Hardscape Your Yard with Patio Block and Pavers 

Hardscape features such as patios, walkways and retaining walls are great ways to add architectural elements to your home landscape. You should plan with the same level of care for these stone features as you would for a great landscaping design. Use this guide to help you prepare for all your hardscape projects.

Hardscape Planning

Before you begin your project, take some time to plan it out. Here are some ideas:

• Sketch your yard's boundaries. Mark off major features like the house, trees, driveway, etc. Be sure to note where people are most likely to walk and mark the placement of windows and doors to help you plan logically.
• Draw view lines on your plan from windows and doors. Beauty elements like patios, walkways or benches go along or around these lines so you can see them from your home. Plan to place utility elements, like grills or trash cans, outside the view lines.
• Make plans for any pathways to be at least 3 feet wide.
• Use steps or retaining walls to create different levels and add depth to the landscape.
• Highlight entry and exit points with plantings or special paving designs.
• Highlight entry and exit points with plantings or special paving designs.
• Remember that grills require clearance on all sides from flammable material. When planning for placement, follow the manufacturer's instructions and any placement restrictions for your area.
• When considering a hardscape project, make sure you're aware of any building codes or homeowner association rules that might apply to your work.
• If you'll be adding outdoor lights, remember that patios with pavers need to follow these guidelines for space: solar paver lights patio lights path lights 

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