You might be an expert in landscaping and increasing your home’s curb appeal, but hardscaping is not as simple! A good hardscape contractor will have years of training and experience to make sure your job gets done right the first time. Here are some projects that we recommend you don’t do yourself, but rather have done by a professional here at TWI Hardscape in Atlanta.


Paver Patios & Pathways

While connecting destinations is usually the purpose, a path or walkway can also be designed simply as a decorative piece. Paths can be bordered by colorful flowers and plants to magnify the beauty of your stonework. Mix textures into your walkway or path to create a mosaic look that will engage the senses. To create a visual impact, use steps and terraced transitions along the route.  If you aren’t sure exactly what you’d like, take a moment to chat with our hardscape experts and create a vision for your yard.

If you’re going to put the time, money, and energy into something of visual impact for your home or business, we don’t suggest attempting paver patio installations.  Know when to defer your project to the pros – it will last longer and be sturdier than many DIY projects we’ve come across.


Covered Structures

Custom-designed, handmade, covered, outdoor living areas can give you a year-round space for relaxing, entertainment, or gatherings. Unfortunately, covered structures are highly complex; they require extensive knowledge and building experience. You will also need a permit in order to get the project started. If you skip this step, you could face financial and litigation problems when it comes time to sell your home.


Retaining Walls

While some outdoor walls can be crafted by hand, we highly recommend that you consult an architect or mason to help you with your retaining wall projects.  Retaining walls are usually meant to keep areas of land from washing away due to erosion; you don’t want your wall to wash away, too! There’s no shame in hiring a professional to get the job done right; this will extend the lifespan of your retaining wall and will ensure that the project is safe and functional.


Pools

Building a pool for your home will be a massive investment, so you’ll obviously need to hire a professional. It would be extremely difficult to DIY a pool on your own, but it isn’t unheard of.  Take our advice and call an expert so that your project gets done right the first time.


Drainage Solutions

This project is definitely an area for an expert; drainage is important because it has an impact on everything else you design in your yard.  In fact, improper drainage is the number one reason why most DIY hardscape projects fail. If your patio isn’t installed properly to accommodate a proper drainage plan, you run the risk of your entire project being washed away, waterlogged, or worse.

The “Do It Yourself” trend has become increasingly popular among homeowners.  With all of the online resources available, many feel that they can tackle most outdoor living projects. While the informational tools at your disposal may be adequate, save yourself the time and hassle; it will cost you more money to repair mistakes than it will to do the job right the first time around. Here at TWI Hardscape, we’re happy to chat with you about your projects and visions for your yard; we want to help you make those dreams a reality.  Contact us for a free consultation, or simply to chat about your next project!