformed the space into something special. We have high standards for the work we have done for us. John and his crew exceeded our exceptions and we would highly recommend them.
They are very professional, thank you John. Your work is excellent.
I am extremely grateful for John and his crew at Tough Build Masonry for the work they work they performed on my home. I had noticed that a support column on my porch had been leaning and buckling outward. Upon further investigating the issue it turned out that the extent of the damage was greater than appeared on the surface as the post had completely rotted through, the wall had pulled away from the deck and the foundation underneath had crumbled. Despite the amount of work involved, John remained honest and fair as he provided me with several options and worked with me and my budget to get the best result possible to meet both my expectations as well as his high standard of quality. I am beyond pleased with the final outcome! They managed to get the entire side of the porch torn down, the foundation properly repaired and then have it all rebuilt and tied back into the existing stairs and porch within just a few days. If you are in need of any masonry, carpentry or decking work I can't recommend Tough Build Masonry enough. They were honest, hard working and kept me in the loop throughout the entire process. I absolutely intend to call them in the future for any projects. Thank you, John!
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Certified attributes are verified against the public registry. Others are the business's own statement.
1 change recorded — last scanned Jul 5, 2026.
Active state license3.9
Praised for a rock-and-slope driveway job3.1
Roof survived a major storm intact5.0
Waterproofing work4.4
Custom stonework3.8