You have questions? Merkley Supply has answers!
General FAQs
Does Merkley install brick, stone, masonry, etc.?
We do not install the products we sell, but we do provide technical support to installation professionals. We can also provide a list of recommended installers for your specific product choice.
Does Merkley only serve contractors and the construction industry?
We’re happy to serve anyone involved in a building or renovation project, including homeowners, do-it-yourself renovators, architects, designers, builders and trades. Our masonry yard and showroom are open to the public.
Do I need to make an appointment to see your showroom?
No, you do not need an appointment. Drop-ins to our showroom are welcome during regular business hours. However, if you need to speak to one of our product experts, making an appointment is the best way to ensure that you get the help and guidance you need.
Do you provide shipping and delivery?
Yes, typically we ship to Ottawa, Gatineau, Kingston and the surrounding areas. If you are outside of our standard shipping area, contact us for details regarding shipping directly to you.
Do you offer cash-and-carry service in your masonry yard?
Yes. Merkley Supply has the largest and best-stocked masonry supply yard in Eastern Ontario — so come on over and shop!
How quickly can you have my order ready?
In-stock items can be purchased and carried off the yard. Large orders, custom orders, or those requiring delivery will be subject to scheduling considerations. Contact us for product availability and delivery schedules.
Does Merkley have a professional designer on staff?
No. Our staff consists of product experts, not architectural or design professionals. We have, however, worked with many of the region’s most sought-after architects, engineers and designers. Feel free to ask us for a recommendation for your specific project.
Can you provide me with the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) for the products you sell?
MSDS and WHMIS information can be found on the manufacturer’s websites, if not, we may provide them.
Natural Stone
What types of stone are acceptable for use outside?
Any stone can be used outside, but depending on their makeup, location and outdoor conditions their use might be limited.
Are special cut sizes available for order?
Special cut slabs and other dimensional stones can be ordered in certain types of stones to manufacture sills, surrounds, mantels, hearth stones, etc.
What are flagstones?
Flagstone is a term used for flat stones of any type used for walkways or patios. Typically, they range from 1″ to 3″ in thickness, depending on the stone type.
What are the advantages to using stone over other products?
Stones have a property where they absorb energy at a slower rate than other products and release that energy at a slower rate as well. On a house that means that in the summer the heat would not transfer through the walls as quickly and in the winter the heat would not escape as quickly, therefore reducing cooling and heating costs. Stone is also more resistant to a lot of the elements and to freeze/thaw cycles.
Sealers
What types of sealers are there?
Typically, there are two types of carriers for sealers: water based or solvent based. However, there are many different types of sealers. Some are penetrating and some are surface sealers. Please contact us for the appropriate type for your specific project.
When is the best time to seal?
Concrete should not be sealed before full cure (28 days) and stone should be sealed as soon as possible in high-traffic areas. Patios and walkways sometimes do not require sealing.
What does a sealer do?
Sealers by name are a little deceiving as sealers do not block everything out. What they are intended for is to buy you time to clean up stains before they penetrate through the sealant.
How do I remove stains before sealing?
There are various cleaners for various stains and the selection is based on substrates. Please contact us before applying certain cleaners as they can have irreversible reactions with certain stones.