Hardscaping in Atlanta, GA

The base under the stone

Most hardscape failures start in the base. Georgia red clay swells when wet and shrinks when dry, and it drains slowly. A patio laid on a thin base over clay will settle and shift within a few seasons. So we dig out soft soil, lay compacted gravel in layers, and slope every surface so water runs off it and away from the house.

Materials we work with

• Concrete pavers in a wide range of colors, sizes and textures, including permeable pavers that let rain soak through
• Natural stone such as flagstone, bluestone and granite, dry-laid or set in mortar
• Segmental wall block for retaining walls, seat walls and raised beds
• Brick and stone veneer for fireplaces, outdoor kitchens and wall caps

Plan hardscape and drainage together

A new patio or walkway changes where water goes. Rain that used to soak into the lawn now runs off the hard surface, often toward the house. We plan drainage as part of every hardscape project: grading, channel drains, downspout connections and pipes that carry water to daylight. See drainage and grading for how we handle wet yards.