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As a leading member of the UK Cast Stone Association, family owned Haddonstone has a reputation for its excellent cast stonework, and works with installers and developers on prestigious projects around the country. 

Here we meet one such installer, Gregory Cane, managing director of G C Stonework.

G C Stonework offers a complete tailored service to its clients, providing step by step support throughout every project. With over 30 years of experience at its disposal, the company offers a full range of stonework services, from the repair and restoration of existing stonework to the installation of porticos, balustrading, door surrounds, and hard landscaping, and lots more. As an approved Haddonstone installer, Greg has used Haddonstone’s products on many prestigious projects.  

Over the years, our team has gained valuable working techniques which have enabled us to offer a total package, whether that is for a complete house build, a bespoke stone installation, a water feature or for our steam cleaning service. Steam cleaning has become popular over the last five years, with the end results looking great. We travel all over the country and abroad to undertake all of these works. We always say to our clients, if a drawing is provided, we will work with the client and a Haddonstone team member to achieve your dream project.

GC Stonework has worked with Haddonstone for years. What is so special about your partnership?

I think one of the main factors is trust; we have been installing Haddonstone products for around 19 years now.

The feedback that Haddonstone receives from clients is wonderful.  We take care and pride on the service we provide to achieve that quality on every project.

What changes have you seen and experienced within the stone industry over the years?

We have been installing cast stone products for a long time now and we are finding that people are, today, willing to spend that little extra on quality cast stone. Cast stone is a superb alternative to natural stone for a number of reasons.

For example, cast stone has a relatively quick turnaround in manufacturing; it is also around 4-5 times cheaper than natural stone. Over the last 2-3 years, we have started to install more and more wet cast products; this is down to the material used.  It is non-porous; the colour is maintained throughout the years, and it is easy to clean, making it a great all year-round choice of material.

What are the main considerations a client should consider when choosing cast stonework for their property or landscape?

There are many factors to consider before choosing the right Haddonstone product. Firstly, Haddonstone offers standard products throughout the brochure, as well as a bespoke service which can be tailored to special requirements. The portfolio includes a range of colours for architectural stonework as well as garden ornaments and statues. Haddonstone provides three materials, dry cast, wet cast and TecLite and provides sample packs for each colour and material.

A major factor for me is the overall appearance of the stone.  How will stone weather in years to come?  Do you want it clean and fresh or the weathered look?  Different properties suit their own individual requirements.  Whether it’s a modern property or a stately home.

If you could choose a favourite project that G C Stonework has been involved in, which would it be?

There are so many to choose from, but for me it would have to be the installation of the temple and bespoke plinth work we installed for the National Military Dog Memorial in Holywell, North Wales. We were appointed very early on with this project, by the National Military Dog Memorial charity. We also attended the opening ceremony with the Royal Navy, and RAF, along with fundraisers and committee members all attending this special occasion.

Why do you enjoy working with Haddonstone?

One of the many reasons is the quality of the material.  The sharp crisp details of the stone, make installation easier; the products provide a seamless look once pointed whether that be a portico, water feature or bespoke project. The team provides a delivery date, which is never compromised.  This makes our planning a lot easier, knowing the materials will be on site for us to commence work. A team member is always there to help.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of embarking on a building project?

Take your time and really give it some thought. There is a lot to consider, with many factors which include design, colour and materials.

Haddonstone provide CAD drawings and expert advice to assist you through the whole process, to ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

For further information, visit www.haddonstone.com