Choosing Your Hardscape Materials

Starting a new hardscape project is always exciting. Focus on the work on hand—and not the worry about what are the right materials. Here are our tips on where to begin when your patio materials for your new outdoor living space.

Related: Professional Landscape Lighting Tips, Secrets of Hiring a Great Hardscape Contractor, Top Patio Options

Techo Bloc Monticello Stoop Overlay

Look for Inspiration

You may know exactly what you are looking for, or you may have some ideas but are open to alternatives. Either way, it is good to familiarize yourself with the selection of quality stone, concrete pavers, wall blocks, fire pit kits, steps, and veneers. There is so much to choose from paver manufacturers today. From EP Henry revolutionary Cast Stone Wall, Techo Bloc Blu 60 pavers, Belgard Lafitt, CST Roman cobble.

Understand the Pros and Cons

There is no single perfect building material. All materials have their unique characteristics, pros, and cons. Often, if a particular look is predetermined, such as flagstone, you may want to use it throughout the landscape but because it is not suitable for driveways, there is a determination that needs to be made on whether to use flagstone at all. Fortunately, CKC Landscaping can help you find alternatives that will result in the desired look. With flagstone, for example, you can find several concrete paver options that are suitable for driveways and pool decks, to give you that unified aesthetic you are hoping to achieve.

Design Choices for that perfect outdoor space

Choosing materials can be a big challenge. Many people can narrow their choices down to a handful, or three, within the first visit. If you need help choosing a paver color or paver size, it is nice to be able to see them in a real setting where you can see their sizes. You can always ask to take a sample home, or CKC Landscaping can drop one off. It is always a great idea to see that color stone in the actual space that will be your new patio.

Remember Outdoor Lighting Needs

Professional landscape lighting can transform an outdoor living space into a magical getaway once the sun sets. From well lights to upplight your house, to bullet lights to accent your shrubbery, we can incorporate it all. CKC Landscaping will help you create a lighting design that will give you exactly the right amount and type of lighting for each zone in the backyard—from a welcoming front entry to a romantic walkway and cozy backyard dining nook, and everything in between.

Outdoor Structures

A backyard can feel incomplete without vertical structures that provide shade and establish a relaxing atmosphere, such as a pergola, gazebo, or roof structure. Not only do these types of structures offer shelter, but they also make a backyard feel like a truly special place to be. CKC Landscaping has carpenters on staff to build that perfect outdoor living space for you to enjoy for many years to come.

For more resources, check our Outdoor Living Spaces and click here to schedule your free consultation today.