Choosing Stone and Pavers
- Flagstone: irregular natural shapes for a relaxed, organic look.
- Cut stone: rectangular natural pieces for a more formal patio.
- Concrete pavers: consistent, strong and available in many colors and textures.
- Brick: classic, especially for borders and walkways near traditional homes.
Seat Walls, Steps and Borders
A low seat wall around a patio adds seating without furniture and defines the space. Steps built from matching stone link levels cleanly. Borders and soldier courses lock pavers in place and give the patio a finished edge.
What Makes Hardscape Last
Almost every hardscape failure starts below the surface. We excavate to stable soil, install and compact an aggregate base in layers, slope surfaces for drainage and use proper bedding. Mortared stone gets a concrete slab underneath; dry-laid pavers get edge restraint and polymeric sand. Done right, the surface stays flat through heavy rain and summer heat.
Caring for Stone and Pavers
Hardscape is low maintenance, not no maintenance. Sweep regularly, rinse off pollen in spring and pull weeds from joints before they take hold. Polymeric sand in paver joints may need topping off every few years. A penetrating sealer can deepen color and resist staining on pavers and some natural stones, though it is optional. If a paver settles or cracks, it can be lifted and replaced without disturbing the rest of the patio, one of the big advantages of a dry-laid paver patio over a poured slab.
Adding Fire and Light
Stone fire pits and fireplaces pair naturally with stone patios, and low-voltage lights in walls and steps make the space safe at night. Most custom patios are completed within about 1 to 3 weeks of construction. Learn more about our concrete and hardscaping services.
Common Questions
What kinds of outdoor spaces do you build in Brookhaven?
Stone and paver patios, walkways, seat walls, steps, fire pits and fireplaces, plus decks, pergolas and kitchens when the plan calls for them.
How long does a stone patio take to install?
Many are completed within about 1 to 3 weeks once construction begins, depending on size, material and whether walls or steps are included.
Which is better, natural stone or pavers?
Natural stone has unique character; pavers offer consistency and easier repairs. Both last when installed on a proper base. We bring samples so you can compare.
Can you add a fire pit to a stone patio?
Yes. A stone fire pit is one of the most popular additions and can be built at the same time as the patio or later.
Do stone patios get hot in summer?
Darker stones absorb more heat, so lighter colors are more comfortable barefoot. Shade from a pergola or tree also helps. We bring samples so you can see the color options.