Patio, Walkway, Step or Retaining Feature?
Hardscape covers several types of site work, from paver walks and small patios to masonry steps and limited retaining features. The use of the area should be defined before materials are chosen.
A walking path has different base and drainage priorities from a sitting patio. Retaining work introduces soil pressure and can require a more structural design than a simple surface installation.
Base Condition, Drainage and Settlement
Hardscape performance depends heavily on what is below the visible material. Poor compaction, trapped water and unstable soil can cause pavers or slabs to move even when the surface was installed neatly.
Existing settlement should therefore be evaluated before individual units are reset. If water repeatedly runs through the same area, drainage may need to be corrected along with the surface repair.
Repair Existing Work or Install New?
Localized sinking, loose pavers or cracked sections may be repairable when the surrounding base remains sound. Widespread settlement can point to a larger base problem that makes spot repair temporary.
Deck & Patio Construction has its own page when the project is primarily a framed deck or broader outdoor-living build. Masonry & Concrete Repair is more specific when damaged brick, block or concrete is the main issue.