A patio is a ground-level surface, typically using stone, pavers, or concrete, ideal for flat or gently sloped yards. A deck is an elevated platform, usually wood or composite, perfect for uneven terrain or creating multi-level spaces. Hardscaping refers to all non-living elements in your landscape—walkways, retaining walls, edging, and other structural features. Often, we combine these elements to create comprehensive outdoor environments that maximize both function and beauty while addressing your property’s specific topography and your lifestyle needs.

Project timelines vary based on complexity. A simple patio might take 1-2 weeks, while a standard deck installation typically requires 2-3 weeks. Comprehensive projects involving multiple elements might take 3-6 weeks. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed timeline specific to your project. Weather can impact outdoor construction schedules, but we work efficiently to minimize delays while maintaining our quality standards throughout the process.

For durability in our climate, we recommend composite materials for decks, natural stone or quality pavers for patios, and reinforced concrete for hardscape elements. These materials withstand humidity, temperature fluctuations, and seasonal weather changes while requiring minimal maintenance. We avoid materials that warp, fade, or deteriorate quickly in our environment. During your consultation, we’ll help you select the best materials for your budget, aesthetic preferences, and desired maintenance level.

Absolutely. Challenging site conditions often inspire our most creative solutions. Sloped properties become opportunities for multi-level designs that create visual interest and distinct functional areas. Drainage issues lead to innovative solutions like dry creek beds that become landscape features, or permeable pavers that manage water while providing stable surfaces. We conduct thorough site evaluations to identify how to best work with your property’s natural attributes rather than against them.