Hardscaping covers patios, walkways, retaining walls, and fire pits, while masonry focuses on building fireplaces, walls, and custom outdoor structures using brick, stone, or concrete blocks. For example, patios and walkways can be built with concrete slabs, bricks, or stone, while masonry involves specific techniques for constructing fireplaces, walls, or custom-built features.

Besides adding strength, hardscaping makes a garden or backyard more inviting with defined pathways, seating areas, and gathering spaces. 

Planning a patio hardscape? The right materials and tools from a hardscape store help get the job done right. Mixing different hardscape features can turn any outdoor space into something both functional and visually appealing.

Yes, paver blocks are a major part of hardscaping, and they are used to build patios, pathways, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens. Some examples of these include patios, BBQ grills, fire pits, fireplaces, custom BBQ islands built according to customer specifications, pizza ovens, and pathways designed using pavers, pavestone, slate, and firestone EPDM among others. Other surfaces, such as stamped concrete, provide a similar aesthetic with a customizable finish.

A well-planned backyard hardscape makes any outdoor space more functional and inviting. With the right pavers and materials, you can create a patio that’s solid, stylish, and built for both relaxation and entertaining.

Hardscape and landscape differ in the materials used. Hardscape includes concrete, stone, brick, and metal, which create patios, walkways, and retaining walls. These elements add structure and function to outdoor spaces. For example, a patio hardscape can be built using materials from a hardscape store or paving stones like stonegate sod. Firestone bonding adhesive also helps keep structures strong and stable.

On the other hand, landscaping includes softscape elements like plants, trees, and a lawn, which bring greenery and life to outdoor spaces. While hardscaping focuses on non-living elements, both work together to create a balanced and appealing landscape design. Adding hardscape features alongside plants and grass can make an outdoor area both functional and visually inviting.

Some hardscapes include gravel pathways and retaining walls, while softscapes consist of trees and shrubs. Gravel is considered hardscape because it is non-living and is used to make retaining walls and pathways. It is also commonly used for drainage solutions, helping to prevent water buildup around hardscape installations. In many cases, it is paired with sand to stabilize pavers and prevent shifting.

Hardscaping with natural materials like natural stone, wood, and gravel and adding features such as a water feature provide the backbone and framework for an outdoor space, while softscaping brings in nature’s beauty. Planning both together improves appearance and usability, creating a harmonious and inviting landscape where visitors feel at home.

Yes, hardscape is a smart investment because it adds functionality and boosts property value. Even on a budget, adding pavers, retaining walls, and outdoor seating areas can make a big difference in how a space looks and works.

These materials are built to last and hold up in different climate conditions, making them a low-maintenance, long-term solution. Features like patios, walkways, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and garden paths create an inviting outdoor space that’s easy to enjoy year-round.

Patios, walkways, driveways, and fire pits are key parts of hardscaping. A patio made from brick, stone, or concrete adds both style and function to an outdoor space.

Some designs include a deck for extra outdoor living space or built-in furniture for a more comfortable setup. Mulch is often used along edges for a clean, natural look. Materials like bluestone and limestone create durable and stylish surfaces, while granite adds a polished, high-end touch to edging and pathways.

Hardscape elements are chosen not just for their function but also for their aesthetics, making outdoor spaces more visually appealing and enjoyable. Stop by our Glenwood Springs, CO hardscape store to find the best materials for your hardscape project!