Hello,
Relatively new homeowner here with zero knowledge of masonry - I have an issue with the stone clad steps in front of my house and have 2 quotes for very different work. I am hoping some people on here with more experience with this might be able to help!

I have about 10 of these stones that have fallen off the steps as the mortar has failed/crumbled. (I imagine these steps were done 15+ years ago) I had 2 people come out to quote and one said they needed to dismantle the whole porch including treads and re-do the mortar and placement of stones. The other said they could just clean and mortar back the stones without removing the treads. The price difference is pretty big. Any thoughts?