M J Dance - Artisan Bricklayer

Artisan bricklayer with 24 years of experience. Specialising in quality, architectural brickwork, including extensions, patios and outdoor areas, garden walls, chimneys and gate piers.

Artisan bricklayer with 24 years of experience. Specialising in projects requiring quality and architectural brickwork, including extensions, patios and outdoor areas, garden walls, chimneys and gate piers.

Experience working on traditional and listed buildings and properties in conservation areas.

Very happy to work directly with clients or via a contractor. Pricing is based per project.

ABOUT

34 years working in the construction industry. In the early days I was involved in projects such as the County Hall renovation on the South Bank (creating what is now the London Aquarium), University of Surrey expansion, Farnborough airport expansion, Pyestock National Gas Turbine Establishment (once iconic site of British Engineering in Fleet, Hampshire) and the M5 Services at Reading.

I spent two years in Germany, spending time in Larg, which is twinned with Horsham in Surrey. Here I worked within the local style of building and bricklaying, which was interesting to learn.

I moved on to working with small contractors focusing on one-off new build houses, home extensions mostly in Surrey villages, so maintaining the character of the existing building is very important, especially in conservation areas. I also worked on large new build properties in Weybridge, where some of the houses required stilts to prevent river flooding. I am also experienced in remodelling projects on recent properties and those which are based on the floor plan of an older building no longer in existence.

I have knowledge of current building regulations and work alongside structural engineers and architects. Clients often request my advice in spatial planning when considering layouts to understand what is possible and what space will be available so they can consider their options. I have excellent interpretation skills of drawings and plans.

Sometimes initial surveys ground works uncover unexpected issues. These can always be resolved with some creative thinking, based on knowledge and vast experience. The aim is to complete each project so that clients are delighted with the end result.

I pride myself on the quality of my work, with most of my projects coming via recommendation. I love what I do and enjoy projects that embrace my creativity, such as one-off garden projects and interesting architecture, but am just as happy at home with a straightforward brick wall!

I generally work in the areas surrounding Guildford, Farnham, Godalming, Farnborough, Woking, Haslemere, Alton, Yatley, Sandhurst, Fleet, Liphook, Aldershot, Camberley, Bagshot, Windlesham. Full public liability insurance.

If you have a project in mind, please give me a ring, I will be delighted to hear from you.