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Choosing the Right Hardscape for Your Home

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The Importance of Choosing the Right Hardscape

When envisioning their home’s exterior, many focus on its soft landscaping alone. Yet hardscaping should not be neglected when designing its design; choosing an appropriate hardscape sets the tone, influences functionality, and determines the longevity of outdoor spaces.

Hardscape refers to all non-living elements in landscaping – from patios and driveways to walkways and retaining walls – that make up non-living features from patios and driveways to walkways and retaining walls. A hardscape goes beyond being visually appealing; it creates usable, functional spaces that add value and quality of life for owners and renters. By selecting appropriate hardscape materials, homeowners can ensure these structures will not only look good but will withstand time, weather, and wear and tear.

Hardscaping choices have an immediate and far-reaching effect on other aspects of our properties, from drainage improvements to maintenance costs and pooled water issues. When designing patios or creating hardscapes, decisions we make have far-reaching effects, from better drainage to increased maintenance requirements or pooled water accumulation in yards.

Choosing the ideal hardscape isn’t simply about aesthetics – it has far-reaching consequences that affect outdoor spaces’ durability, functionality, and overall appeal. So whether renovating or designing from scratch, keep this decision at the forefront of your mind; it could have lasting ramifications!

The Basics of Hardscaping: Understanding Your Options

Homeowners embarking on their hardscape design journey can often feel overwhelmed by all of the choices. From materials, designs, and functionalities, homeowners face many choices when making hardscape decisions – knowing the basics and prioritizing selecting an appropriate hardscape will provide a platform for creating a harmonious outdoor space.

  • Stone: Natural stone is an elegant and long-term hardscaping material. Common choices like flagstone, bluestone, and slate can add timeless design elements such as pathways and patios to a landscape, making this material essential for creating timeless hardscape designs.
  • Brick: With their rich colors and classic aesthetic, bricks make an excellent choice for driveways, patios, and walkways. Combining durability with vintage aesthetics ensures homeowners select an appropriate hardscape complementing traditional architectural styles.
  • Concrete: Versatile and cost-effective, concrete can be easily formed into any shape you can imagine with ease and cost-effectiveness. From stamped patios to sleek modern pathways, carefully chosen and installed concrete hardscape can dramatically elevate any outdoor space’s aesthetics.
  • Gravel and Pebbles: Gravel and pebbles can make an attractive choice when creating permeable pathways, driveways, or fillers between stone pavers. Their natural appearance combined with ease of installation makes these hardscape elements attractive when choosing a hardscape that balances practicality and aesthetics.
  • Wood: Wood can add an organic charm to hardscape designs, lending warmth and organic texture. However, its longevity in certain climates may pose issues; therefore, it is vitally important to choose a hardscape suitable to its environment.
  • Composite and Alternative Materials: Thanks to technological developments, materials like composite decking or rubber paving are proving increasingly durable while maintaining their natural aesthetic.

Understanding your options is the first step to choosing an effective hardscape design. By carefully considering each material’s benefits and drawbacks according to your needs, aesthetic preferences, and budgetary constraints, you can create an outdoor space that represents your vision with longevity.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Hardscape

Hardscaping can transform an outdoor space, adding beauty and function simultaneously. But with so many choices available to them, how can homeowners make an informed decision when selecting hardscaping options for their properties? Below are a few key considerations when making this important decision:

  • Climate and Weather Resistance: Hardscaping materials vary in their ability to withstand various climate conditions; for instance, porous materials like certain types of stone may crack over time in environments prone to freezing-thawing cycles; concrete or brick might fare better. Therefore, considering local weather patterns is key when selecting hardscape materials.
  • Maintenance and Durability: Every hardscaping material comes with different maintenance needs. Wood may need frequent staining or sealing, while stone may require occasional cleaning. Consider your time and effort available when making this decision when deciding on an ideal hardscape material.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Hardscape should complement your home’s exterior and its natural surroundings, from rustic to modern or traditional designs – ensure that materials and designs match your vision.
  • Functionality: One should carefully consider the ideal hardscape design’s intended function. Will the hardscape serve as a pathway, patio, or retaining wall? Based on this consideration, appropriate materials and designs may vary; for instance, pool decks might require slip-resistant materials – thus emphasizing its role in selecting an effective hardscape design.
  • Budget: While it can be tempting to use more luxurious materials, your project must remain within your budget. Alternative or composite materials may be suitable substitutes that provide similar looks without incurring as steep of a price tag.
  • Environmental Impact: Sustainable landscaping has become more and more popular. When selecting materials for use in your garden design, take note of their source and potential environmental impact – reclaimed wood, permeable paving, or locally sourced stone can all provide beautiful yet eco-friendly options that provide lasting beauty.
  • Installation Complexity: While certain hardscape projects may be DIY-friendly, others require professional expertise for installation. Knowing these installation requirements can help guide decisions when selecting an ideal hardscape design and managing costs.

Finding the ideal hardscape requires striking a delicate balance among aesthetics, functionality, cost, and longevity. By considering these aspects together, homeowners can craft a space that elevates their property’s beauty and meets their needs over time.

Benefits of Making the Right Hardscape Choice

Selecting the ideal hardscape for your property goes far beyond aesthetics; it offers multiple benefits beyond mere aesthetics. When homeowners make informed choices, their rewards are many and varied. Let’s examine some advantages associated with selecting an appropriate hardscape:

  • Enhance Property Value: First impressions matter. A well-designed and maintained outdoor space can make an enormous impactful statement about its owner’s home; in real estate terms, this equates to increased property value. By choosing an appropriate hardscape solution, homeowners enhance aesthetic appeal and increase return.
  • Durability and Longevity: Selecting hardscape materials carefully can stand up to environmental challenges over time, with maintenance costs remaining minimal and your hardscape remaining in good shape for years, if not decades.
  • Functionality and Usability: Hardscapes create functional outdoor spaces, such as patios for relaxing or driveways for vehicles – that serve their intended purposes efficiently and safely. By making an informed selection, these hardscapes ensure their intended functions efficiently and safely.
  • Environment-Friendly Solutions: Selecting eco-friendly hardscape options such as permeable paving can aid in water management, decreasing runoff and soil erosion. Selecting eco-friendly materials also lowers your property’s environmental footprint.
  • Reducing Maintenance Strain: When selecting hardscape materials tailored specifically for a region and its intended function, repairs and upkeep tend to occur less often, saving money while lessening time and effort invested in upkeeping outdoor spaces. This reduces maintenance stress.
  • Harmonious Design: By selecting a hardscape design that complements their home’s architectural style and the surrounding landscape, homeowners create an aesthetically pleasing yet relaxing outdoor environment that pleases their eyes and their hearts.
  • Safeguard and Comfort: Hardscapes that have been carefully selected provide safe walking surfaces, reduce mud and dust accumulation, and manage snow and ice accumulation in colder regions – providing comfort to residents and visitors alike.

Conclusion Choosing the appropriate hardscape option is an investment with multiple returns, from tangible financial benefits to intangible comforts and pleasures. Selecting an appropriate hardscape highlights its significance for holistic property design and management.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Hardscaping

Hardscaping can be immensely rewarding when done correctly; however, its execution can present unique challenges to homeowners. However, with proper research and selecting an appropriate hardscape design, many pitfalls can be avoided through education and selecting an ideal hardscape solution. Here’s an overview of some common missteps and how you can avoid them:

  • Ignoring Drainage Concerns: One of the greatest hardscaping mistakes is failing to address drainage needs. An improperly designed hardscape could allow water to pool, causing long-term damage and potential hazards. When selecting a hardscape design, its features must provide proper drainage solutions.
  • Opting solely on Aesthetics: While an aesthetic material or design might look great, it might not provide the most long-term utility and durability. Homeowners must find a balance between beauty and practicality when making their choices for long-term purposes.
  • Not Considering Local Climate: Hardscape materials’ durability may depend heavily on regional weather conditions; certain stones might not withstand freeze-thaw cycles effectively. Therefore, careful research and expertise are crucial when selecting an appropriate hardscape design to fit specific environmental conditions.
  • Overlooking Maintenance Needs: Every hardscaping material requires regular upkeep. While initial appearance may draw people in, understanding the long-term care requirements of materials is key when choosing an ideal hardscape design.
  • DIY Without Adequate Knowledge: While DIY hardscaping projects may feel satisfying, doing it without proper experience could end up causing more costly mistakes than expected. When in doubt, consult or hire an expert – that way, you’re guaranteed the appropriate hardscape with proper installation!
  • Neglecting Future Growth: Plants and trees grow over time, altering landscapes. Failing to account for this change when hardscaping can cause future complications – such as roots affecting pathways or patios.
  • Failing to Establish a Clear Budget: Hardscaping projects can quickly become more expensive than anticipated without setting a clear budget and selecting an appropriate hardscape within those constraints. A clear budget and selecting one can reduce stress-related financial strain.

Hardscaping provides many advantages, yet homeowners must approach it with care and knowledge to reap these advantages to the fullest extent possible. By being aware of potential pitfalls and emphasizing the importance of selecting an ideal hardscape design, they can ensure they create an outdoor space with lasting beauty that serves multiple functions and stays on trend with current trends.

Steps Forward in Choosing the Right Hardscape for Your Home

Selecting an ideal hardscape requires more than aesthetic consideration; it should add value and function to your living space. Here are actionable steps for choosing a hardscape:

  • Assess Your Needs and Vision: Begin by outlining all of the primary functions your hardscape should serve – is it for entertainment, foot traffic or landscaping purposes? Visualize what the desired result should look like.
  • Investigate and Collect Inspiration: Forge ahead in researching hardscape design inspirations by consulting magazines, websites or local landscape projects. Get to know materials and design trends; this step is essential when selecting an aesthetic hardscape design to fit your preferences.
  • Consult With Professionals: While online resources can provide useful insight, nothing beats professional guidance from landscape architects or hardscape designers who understand your property’s specific requirements and challenges.
  • Consider Maintenance and Longevity: Before narrowing your choices, carefully consider each material’s maintenance requirements and long-term care commitments. Selecting an ideal hardscape means taking into account how much effort is willing to be invested over time in its upkeep.
  • Budgeting and Cost Analysis: Determine a clear budget, obtain estimates for designs and materials you like, and analyze potential cost savings opportunities without compromising aesthetics. Minor adjustments in design or material selection may yield substantial cost-cutting opportunities without compromising aesthetics.
  • Preparing Your Site: Before installation begins, ensure the site is adequately prepared by addressing drainage issues, leveling, and possibly performing soil testing. Prep work is key to the long-term viability of any hardscape project.
  • Review and Conclude: Before making your decisions, review all the options carefully – look at their look, feel, functionality, cost and maintenance needs; ensure they align with both your vision and practical needs; then commit.
  • Implement With Expertise: No matter if you choose DIY installation or professional services, ensure it is done with precision. Proper installation will help ensure that your hardscape lasts and serves its intended purpose effectively.
  • After Installation Care: Once your hardscape has been installed, understand its care and maintenance requirements to extend its lifespan and ensure lasting aesthetic appeal. Regular upkeep will guarantee a longer lasting hardscape experience that retains its natural appeal over time.

Finding the ideal hardscape design for your home requires research, thought, and sometimes professional guidance. By following these steps, homeowners can create outdoor spaces that not only enhance the beauty of their property but also add functionality and lasting value to it.

Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Space?

Selecting the appropriate hardscape can make a profound, impactful statement about who you are as an individual and a homeowner. Don’t leave it up to chance; call PMS Brick Pavers now at (866) 858-8443 and take the first step toward realizing your outdoor oasis dream! We are here to guide, design, and execute flawless hardscaping – “We Are The Guys!”

Why are brick pavers Very Popular In Lake Orion, MI

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Most Lake Orion, MI, homeowners prefer paver walkways thanks to the numerous potential advantages they provide. Paver walkways can boost not only the overall looks of any landscape but also offer a practical purpose. As the ultimate landscaping elements, paver walkways provide landscapes with a gorgeous, distinctive finish and professional look like no other. What’s more, they are naturally sophisticated and let your visitors enjoy the beautiful charm of your residence or property as they make their way to the entryway.

In terms of function, paver walkways are generally intended to sometimes direct people from your home’s main entranceway direct to the garden area or from your drive to the pergola. Usually, they are designed in such a way that they accentuate your home or property’s beautiful areas. Also, paver walkways direct people to guarantee no one steps on either lawn or soil. And this implies that they shield your guests and family from debris as well as your home from collecting dirt.

These are just a couple of reasons why paver walkways have become popular features of Lake Orion, MI homes. Now in this blog, we will discuss the convincing factors why you should start thinking about the installation of paver pathways in your residence:

They can hold out against all sorts of undesirable weather conditions:

The appeal of paver pathways has significantly increased in the past few years, thanks to the number of potential advantages they offer. And one significant advantage connected with pavers is their unmatched potential to hold up to all kinds of harsh weather conditions. Regardless of whether your house encounters severe winters characterized by heavy ice and snow, very sweltering summers, or large downpours, you can install paver pathways without having to worry about the prospect of them getting damaged by any kind of weather condition. This provides you the much-needed peace of mind realizing that paver pathways are installed to last and will serve you for an extended period!

They are effortless to take care of:

An additional big reason why paver walkways are popular among Lake Orion, MI residents, is that they need to have very little to no maintenance. After all, you only need to perform regular cleaning to ensure they stay in their ideal state. As opposed to other landscaping and hardscaping features that require costly routine upkeep, paver walkways just require routine, occasional washing, activities that nearly any owner of a house can do on his or her own with minimal effort.

What’s more, in the event of any damage, you can restore individual parts. This is a significant advantage when you consider that you won’t have to replace the entire compromised brick paver walkway when repairing any damaged pavers.

They are highly versatile:

Paver walkways are available in a plethora of choices, allowing you to select the designs and patterns that suit your visual needs and preferences. Nevertheless, if you are contemplating installing brick paver walkways in your residence, it is highly suggested that you seek the help of an established professional to assist you in choosing the best styles and patterns that will meet both your houses inside and outside decorative demands.

The bottom line:

Brick paver walkways are beneficial qualities that not only accentuate your home but lead your friends through your garden to your home. Nevertheless, to serve their intended function, brick paver walkways need to be installed by an experienced paver installation expert!

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Now!

If you have questions regarding brick pavers or brick paver lighting, get a hold of us now. Kindly feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Lake Orion, MI residence. We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS. We hope to hear from you soon!

Practical Tips To Help You Boost Your Hardscape In Summer!

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Every season has different perks that make it special, but there is something about summer that puts it in a league of its own. Whether you like having a cookout in your backyard with your friends or going to the beach, there is always something amazing to do during these fantastic months. And because you are a lot more active in summer, you will likely spend most of your time on your paver patio, which is generally good for your overall health. Depending on the age of your paver patio, you may have to maintain, repair, or make a few improvements to it by adding some new features. In this article, we provide you with proven tips on how to boost the appearance of your existing paver patio during the summer!

Address any necessary repair issues:

While brick pavers are generally sturdy and long-lasting, you may still have to address a few cracking or paver shifting issues. Cracking and shifting pavers are not only a huge safety hazard but could ultimately force you into making future costly repairs. One encouraging thing about brick pavers is that you’ll only have to repair a small part of the pavers than replace the whole structure as you would do with their concrete counterpart.

Consider adding a fireplace or pit:

A fireplace or pit can significantly boost your outdoor experience. These are highly versatile features that will allow you to unwind and entertain a large group of friends. Simply put, they allow you to get the most out of your paver patio during those warming and inviting summer nights. What’s more, they will allow you to use your patio even when the temperatures begin to drop.

Consider installing seat walls or enclosures:

If you are contemplating installing a fire pit, then seat walls offer a great design solution thanks to their unmatched functionality and appearance. Besides seating, the wall structure will equally help reflect the sweltering heat, guaranteeing a comfortable and relaxing experience. Alternatively, you may also install a walled enclosure without a sitting area to offer privacy as well as an incredible appearance.

Incorporate landscaping features into your paver patios:

Landscaping features can significantly enhance the overall appearance of your paver patios. You can add a brick border featuring shrubs, a retaining wall, or even some paintings to your pavers to boost their aesthetic looks. There are countless design options to choose from, and you can even choose plants to compliment the color of your brick pavers. Of course, you can always rely on the expertise and knowledge of landscaping professionals to help you choose the perfect design elements.

Clean and reseal your brick patio every two years:

This is an important step that you must implement. After addressing all the existing repair and maintenance issues, it’s now time to clean and seal your patio. And while you are free to clean as regularly as you would prefer, it’s recommended that you should seal pavers after every two years.

However, if your paver patio is relatively new, you should wait for a few months before you can seal them. It’s important that you allow your patio enough time for its structure to come together! On the other hand, if you are resealing your patio, ensure you first clean it using a pressure washing machine before removing the old sealing material and then resealing it.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or brick paver lighting, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro-Detroit, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

5 Essential Questions to Ask Your Paver Patio Contractor

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Having a new paver patio project can be exciting. The end results can potentially enhance the beauty and value of your home. Even so, it would be best if you took the time to make all necessary arrangements, such as having a proper plan and choosing the right design and the team to work with.

The paver patio contractor you hire will determine the kind of results you get. There are many Washington, MI, paver patio contractors you can choose from, and the last thing you want is to work with a contractor who will not deliver quality work.

Most contractors claim to be the best in Washington, MI, and you might be confused about choosing the best for your home. Below are the top 5 vital questions to ask your Washington, MI, paver patio contractor before signing that contract.

Does Your Company Give Guarantees?

It is essential to know that the contractor you choose to work with provides a form of assurance on the results you expect. A company that provides you with guarantees gives you the satisfaction that corrections will be made at no extra cost if there are errors and mistakes in the paver patio’s results.

Some guarantees also cover errors and mistakes for several months after completing work.

Do You Have a Valid Insurance and License?

The worst thing to do is work with a contractor operating illegally. A valid license and insurance are some of the primary things to ask from the patio paver contractor you consider hiring. The license proves the contractor is authorized and has the know-how to execute incredible works.

Misfortunes at times occur in the course of work. Working with a licensed contractor means that you will not be held liable in the unfortunate event that damages occur in the process of the construction works. To verify that the paver patio contractor is insured, ask for an insurance certificate copy and verify that the number is valid.

Do You Give Referrals?

One of the best ways of examining the expertise and experience of the contractor is by seeing their previous works and hearing what their previous clients have to say about them. If the paver patio contractor is hesitant to share referrals and recommendations, that is a red flag.

The best Washington, MI, paver patio contractors will gladly share this information to prove their past works and expertise.

Are Your Fees All Inclusive?

One of the major concerns with the construction industry is that sometimes contractors issue quotations that exclude some fees. Further, some of the fees are hidden, which means that you will pay more than you expected. Ask if the fees are inclusive of taxes, levies, etc. In addition, the contractor should explicitly state the expected costs in writing.

Do You Subcontract?

Does the contractor intend to hire another contractor for part of the construction works? The contractor you hire must inform you beforehand if they intend to bring other people to the project in your home. You need to be comfortable with the subcontracted company’s expertise, skills, and knowledge.

Reliable Paving Contractors In Washington, MI

Are you searching for the best paver patio contractor in Washington, MI? If yes, search no more you are at the right place. We have vast experience, skills, and a pool of experts who have worked over the years to help homeowners like you achieve the amazing landscapes they have been dreaming of. Reach us via email; we will be glad to put the same smile on your face.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or brick paver lighting, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro-Detroit, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

Knowing The Difference Between Hardscape and Softscape Elements

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The outdoor living space of any home features two important components; hardscape and softscape. But what is the difference between these two essential elements?

Just as the name implies hardscape simply refers to any hard thing available in your yard, including stones, brick, concrete, or any other similar thing. On the other hand, includes all types of soft components in your home, ranging from plants, and bushes to trees.

As you may have guessed, softscape constitutes all living things whereas hardscape is made up of inanimate objects in your yard. Great homes are those that can strike a good balance between softscape and hardscape. Car enthusiast homeowners usually transform their hardscapes into gorgeous and eye-catching driveways. Such driveways not only make your residential property look beautiful but also give it a commercial appeal.

On the other hand, homeowners who are a fan of gardening usually tend to fill their outdoor spaces with huge trees, and bold shrubs as well as bushes. So, as a homeowner, it’s vital that you find the right balance between the hardscape and softscape in your home.

So, what are the most common hardscape elements in your home?

As previously explained, hardscape simply refers to non-living things in your home. But for your understanding, let us delve deeper into this topic. In this section, we discuss some of the common things that can be categorized as hardscape components of your home.

To be more precise, hardscape describes hard but movable elements in your home, including gravel, pavers, and stones, among others, that are found in your outside space. It features non-living and inanimate objects that also don’t change over time.

Hardscape components usually affect your surroundings very differently. In this regard, things such as pavements, or stones don’t allow water to infiltrate the soil, thereby increasing the likelihood of pollutants finding their way into water bodies. On the other hand, porous elements permit water to infiltrate into the soil, minimizing runoffs. Other notable types of hardscape materials may include outside kitchens, gazebos, patios, and decks. It is worth noting that hardscape materials are either artificial or natural.

So, what are some of the most common types of softscape elements?

As opposed to their hardscape counterparts, softscape materials are soft to touch, just as the name implies. In this regard, trees, shrubs, flowers as well as ground covers are great examples of softscape elements. Bearing in mind that these are living things, they will inevitably change over time. As a result, they require proper care. Softscape components such as trees, and shrubs differ in terms of shape, texture as well as size.

Practical tips on how to integrate softscape and hardscape elements into your home:

  • If your home is relatively small, use vertical spaces to incorporate softscape features into your yard. You can also use container gardening techniques as well as pedestals to make your home look bigger.
  • If you reside in an area with government restrictions regarding water usage, forcing you to rethink your softscape elements, don’t fret! You can continue to enjoy having a beautiful garden by making a few alterations. For example, if the water supply is a major concern, you can replace some of your softscape features with hardscape ones. In this regard, you replace your garden’s grass patch with hardscape elements such as pavers, concrete, or even granite. You can also incorporate a few drought-resistant plants.
  • You may also use hardscaping elements, including retaining walls to create additional space.

The bottom line:

We have not only highlighted the key difference between hardscape and softscape elements in your home, but have also provided you with proven and practical tips on how to combine these two important features and make your home a beautiful place.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or brick paver lighting, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Clinton Twp, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

Vital Facts You Need to Know About Your Hardscape Projects

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Concrete as a material for constructing driveways has many limitations. It is highly vulnerable to stain, cracks, and permanent damages. Further, concrete doesn’t improve the curb appeal of your property. Is there a better choice available? Yes, you can choose the option of pavers. With a perfect blend of stone and other material tiles, driveway pavers enhance the curb appeal of your house. You can also enjoy many functional advantages with pavers.

What Makes Driveway Pavers a better choice?

High longevity

High longevity is a prominent advantage of pavers. Compared to concrete, pavers are made using more solid materials and hold out perfectly against large, heavy vehicles. They also show admirable resistance to adverse weather conditions. So, you don’t need to worry about frequent repairs or replacements.

Admirable resistance to stain and scratches

Concrete is vulnerable to stains and scratches. If you want to create a spotless entrance, you must use driveway pavers. They show admirable resistance to stains and tire scratches. If the surface gets stained, you can use a paver sealer to remove stains easily.

Easy and affordable replacement

Another prominent advantage of pavers is the easy and affordable replacement. You can replace pavers fast without worrying about the cost. Concrete replacement needs more time, effort, and money.

Excellent visual appeal

The visual appeal of driveway pavers is much superior to concrete driveways. These materials are available in different colors. You can choose different colors and arrange them in unique patterns and shapes to transform the look of your house.

How to enhance the longevity of your patio paver?

The versatility, visual appeal, and durability of paver stones make them a better option than concrete. However, you cannot expect them to last forever. Here are some steps you can follow to optimize the longevity of pavers:

Hire an accomplished professional

Timely repair and maintenance works must be done with the help of an experienced brick paver contractor. Installation mistakes like incorrect grading or base often create issues such as shifting and sunken area formation. If you seek professional help and perform timely repairs, you can optimize the longevity of your patio paver avoid costly repair works.

Use sealant after installation

Applying sealant increases the durability of brick paver stones substantially. It offers the best protection against stains, weeds, and harsh weather conditions. The sealant must be applied after 2-months of installation to enjoy maximum benefits.

Perform cleaning and resealing every 24 months

Cleaning and resealing your patio every 2 years maximizes the longevity admirably. You can use a pressure washer to clean the surface before stripping the old sealant. Then, a new layer can be applied to keep the patio functional and attractive.

Seeking professional help is the best choice

When you want to do a hardscape project, the best choice is to hire an experienced contractor with an excellent track record. Skilled professionals know how to get the job done efficiently to ensure 100% customer satisfaction. Professional expertise helps you avoid simple installation mistakes that lead to costly repairs in the future.

Accomplished brick paver contractors even help you plan an outdoor fireplace to make your hardscape project incredibly successful. No matter whether you want to install a driveway, patio, walkways, edging, walls, or fireplaces, you must seek the help of a trusted and experienced hardscape contractor to enjoy the best results.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or hardscape design, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro-Detroit, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

Here’s What You Can Do to Protect Your Pavers Against Harsh Weather Conditions

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Countries in the United States experiences extreme weather conditions — from heavy rainfall to heavy snow to dry and warm winters, the continent experiences it all. Though there is always something enjoyable about each of these weather conditions, they wreak havoc for our brick pavers. The good news is by taking a few precautions, it is possible to elongate the life of brick pavers, even when they get subjected to harsh weather conditions time and again.

In this article, we discuss few tips on how to protect your brick pavers from harsh weather conditions.

Seal Your Pavers After Every Five Years

The first thing you must do is seal your pavers. When you seal pavers, you essentially close the pathway through which water enters pavers and destroys them. Homeowners often ask us: how often should you seal your brick pavers? The correct answer is after every five years.

Design Pavers Using Sturdy Material

In the U.S., many areas receive snow for a considerable part of the year. If you live in such an area, you must design your driveway in such a way so as to keep space for things that you will need during the snow season, such as a snowplough. For this, you will have to make sure you are using the best quality material for your pavers. Anything sub-standard will develop cracks and become chipped eventually, leading to not only your home looking less beautiful but also compelling you to spend a fortune on repairs.

If you are using pavers to create outdoor decks, you must use a composite decking material. Using such material will protect your pavers from the damaging effect of water. That apart, call an expert and have them seal your pavers as soon as they are installed.

Use Sand Instead of a Deicing Agent to Clear Snow

When it snows, most homeowners use deicing agents to clear snow, unaware of the fact that deicing agents cause more harm than good. Deicing agents contain a lot of salt and thus, not only are these agents bad for plants in the surrounding areas, but they are also bad news for our brick pavers. Therefore, during the heavy snow season, instead of using a deicing agent, use sand. Clean the whole area and generously sprinkle sand over it. This will not only help clear the snow but also give traction to your brick pavers.

Talk to a Brick Paver Expert and Ask Them Which Colour Would Be Ideal for You

While choosing pavers, homeowners give the whole idea a lot of thought and usually choose a design and colour that they think will match well with their home’s interiors. Most homeowners also gravitate towards darker shades, simply because they think maintaining darker brick pavers is easier than maintaining light-coloured brick pavers when the truth is different. Dark-coloured pavers attract and trap heat and become discoloured soon. So, before picking any specific colour, talk to an expert and have them explain to you what colour would be ideal for you, keeping in mind the climate in your area.

Choosing brick pavers may seem like an easy task, but there are many things that one must consider if one does not want to spend an exorbitant amount of money on repairs later on.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or hardscape design, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro-Detroit, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

Basic Things You Must Know About Brick Paver Lights

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Smart homeowners understand that a home’s landscape is an investment. They, therefore, do not hesitate from spending both time and money on beautifying their landscape. Unfortunately, even the smartest of homeowners make some mistakes: they spend big on things they assume their visitors will notice first, and completely neglect those things that do not meet the eye immediately, not knowing that beauty is always in the details. One of the things that homeowners ignore is lighting, even when lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Of late, brick paver lighting has gained immense popularity. These lights not only enhance the appeal of a home but also protect a home’s inhabitants and their guests from any mishaps by properly illuminating the path, especially in areas that receive heavy rainfall and snow. We dedicate this article to brick paver lights, everything there is to know about them, and some tips on how to maintain them.

Some Basic Things You Must Know About Brick Paver Lights

Brick paver lights are called so as they are embedded within the brick pavers. These lights especially look good around driveways, pool decks, and patios.

These days, based on the lighting aspect, homeowners can choose between two types of brick paver lighting: solar-powered and connector/transformer-powered lighting. Further, based on the design aspect, homeowners can choose between frosted lighting and heavy-duty lens brick paver lightings.

Here’s Why They Are a Good Investment

Now, many homeowners ask us: why should we choose brick paver lights over traditional lights? To start with, homeowners must choose brick paver lights over traditional lights as the former are customizable. What does that mean for a homeowner? It simply means you can choose to have brick paver lights in any color. This is a cool and important feature as it makes brick paver lights the ideal choice for people who want their lights to match their mood and interiors. That apart, since brick paver lights are fitted inside the structure of a brick paver, they are sturdy, low-maintenance, and you can rest assured they will never fall over your head while you are crossing a room. The design of these lights also protects them from the effect of harsh weather conditions.

In conclusion, brick paver lights mean more value for money. Therefore, it is not very surprising that smart homeowners have been ruling in their favor for some time now.

Maintenance Tips

Brick paver lights are sturdy, their design makes them so. However, they still need some amount of maintenance. Do not get them installed into your home and then neglect them completely. Here are a few things you must-do if you want to keep your brick paver lights working well for long.

  • To start with, ask an expert electrician to check your lights at least once every year. This way, if there is a minor problem with your brick paver lights, the expert will fix it right then and there, stopping it from becoming big and a menace later.
  • Second, when you call a lighting expert, ask them to make sure that all the cables are completely covered. Exposed cables do not only increase the chances of lights getting damaged but also increase the probability of accidents and mishaps.
  • Brick paver lights tend to shift with time. So, if you think the light from your brick pavers has diminished, chances are it’s because the lights have shifted. Ask the expert to check and make sure the lights are fixed well in their place.
  • Last, ask the expert to clean all the lights properly. Dirty lenses can make the light coming out of the structure hazy and dull. While you can do this on your own, brick paver lights are located at a height and cleaning them is never so easy. So, trust an expert.

There is a reason why so many homeowners are opting to go for brick paver lights. These lights offer many advantages over traditional lights. So, be smart and get them for your home as well.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or hardscape design, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro-Detroit, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

Here’s Why Hardscaping and Landscaping Elements Are Not an Expense but an Investment Opportunity

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Realtors and landscaping experts are always singing songs about landscaping and hardscaping elements. One may think that these praises come because these elements help realtors and landscaping experts put money in their pockets. While that is true to some extent, there is no denying that landscaping and hardscaping elements profit homeowners more than they profit the experts. How? Hardscaping and landscaping elements accentuate the beauty of a home, thereby helping the owner fetch a competent price once the house is up on the real estate resale market.

In simple words, landscaping and hardscaping elements present an investment opportunity that homeowners can use to their advantage and increase the value of their property. If you are someone who understands the value of these elements, you are making a choice you won’t regret. However, before you get these elements, sit down and think about the utility associated with the elements you plan to get — what do you plan to do when you are outside in the open? Do you plan to have people over? Will you be having large gatherings or small ones? Other than figuring out answers to these questions, also study your home’s specifications properly. See how much free space do you have available with you and how much more can you free up for the elements that you wish to incorporate.

Unfortunately, many homeowners continue to stay away from these elements as they think of only the short-term and find such ideas a waste of money. If you are someone who is thinking of the short term, don’t. Your home deserves to look beautiful. In this article, we give you some solid reasons why you must consider incorporating landscaping and hardscaping elements into your home.

Landscaping Elements Protect Your Property Against External Damages

Landscaping elements can provide protection against external harmful elements. To elaborate further, suppose you live in a sloppy area and water and debris have damaged your home’s foundation, you can use a retaining wall to protect your water against the damaging effect of dirt and water. A retaining wall will not only add to the charm of your house but will also help you keep water away from your home’s foundation. Landscaping elements, such as retaining walls, make a lot of sense in areas that are prone to erosion.

Thus, once you decide to go with landscaping and hardscaping elements, talk to your landscaping expert and ask them to help you find pieces that will not only add aesthetic charm to your home but also serve some practical purpose.

They Help Homeowners Get a Competent Price for Their Property

If you have ever been in the market for a resale property, you would know that real estate agents love the words curb appeal. What is curb appeal? Curb appeal denotes a home’s aesthetic charm. Real estate agents are obsessed with the words curb appeal because homes that are good to look at leave the resale market almost immediately. Thus, if you plan to sell your home someday and hope to get a decent price for it, you must consider incorporating landscaping features, such as pavers, stone patio, retainer walls, etc.

The Final Word

If you are not in favor of hardscaping elements, think again — you are letting go of a great investment opportunity. However, we understand that decisions concerning homes are always tough. So, talk to other homeowners as well as realtors and landscaping experts and make your opinion after hearing every side.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or hardscape design, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro-Detroit, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

Simple Fixes for Your Yard Before the Summer Season

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Macomb, MI, will soon be ready to welcome the beautiful summer season — trees will again look full of life and flowers will bloom to their full strength. But, are you prepared to welcome the summer season? Summer parties are the chicest trend, but if your yard is not in the best shape, you will be giving your visitors and guests a good chance to criticize you and your home.

So, before you start preparing for a summer pool party or a barbeque dinner, sit down and think about everything in your yard that needs fixing or must be upgraded. If you are clueless about where to start, we give you some ideas in this article. Here are some areas that require some work before the spring season.

Start with the Patio

Brick pavers patios are quite popular in Macomb, MI. Paver patios are easy to fix and in case of damage, one is required to change only the damaged part and not the entire patio. This makes paver patios a favorite of many Macomb, MI, homeowners.

If your paver patio has developed cracks, the first thing you must do is replace the damaged part before the summer season arrives. This will make your patio look new and beautiful again. Further, make sure to ask an expert to clean your patio. While paver patios are easy to clean and basic brooming and mopping is enough to keep these patios looking new and shiny, sometimes paver patios also develop stains and marks that refuse to go with basic cleaning. If you are dealing with stubborn marks and stains, do not hesitate to call a cleaning expert.

Move Your Attention to the Outdoor Fireplace

Once you are done cleaning and fixing your patio, move your attention to the outdoor fireplace as the fireplace will be the center of most of your gatherings. If you have a metal fire pit, you must get to work immediately. Metal firepits look beautiful but are prone to rust. They also get damaged rather quickly. If your metal fire pit has developed rust, the only option you have is to replace it. Opt for a brick paver fire pit. Brick paver fire pits are easy to repair and also give outdoor spaces an old-world charm and a traditional look that metal fire pits fail to provide.

Next, Fix the Retaining Wall

Retaining walls make a lot of sense for homes built on sloppy lands or those located in regions that receive excessive rainfall. Retaining walls do an excellent job of stopping soil erosion. However, not many Macomb, MI, homeowners know that retaining walls can also be used as decorative articles. Unfortunately, damaged and old-looking retaining walls do more harm than good. If your retaining walls have developed cracks or have started to look old, hire an expert and have them fix all the problems with it. Further, retaining walls also tend to shift a lot. If you have been seeing gaps, you must act immediately — hire a brick paver expert and ask them to re-cap the gaps.

The small fixes mentioned in this article won’t cost you a fortune. They also won’t take a lot of time. However, they will certainly give a new life to your yard and prepare it to welcome the summer season as well as the guests you plan to have over soon.

Schedule a Quote from JJW Brick Today!

If you have any questions regarding brick pavers or hardscape design, contact us today.  Please feel free to give JJW Brick a call today for your Metro-Detroit, MI home.  We can be reached at 1-800-BRICK-PAVERS.  We hope to hear from you soon!

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