Here are some Simple Tips to Help Create a Hardscaping Masterpiece:

Choose your Style: With so many styles and patterns of paving stones to choose from you might be overwhelmed at first. It’s always best to visit the dealers to see the products on display.  Do you want your paving stones to be consistent in size and shape? Do you what to incorporate unique and stylish patterns? With specific brands such as Unilock, Techo-Bloc and EP Henry, you can create designs, colors and patterns previously resembling natural stone. With paving stones you can also create monograms, edge walkways and incorporate different shapes into your patio. Create different effects using small bricks or large molded slabs. If you choose to use the same size paving stones, angling the stones horizontally and vertically will make a big difference.  We are never afraid to experiment with the use of shapes and texture in different directions to form designs within the patio.

Choose your Patio Surface: Depending on the look you want for your patio, the surface you choose to build it with can say everything. These days a durable surface can last for generations to come, can be easy to clean or replace and can keep the desired look you want all year round. If you are going for a natural, untamed look, paving slabs will work as well as stone and offer more versatility in color and texture. Since they are a concrete product, they don’t heat up in the sun therefore are cooler to walk on barefoot.  Use rough pieces of flagstone for your patio, or choose from manufactured stone that comes in uniform dimensions and thicknesses. Stones with lower porosity are more durable and last longer than stones that absorb lots of water. If you are considering stone, be sure to take porosity, durability, and hardness into account.

Include Landscape Elements: When designing your paving stone patio keep in mind the elements that will be included with the patio once it’s competed. These will include benches, landscape lighting, planters, fountains/ water effects, pergola’s and any other item that will be a permanent fixture to your completed patio design. Don’t forget about landscaping. You may have views that need to be blocked or enhanced when viewing your yard from your new patio. If you have an area that slopes into your patio, you may want to use a retaining wall to keep it in place. You can also use plants and shrubs that will further compliment the shapes and colors you choose.

Autumn Leaf Landscape Design, Inc. specializes in paving stone patios and hardscape designs. If you’d like to add value to your home with a new patio or would like to replace an existing one, call us today at (631) 424-5544. We look forward to creating a hardscape creation for you and your family!