Wight Stonemasonry

Wight Stonemasonry Ltd is a company deeply rooted in the traditions of Isle of Wight, established in 1990 by two passionate stonemasons, David Hailstone and David Crouch. Driven by a shared commitment to craftsmanship and a love for the island's rich heritage, they have dedicated themselves to preserving and celebrating the artistry of stonework.

Our Beginnings

David Hailstone embarked on his stonemasonry journey as an apprentice, working for the Department of the Environment, where he honed his skills at the historic Appuldurcombe House. He furthered his expertise at the esteemed Building Crafts Training School in London, achieving both City & Guilds in Stonemasonry and the Worshipful Company of Carpenter's Certificate of Merit during his apprenticeship. In recognition of his exceptional talent, David was awarded the coveted Craftsmen Competition for Stonemasonry by the Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission for England in 1985. His work on various Island English Heritage sites led him to cross paths with David Crouch, who similarly followed in his father's footsteps.

After a stint at Weymouth College, David Crouch earned his City & Guilds in Stonemasonry, solidifying his foundation in the craft. Together, these two skilled artisans joined forces, establishing Wight Stonemasonry Ltd.

A Legacy of Expertise

Since its inception, Wight Stonemasonry Ltd has built an impressive reputation for its expertise in both monumental and architectural masonry. The company's dedication to preserving the Isle of Wight's rich heritage has led to their involvement in the restoration of many of the Island's churches and historic buildings, encompassing a wide range of projects from minor repairs to major renovations. Their meticulous attention to detail, coupled with their mastery of traditional techniques, has ensured the longevity and beauty of these cherished structures.

The company's portfolio also extends to the creation of bespoke designs for a variety of applications, from headstones and memorials to carvings for private residences.

Our Dedicated Team

Wight Stonemasonry Ltd boasts a skilled team of stonemasons, each contributing their expertise to deliver exceptional results. Key members include Danny Newbery, a seasoned banker and fixer mason, and Andy Jacobs, an experienced fixer mason with over a decade of dedication to the company. They are joined by Dave Morris, another skilled fixer mason, who further strengthens the team's abilities.

Both David Hailstone and David Crouch remain actively involved in the company, ensuring that the tradition of craftsmanship and passion for stonemasonry are passed down through generations.

Services Offered

Wight Stonemasonry Ltd is proud to offer a comprehensive suite of services, tailored to meet the diverse needs of their clientele.

Monumental Masonry

The company specializes in creating bespoke and timeless memorials that honour and commemorate loved ones. They offer a wide selection of materials, including Portland Limestone, Italian Marble, Welsh Slate, and various coloured granites, allowing clients to choose the perfect stone to reflect the individuality of their loved one.

Wight Stonemasonry Ltd takes pride in providing a complete service, from initial design consultation to the final installation of the memorial in the cemetery. They handle all necessary applications and permissions with local authorities, ensuring a smooth and seamless process for their clients.

Furthermore, they offer restoration and cleaning services for existing memorials, helping to preserve these cherished tributes for generations to come.

Restoration of Headstones and Monuments

Deterioration and weathering take their toll on even the sturdiest memorials over time. Wight Stonemasonry Ltd recognizes the importance of preserving these poignant testaments to life, and they offer a comprehensive restoration service.

Their skilled stone masons meticulously assess the condition of each memorial, identifying areas requiring attention and crafting a detailed report outlining their recommendations and associated costs. They employ traditional techniques and high-quality materials to ensure that the restored memorial is both structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing.

From removing lichen and grime to repairing cracks and replacing damaged sections, Wight Stonemasonry Ltd leaves no stone unturned in their pursuit of restoring these memorials to their former glory.

Architectural Masonry

Wight Stonemasonry Ltd brings the same dedication to craftsmanship and historical accuracy to their architectural masonry projects. Their expertise extends to the restoration and repair of historic buildings, ensuring the preservation of unique architectural features.

Their services encompass:

*Carving and replacing stonework

*Repairing damaged lintels, arches, and window surrounds

*Matching existing stone to ensure authenticity in repairs

*Utilizing traditional methods and natural limes for restorations

Additional bespoke work

Beyond traditional masonry, Wight Stonemasonry Ltd's creative spirit inspires them to undertake a variety of bespoke projects. They design and carve unique fireplace surrounds, house signs, commemorative plaques, and ornaments, adding a touch of handcrafted artistry to clients' homes and spaces.