Hardscapes – American Landscape

Hardscape Maintenance: 4 Simple Steps to Prevent Winter Damage

November 7, 2025/in Hardscapes/by Justin

Many Wisconsin homeowners head into fall with a familiar list of outdoor chores. Patio furniture is cleaned and stored, gardens are cleaned and covered for the season, and tools are packed away.

Hardscapes are often overlooked in this process because patios, walkways, and driveways seem sturdy enough to handle winter without much attention. It is usually not until Spring that the impact of freezing temperatures becomes clear: loose pavers, small cracks, or sand washed out of paver joints.

This is where hardscape maintenance makes a difference.

Taking a little time in the fall to clean and inspect these areas can prevent those surprises and keep outdoor spaces in good condition through the winter months.

How Winter Weather Damages Hardscape

Hardscapes face some of its biggest challenges during Wisconsin winters.

Freezing temperatures, snow, and moisture all place stress on stone, concrete, and paver surfaces.

Several factors can contribute to wear during the winter months:

Moisture seeps into small openings and freezes, causing surfaces to shift or crack
De-icing products can break down surface coatings or leave behind residue
Metal shovels or plow blades can scratch or loosen pavers
Prolonged snow or ice buildup adds weight and pressure to already vulnerable areas

Hardscape with drainage issues is especially vulnerable. Joints, mortar seams, and areas where water tends to collect are often the first to show signs of movement as temperatures drop.

Recognizing these potential trouble spots helps guide which tasks to prioritize as you move into fall hardscape maintenance.

4 Steps for Fall Hardscape Maintenance

Understanding what winter can do to hardscape materials makes it easier to see why fall upkeep matters. A few focused tasks can go a long way in preventing issues, and the four steps below are a good place to start.

1. Clean All Surfaces

Start by cleaning patios, walkways, driveways, and other hardscape areas.

Fallen leaves, dirt, and organic debris can retain moisture on the surface, increasing the risk of staining and slippery spots once temperatures drop.

Sweeping and rinsing these areas helps remove buildup and prepares the surface for any additional maintenance you may need to complete.

If you notice mildew or algae, a gentle cleaning solution or a light pressure wash can help restore the surface. This also makes it easier to spot any cracks, loose pavers, or other issues that may need attention.

2. Inspect for Wear or Damage

Once surfaces are clean, take time to look for any signs of wear. Minor issues are much easier to catch in the fall, and addressing them now can help prevent larger problems in the spring.

As you move through your patio, walkway, or driveway, look for:

Loose or uneven pavers
Fine cracks in concrete or stone
Mortar that is cracking or crumbling
Joints that appear wider or washed out
Areas that feel unstable or shift underfoot

Edges and transitions between materials often show problems first, so give those areas a closer look.

If something appears to be moving more than it should or seems beyond basic upkeep, having a professional hardscape specialist evaluate the issue can help prevent it from becoming a larger repair later on.

3. Check Drainage and Runoff

Good drainage is essential as winter approaches, since standing water can seep into small openings and freeze. This creates pressure that may cause pavers to shift or crack. A few quick checks in the fall can help reduce that risk.

As you assess your hardscape areas, look for:

Spots where water pools after rain
Low areas that may need leveling or added joint sand
Slopes that no longer direct water away from the surface
Debris blocking nearby drains or areas where water should flow freely

Correcting these issues now helps limit moisture buildup and reduce stress on patios, walkways, and retaining walls throughout the winter season.

4. Plan for Snow and Ice

Preparing for winter snow and ice helps protect hardscape surfaces from unnecessary wear. The tools and products you choose can make a noticeable difference in how well patios, walkways, and driveways hold up through the season.

Consider the following:

Use non-corrosive de-icing products that are less likely to damage stone, concrete, or pavers
Avoid metal shovels or plow blades that can scratch surfaces or loosen individual pavers
clear snow promptly to reduce the chance of ice forming and putting added stress on the hardscape
Designate specific areas for stacking shoveled or plowed snow to avoid piling heavy loads on vulnerable spots

A simple plan for snow and ice management can help minimize winter damage and keep hardscape areas safer and easier to navigate.

Protect Your Hardscape with Help from American Landscape

Taking time to prepare hardscape areas in the fall helps them withstand the challenges of a Wisconsin winter.

Simple tasks like cleaning, checking for repairs, and managing drainage can make a meaningful difference once temperatures drop.

If you discover areas that need attention or want guidance on maintaining your outdoor surfaces, the team at American Landscape can give you the direction you need.

Our professionals can assess your hardscape and help you make informed decisions before winter arrives.

Have questions? Contact American Landscape Today!

6 Fire Pit Designs to Extend Your Outdoor Season

August 28, 2025/in News, Hardscapes, Landscaping/by Mary Monday

As much as we enjoy the family-friendly events of summer, like Lavender Fest here in Menomonee Falls, the hot, sticky weather can leave us dreaming of crisp evenings and cooler days ahead.

Soon enough, the humidity will give way to that first refreshing breeze of autumn. Picture yourself on the patio, enjoying the fading light as the air finally cools, and imagining how to make nights like this last longer.

That’s where a cozy fire pit comes in. With the soft crackle of flames and the warm glow casting light across the yard, it transforms a simple evening into something memorable.

Whether you prefer the ease of a portable setup or the beauty of a custom-built feature, the right fire pit makes your backyard the place everyone wants to gather, long after the summer heat has passed.

Why Add a Fire Pit to Your Outdoor Living Space?

Aesthetics aside, a fire pit has a way of drawing people in.

It naturally becomes the place where conversations linger, where friends gather a little closer, and where you can unwind after a long day. Beyond the atmosphere it creates, a well-planned fire pit adds function and value to your property.

A well-planned fire pit can anchor your backyard design, define a seating area, and make your outdoor space usable well into the cooler months.

When integrated thoughtfully into your overall landscape, it’s more than just an accessory — it’s an investment in both the beauty and the livability of your home.

Integrate Fire Pits into Your Hardscape Design-Build Plan

The best fire pit designs are those that feel like they belong, seamlessly integrated into your outdoor living space rather than added as an afterthought.

Planning your fire pit as part of a complete hardscape design-build project ensures it blends seamlessly with patios, seating walls, or even built-in fireplaces for a cohesive, upscale appearance.

Choosing materials like pavers, natural stone, and accent lighting ensures that your built-in fire pit not only complements your home’s style but also withstands Wisconsin’s changing seasons.

With a design-build approach, every detail from size and placement to finish and features is tailored to your lifestyle, so your fire feature feels like it has always been part of the plan.

6 Fire Pit Designs That Turn Up the Heat on Outdoor Living

There’s a wide range of fire pit designs that can enhance your outdoor living space. The best choice comes down to your style, space, and how you plan to use it.

Here are six options that combine warmth, function, and lasting appeal.

1. Built-In Stone Fire Pits

A built-in fire pit made from natural stone offers a timeless look that blends beautifully with any outdoor living space. This style is perfect for homeowners who want a permanent feature that integrates seamlessly with patios, seating walls, or other hardscape design-build elements.

Stone is both durable and weather-resistant, making it ideal for Wisconsin’s year-round conditions. With endless options for shape, size, and stone type, you can create a custom look that complements your home’s architecture while providing a reliable gathering place season after season.

2. Gas Fire Pits

For homeowners who want warmth without the upkeep, a gas built-in fire pit offers instant ambiance at the flip of a switch. This clean, modern option is perfect for low-maintenance outdoor living, eliminating the need to store wood or manage ashes.

Gas fire pits can be incorporated into columns, walls, or custom tables as part of a hardscape design-build project, giving you flexibility in both form and function. They’re also an excellent choice for consistent heat output and ease of use, making them a practical yet stylish addition to your backyard.

3. Fire Pit Tables

A fire pit table combines the warmth of a flame with the practicality of a surface for drinks or dining. This versatile option works exceptionally well in smaller patios where a larger built-in feature might feel overwhelming.

Available in both portable and built-in styles, fire pit tables can be tailored to match surrounding materials and finishes, ensuring they fit seamlessly with your space.

They add function without sacrificing style, making them a smart solution for outdoor areas that need to work hard in every season.

4. Sunken Fire Pits

A sunken fire pit creates an inviting, enclosed gathering area that feels cozy and protected. Lowering the seating area below ground level provides natural wind protection while adding a dramatic focal point to your backyard.

This style pairs beautifully with built-in seating walls or retaining features and works best as part of a larger landscape redesign. While it requires more planning and excavation than other styles, the end result is a unique, intimate space that draws people in and encourages lingering.

5. Fire Bowls & Portable Options

Fire bowls and other portable styles offer flexibility for those who want warmth and ambiance without committing to a permanent structure. They’re ideal for renters, smaller spaces, or anyone looking for a quick seasonal upgrade.

Many models are gas-powered or self-contained, making them easy to move, store, or reposition as your needs change.

With options ranging from sleek modern designs to rustic finishes, portable fire features can fit seamlessly into any outdoor setup.

6. Smokeless Inserts

Smokeless inserts are a smart upgrade for both new and existing fire pits, offering the warmth of a wood-burning fire without the heavy smoke.

Designed to improve airflow and burn efficiency, they create a more comfortable experience for guests and reduce lingering odors.

These inserts work with both wood and gas systems, making them a versatile choice for many backyard setups. As more homeowners look for clean-burning, low-maintenance solutions, smokeless designs are quickly becoming one of the most popular fire pit features.

Safety and Placement Tips

A fire pit can be a beautiful addition to your yard, but it needs to be installed and used with safety in mind. Keep these guidelines in mind:

Maintain distance from your home, fences, trees, and other flammable structures.
Consider wind direction when choosing the location to keep smoke away from seating areas.
Plan seating thoughtfully so guests can enjoy the warmth without sitting too close to the flames.
Follow local codes and permitting requirements before beginning any installation.
Hire a professional installer to ensure your fire pit is safe, durable, and built to last.

American Landscape Builds Fire Pits Tailored to Your Outdoor Living Needs

The right fire pit can extend your outdoor season, create a natural gathering spot, and enhance the overall appeal of your landscape. Our team designs and builds custom features that match your style, fit your space, and stand up to Wisconsin’s weather.

Are you considering adding a fire pit to your outdoor living space? Let American Landscape help you create a feature that brings warmth, style, and value to your home.

Contact our team today to get started.

5 Eco-Friendly Walkway Materials for Your Outdoor Space

October 14, 2024/in Sustainable Landscaping, Hardscapes/by Mary Monday

Choosing the right materials for your outdoor space isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making choices that benefit both your home and the environment.

Eco-friendly walkway materials are becoming increasingly popular as more homeowners look for ways to create beautiful, sustainable landscapes.

Whether planning a new pathway or upgrading an existing one, selecting eco-friendly materials is a step towards a greener future that offers long-lasting benefits for you and your outdoor space.

Why Choose Eco-Friendly Walkway Materials?

Opting for eco-friendly walkway materials is more than just a trend—it’s a thoughtful choice that benefits both your outdoor space and the environment.

First and foremost, these materials help reduce your carbon footprint by minimizing the use of non-renewable resources and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. When you choose sustainable options like permeable pavers or natural stones, you’re contributing to a healthier planet.

Beyond the environmental impact, eco-friendly materials often offer long-term cost savings. Many of these options are highly durable, requiring less maintenance and fewer replacements over time. This saves money and reduces waste, further supporting sustainability efforts.

Additionally, eco-friendly walkway materials can enhance the natural beauty of your garden, seamlessly blending with the surrounding landscape. By picking materials that go well with nature, you create a space that blends seamlessly with the landscape and creates a more harmonious outdoor environment.

5 Eco-Friendly Walkway Materials to Consider

When choosing materials for your outdoor walkways, eco-friendly options enhance your space’s beauty and support sustainable practices. Here’s a look at five excellent eco-friendly walkway materials that blend functionality with environmental benefits:

1. Gravel

Gravel is a popular choice for walkways due to its natural look, durability, low cost and ease of installation. For example, pea gravel creates a soft, natural surface that complements informal garden settings, while crushed granite offers excellent stability and a more structured appearance suited for modern landscapes.

Gravel allows for excellent drainage, making it a permeable option that helps manage water runoff and reduces erosion. This is particularly useful in areas prone to heavy rainfall.

2. Decomposed Granite

Decomposed granite offers a compact, natural appearance that blends well with garden environments. For example, decomposed granite pathways create a solid, stable surface that remains resilient under foot traffic, making it perfect for garden trails or informal paths.

Its natural look and easy maintenance make it a popular choice for eco-friendly landscaping. Decomposed granite is often used in xeriscaping projects, where water conservation is key, providing a visually appealing surface that complements drought-tolerant plants.

3. Recycled Concrete Pavers

Recycled concrete pavers are an excellent example of sustainable material use. Made from repurposed concrete, these pavers can feature varied designs, such as interlocking paver systems or mosaic patterns, adding both strength and aesthetic versatility to walkways.

They help reduce waste from demolished structures and lower the environmental impact of construction materials.

For instance, a walkway made from recycled concrete pavers might include patterns that mimic natural stone, providing a stylish and eco-friendly solution for outdoor spaces.

4. Natural Stone

Natural stone is prized for its longevity and aesthetic appeal. Materials like flagstone, often used in classic stepping stone paths, or slate, which can be cut into tiles for a sophisticated look, are durable and can be sourced with minimal environmental impact.

For example, Flagstone is used in residential and commercial landscapes due to its strength and timeless appeal. Its natural variations in color and texture ensure that each walkway is unique, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the outdoor space while providing a durable surface.

5. Permeable Pavers

Permeable pavers are designed to manage water efficiently, allowing it to pass through the surface and into the ground. Permeable interlocking concrete pavers, for example, help reduce runoff and support sustainable water management.

These pavers combine traditional charm with modern functionality, making them practical for residential and garden walkways. Their ability to handle storm water effectively helps prevent flooding and erosion while offering an attractive solution for eco-conscious landscaping.

Key Considerations When Choosing Eco-Friendly Walkway Materials

Selecting suitable eco-friendly walkway materials involves more than just choosing a sustainable option. Several key factors should guide your decision to ensure that your walkway meets both functional and aesthetic needs.

Climate

The local climate is crucial in determining which materials will perform best. For instance, gravel or permeable pavers that facilitate drainage in regions with heavy rainfall can help prevent water pooling and erosion. Composed granite or crushed stone might be preferable in arid climates due to their durability and low maintenance needs.

Soil Type

The type of soil in your garden influences the performance of certain materials. Materials like gravel and crushed stone can provide a stable surface if your soil is sandy or loose. Conversely, if you have clay soil that can become muddy and compacted, opting for materials with good drainage properties, such as permeable pavers, can help mitigate water runoff and soil erosion issues.

Intended Use of the Pathway

To select the most suitable material, consider how the walkway will be used. Crushed stone or recycled concrete pavers offer durability and resistance to wear in high-traffic areas. Natural stone or decomposed granite can provide both aesthetic appeal and functionality for decorative pathways in a garden. The intended use will guide you towards materials that balance durability with design considerations.

Sourcing Materials Locally

To further enhance the sustainability of your walkway, prioritize sourcing materials locally. This practice helps reduce transportation emissions and supports local economies. For example, locally quarried natural stone or regional crushed stone minimizes the carbon footprint of transporting materials over long distances. Additionally, local materials often blend more harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.

Aesthetic Appeal and Landscape Integration

The visual impact of your walkway is as essential as its functionality. Choose materials that complement the overall design of your landscape. Natural stone offers a classic look that pairs well with traditional gardens, while crushed stone or decomposed granite can suit modern or minimalist designs. Consider the materials’ colors, textures, and patterns to ensure they enhance the visual harmony of your outdoor space. By considering these factors, you can select eco-friendly walkway materials that align with your sustainability goals and meet practical and aesthetic needs, creating a beautiful and functional walkway.

Eco-Friendly Walkways From American Landscape

Selecting eco-friendly walkway materials benefits the environment and enhances the beauty and functionality of outdoor areas. By focusing on climate, soil type, and local sourcing, you ensure that your pathway is both practical and stylish.

Ready to design the perfect eco-friendly walkway? Contact American Landscape today.

Pro Secrets for Maintaining Your Hardscape: 4 Essential Tips

September 5, 2024/in Hardscapes/by Mary Monday

Your hardscape, whether it’s a charming stone patio, a sleek concrete walkway, or a sturdy retaining wall, is a significant investment that adds beauty and functionality to your outdoor space. However, maintaining your hardscape is crucial to ensuring it remains an attractive and durable feature of your home.

Regular upkeep preserves its appearance and extends its lifespan – saving you time and money in the long run. Before jumping into hardscape maintenance tips, it’s important to have a basic understanding of what hardscape maintenance is and why it is so essential.

What Exactly is Hardscape Maintenance?

Hardscape maintenance encompasses the tasks and techniques used to keep your hardscape in top shape. Since hardscape installation is an investment, you want to be sure you are doing your due diligence to keep your investment in good condition for years.

Unfortunately, most homeowners don’t realize there is no one-size-fits-all approach to hardscape maintenance. Each feature has different needs, depending on its composition, location, and purpose.

Common questions homeowners ask when it comes to hardscape maintenance include:

How to clean hardscapes?
How often should I clean my hardscape surfaces?
What are the best products for hardscape upkeep?
What should I do if I notice cracks or shifting in my hardscape?

These are all great questions, and the answers will vary based on the hardscape feature in question. To get you started, we’ve outlined a few hardscape maintenance tips and tricks that can be applied to most hardscape features.

4 Important Tips for Maintaining Your Hardscape

Hardscapes for the Modern Design Style Landscape

Proper maintenance is essential to keep your hardscape looking pristine and functioning well for years to come. By following these four important tips, you can ensure that your outdoor spaces remain beautiful and durable through every season.

1. Regular Cleaning

Believe it or not, many people assume that if it’s outdoors, it doesn’t need cleaning. This is especially true for those in the Midwest, where summer rains can appear out of nowhere and wash away some of that muck and yuck.

Unfortunately, that’s not the case when it comes to your hardscapes. Sure, weather can affect how clean your hardscape looks, but it still needs regular cleaning to keep it looking its best.

Have you ever seen one of those power washing videos where a perfectly clean concrete patio is given a whole new look by being shot with a high-powered machine and proper cleaning solution?

That’s one option for your hardscape features; But you don’t always have to dig out the heavy machinery. Instead, consider:

Sweeping your hardscape areas regularly
Cleaning up spills as they happen, usually with a simple soap and water solution
Removing weeds and other plant growth that can appear in cracks and crevices

2. Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance helps you shift your hardscape care from a reactive to a proactive stance. A good preventative maintenance plan can help you address potential issues before they become big problems.

For instance, if a retaining wall starts to crack or a patio starts to sink, you can get ahead of the problem and address it before it gets worse and becomes a safety and financial concern.

Preventative maintenance is pretty simple, too. It typically involves:

Regular Inspections: Check your hardscape surfaces for any signs of damage, such as cracks, shifting, or unevenness.
Weed and Moss Control: Regularly remove weeds and moss that can grow between pavers and on surfaces to prevent them from causing further damage.
Proper Drainage: Ensure proper drainage around your hardscape to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to erosion and other issues.
Immediate Repairs: Address any minor issues, such as small cracks or loose pavers, as soon as you notice them to prevent them from becoming larger, more costly problems.

3. Seasonal Maintenance

Caring for your hardscape throughout the year is essential for preserving its longevity – especially in the Wisconsin area, where the seasonal changes can wreak havoc on hardscape surfaces. Here are some key practices to ensure your hardscape remains in top condition through every season:

Winterizing Your Hardscape

- Snow and Ice Removal: Use plastic shovels or snow blowers to clear snow without scratching or damaging the surface. Avoid using salt or chemical deicers that can erode materials; instead, opt for sand or cat litter for traction.

Spring Preparation

- Thorough Cleaning: Once the snow melts, thoroughly clean your hardscape to remove any accumulated dirt, debris, and winter grime.
- Damage Inspection: Look for any cracks, loose pavers, or other signs of wear and tear caused by the winter weather. Address these issues promptly to prevent them from worsening.

Summer Maintenance

- Regular Sweeping and Washing: Keep your hardscape clean by sweeping regularly and washing with a hose or pressure washer to remove dust and stains.
- Removing Unwanted Vegetation: Summer is prime time for all types of unwanted vegetation, including weeds and moss. Regularly remove any invasive plants, moss, and other growth to prevent them from causing damage to your hardscape.

Fall Preparation

- Leaf and Debris Removal: Clear fallen leaves and other debris from your hardscape to prevent staining and potential damage from organic material breaking down.

By implementing these seasonal maintenance practices, you can protect your hardscape from the harsh effects of Wisconsin’s weather and ensure it remains a beautiful, functional part of your outdoor space for years to come.

4. Restoration and Repairs

Even with diligent maintenance, hardscapes can experience wear and tear over time. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining your outdoor spaces’ functionality and aesthetic appeal. Here’s how to effectively handle restoration and repairs:

Identifying and Understanding Causes of Damage

Effectively managing repairs involves not only inspecting for visible issues but also understanding the specific causes of damage. Early intervention can prevent minor problems from becoming major concerns. So, what should you be looking for?

Inadequate Drainage: Poor drainage can lead to water pooling and erosion, causing cracks and instability.
Soil Shifting: Changes in soil volume, often due to freeze-thaw cycles or settling, can result in uneven surfaces and shifting pavers.
Heavy Loads: Excessive weight from vehicles or equipment can stress and damage hardscape elements.
Vegetation Growth: Roots from nearby plants or trees can push against pavers or walls, causing movement and cracks.

Understanding these causes helps in addressing the root problems effectively and ensuring a long-lasting repair.

Once damage is assessed, you can undertake specific repairs to restore your hardscape’s integrity and appearance. Proper repair techniques will ensure a long-lasting fix and maintain the overall look of your space.

Fixing Cracks: For small cracks in concrete or masonry, use a suitable crack filler or sealant. For larger or more significant cracks, consulting a professional might be necessary to ensure a durable repair.
Releveling and Resettling: If pavers or stones have shifted or settled unevenly, you may need to relevel them. This involves lifting the pavers, adjusting the base material, and resetting them to ensure a stable, even surface.
Replacing Damaged Elements: Replace any broken or severely damaged pavers, bricks, or stones. Matching new elements to the existing ones in size and color ensures a cohesive look and maintains the visual appeal of your hardscape.

Maintaining Your Hardscape with American Landscape

Maintaining your hardscape is crucial for preserving its beauty and functionality. By following these essential tips—regular cleaning, preventive care, seasonal upkeep, and timely repairs—you can ensure your outdoor spaces stay attractive and durable for years.

Ready to give your hardscape the attention it deserves? Contact American Landscape for expert guidance and services to maintain and restore your outdoor spaces.

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Creating a Dancer-Friendly Patio with Edible Gardens at the baaree

June 1, 2023/in Hardscapes/by Mary Monday

If you have had the pleasure of stopping into the baaree in Thiensville, you have no doubt noticed their amazing outdoor space. It is a respite from the bustle of everyday life. A spot to relax and enjoy live music, while surrounded by a variety of edible garden areas. It suits the baaree, which gets its name from a Nepalese word which means “garden.” The space is a hybrid concept that brings together aspects of a traditional German beer garden with elements of a community garden. We were thrilled to help them bring this concept to life.

Landscape Design Delivers “Must Haves”

The baaree beer garden patio project had a few “must haves.” We were charged with creating an inviting outdoor hospitality space with a solid surface to dance to live music. Keeping the need for upkeep and ongoing maintenance minimal was also key. The timeline called for completing the garden in time for patrons to enjoy it starting in spring.

Selection of patio materials was guided by a need to stay within budget and ensure that whatever was selected could be readily obtained. The clay pavers we chose married the existing arts and crafts architecture of the restaurant to the gardens. We carefully placed patterns to encourage flow and highlight focal points of interest, like the stage and bar.

Sustainable & Edible Gardens

Adding to the ambiance, functionality and sustainability are the multiple garden areas that flank the patio space. This edible landscape includes hops (the same used in Schlitz original brew, that made Milwaukee famous!), blueberry shrubs, a variety of peppers, pole beans, and even a plum tree. All of these ingredients make their way into the food prepared at the baaree! Adding to the sustainability is that the patio is pitched so that water sheet drains into the gardens, minimizing stormwater runoff and providing hydration for the plants.

You can hear from Katie Jean Fedorski, Landscape Designer in this video walkthrough of the project:

https://fb.watch/kRVD_m6Qdk/

Whether you are looking to transform your own backyard or a commercial space, our landscape designers are ready to help you make your dreams a reality. Get in touch today. www.amerlandscape.com/contact.

A Guide to Permeable Pavers

September 28, 2022/in Hardscapes/by American Landscape

An Environmentally-Friendly Option for Your Hardscape Project

Whether you’re required to use them or you just want to know more about what they are, permeable pavers are a hot topic these days. Local requirements are often the driver of these conversations, but many homeowners are also becoming more aware of the benefits of adding a permeable paver patio or using permeable pavers for a walkway and/or driveway.

As more municipalities are becoming concerned with the problems storm water runoff create, there have been increasing restrictions placed on the amount of impervious surface allowed on a property. For example, lakefront property owners are often limited as to how many square feet of impervious material can be used in their landscape. It is not without good reason that these restrictions exist. Storm water runoff can overwhelm sewer systems and/or increase the number of pollutants the end up in area lakes and rivers.

According to the MMSD, permeable pavers have several benefits:

Helps protect our streams and lakes from pollution by reducing storm water runoff
Reduces erosion and flooding risks associated with high runoff volumes
Needs less salt for de-icing in the winter
Manages a lot of run off in a small space
Absorbs less heat than asphalt in the summer because of its lighter colors, thus cooling and humidifying the ambient air

What are Permeable Pavers?

Permeable pavers replicate the natural process that occurs on the ground’s surface. The permeable pavement system allows water to pass through the joints and seep into the ground naturally rather than turning into runoff headed directly into the sewer system. Permeable pavers also filter out pollutants such as contaminants from vehicles, de-icing salt and chemical products, keeping them from polluting waterways.

Aesthetics of Permeable Pavers

A range of styles are available for permeable pavers, which means you will not sacrifice the aesthetics of your hardscape project. Our trusted suppliers, like Techo-Bloc, Unilock and Belgard have a wide range of styles and colors to ensure your permeable paver project complements the look of your property.

Permeable Paver System Installation

The process of installing permeable pavers is a bit different from traditional paver installation. Permeable pavers are just one part of a complete system—with various layers and sizes of crushed stone to make the system permeable.

For this reason, permeable pavers are installed using layers of varying-sized stone or aggregate underneath to filter and direct storm water to underground aquifers. Proper base preparation is necessary to accommodate all of the water that is going to be percolating into the gravel beneath the pavers. It’s the installation of the base that is critical to the success of your permeable paver patio, walkway, or driveway.

We invested in equipment recently to help streamline the installation of a permeable paver parking lot for a commercial customer. Rather than requiring human labor to individually place pavers one by one, this equipment allows a pallet of pavers to be placed – saving time and preserving the health of our employees. You can see it in action below:

If you are interested in learning more about leveraging permeable pavers on your property, feel free to contact one of our experts today. We can help you design, select materials, and ensure proper installation of your hardscape project. Call 262-252-4260 or visit www.amerlandscape.com to learn more.