Hardscape Construction & Engineering

High-Performance Bedding (HPB) systems engineered for heavy vehicular loads and Canadian freeze-thaw cycles. Our interlocking driveways utilize a scientifically-designed aggregate base system consisting of:

• Subgrade Preparation: Laser-graded to ±5mm tolerance with compaction testing to 95% Standard Proctor Density
• Aggregate Base: 6-12" depth of granular 'A' gravel (MTO standards), compacted in 4" lifts using plate compactors and vibratory rollers
• Bedding Layer: 1" concrete sand screeded to precise elevation for proper drainage (minimum 2% slope)
• Paver Selection: 60mm thickness for pedestrian zones, 80mm for vehicular traffic, with chamfered or beveled edges for interlock strength
• Edge Restraint: Aluminum or composite edge restraints secured with 10" galvanized spikes at 12" intervals to prevent lateral creep
• Joint Sand: Polymeric or traditional silica sand vibrated into joints to lock pavers and inhibit weed growth

Permeable Paving Options: For stormwater management compliance, we install permeable interlocking concrete pavers (PICP) with open-graded aggregate bases that allow water infiltration at rates exceeding 100 inches/hour. This system reduces runoff, recharges groundwater, and often allows for larger paved areas under municipal bylaws.

Design Life: 30+ years with proper maintenance | Load Rating: H-20 (16,000 lbs per axle)

Installation of large-format slabs (porcelain/sintered stone), natural flagstone, and architectural pavers for pedestrian zones that balance aesthetics with structural performance. Our patio systems are engineered to resist settlement, drainage issues, and thermal movement.

• Large-Format Slabs (24"x24" to 48"x48"): Installed on pedestal systems or mortar-set on reinforced concrete slabs. Requires <1mm lippage tolerance to prevent trip hazards and ensure ADA compliance
• Natural Flagstone: 1.5"-2" thick irregular Pennsylvania bluestone, limestone, or granite set on compacted stone dust or mortar bed. Joint widths 0.5"-2" filled with polymeric sand or dry-pack mortar
• Porcelain Pavers: 20mm thick rectified-edge porcelain with slip-resistance rating R11-R13 (wet/dry). Non-porous surface resists staining, requires minimal sealing
• Drainage Engineering: Minimum 2% slope away from structures, with trench drains, channel drains, or dry wells integrated into design to prevent ponding
• Thermal Expansion: Soft joints or expansion joints every 12-15' to accommodate seasonal movement without cracking

Wet-Lay vs. Dry-Lay Methods: Wet-lay (mortar-set) provides superior stability for high-traffic areas and large slabs. Dry-lay (sand-set) offers easier repairs and better drainage for permeable applications.

Surface Options: Thermal (flamed), Honed, Brushed, Sandblasted | Slip Resistance: R9-R13 rating

Installation of thermal-resistant, anti-slip pool decks with custom-fabricated coping designed for safety, comfort, and longevity in aquatic environments. Pool surrounds must withstand constant moisture exposure, chemical contact, and barefoot traffic.

• Coping Installation: Cantilevered bullnose or square-edge coping extending 1.5"-2" over pool shell. Materials include natural stone (granite, limestone, travertine) or precast concrete with non-slip finish
• Thermal Properties: Light-colored stone (Ivory travertine, Pearl granite) reflects sunlight to maintain surface temperature <110°F in direct sun. Dark materials can exceed 140°F
• Slip Resistance: Minimum R11 rating (wet barefoot test). Achieved through thermal finishing (flamed granite), brushing, or tumbling for texture
• Saltwater Compatibility: Non-porous materials (porcelain, granite, sintered stone) resist salt degradation. Limestone and travertine require annual sealing
• Drainage Slope: 2-3% slope away from pool edge to prevent water accumulation. Perimeter drains or slot drains integrated for code compliance
• Expansion Joints: Coping isolated from deck with compressible foam or backer rod to allow independent movement during freeze-thaw cycles

Deck Systems: Options include interlocking pavers (permeable or standard), large-format porcelain slabs (2cm thickness), or natural stone tiles. All systems installed with 1/4" per foot slope for drainage.

Warranty: 10-year structural warranty | Safety Rating: Meets ASTM C1028 slip resistance standards

Engineering of load-bearing walls using segmental retaining wall (SRW) blocks, natural stone, or armour stone with geogrid reinforcement. Designed to resist lateral earth pressure, prevent soil erosion, and create tiered landscape elevations up to 12 feet high.

• Geotechnical Analysis: Soil testing to determine bearing capacity, shear strength, and drainage characteristics. Critical for walls >4 feet or supporting vehicular loads
• Base Preparation: 6-12" compacted granular base below frost line (48" depth in Ontario). Width = 60% of wall height minimum
• Geogrid Reinforcement: High-strength polypropylene or polyester grids embedded every 2-3 courses, extending 60-70% of wall height into backfill. Required for walls >4 feet or slopes >3:1
• Drainage System: 4" perforated weeping tile behind wall, wrapped in filter fabric, daylit to discharge point. Gravel backfill (clear stone 3/4") for 12" behind wall face
• Batter (Setback): 1-2° backward lean per course to increase stability and distribute load. Most SRW systems have built-in setback lips
• Cap Blocks: Adhesive-set cap units to prevent water infiltration into wall core and provide finished aesthetic

Material Options: Architectural concrete blocks (Techo-Bloc, Unilock, Belgard), natural armour stone (1-ton+ boulders for rustic aesthetics), or dry-stacked natural stone veneer (limestone, granite).

Engineering Requirements: Walls >1.2m (4 feet) require stamped structural drawings by Professional Engineer (P.Eng) in Ontario. Permit applications include soil reports, wall cross-sections, and drainage plans.

Load Rating: Designed for 60 PSF surcharge minimum | Safety Factor: 1.5 for sliding, 2.0 for overturning

Demolition of deteriorated concrete steps and reconstruction using solid stone treads, natural stone overlays, or interlocking step systems to restore structural integrity and curb appeal to aging residential entrances.

• Assessment & Demolition: Evaluation of existing foundation condition, rebar exposure, spalling concrete, and drainage failures. Safe removal of existing concrete with disposal to certified facilities
• Solid Stone Steps: 7" rise x 12" tread minimum per Ontario Building Code. Materials include 2"-3" thick granite, limestone, or bluestone treads supported by concrete block or poured footings
• Stone Veneering: Thin-cut natural stone (1"-1.5" thick) adhered to structurally-sound concrete substrate using modified thinset mortar. Cost-effective alternative to full replacement
• Modular Step Systems: Pre-engineered interlocking step units (Techo-Bloc, Unilock) with integrated risers and treads. Faster installation, uniform dimensions
• Foundation Repair: Underpinning with helical piers or micro-piles if settlement detected. New footings poured below frost line (48" depth) for long-term stability
• Drainage Upgrades: Integration of catch basins, trench drains, or re-grading to direct water away from foundation and prevent ice accumulation

Accessibility Compliance: Can integrate code-compliant handrails (34"-38" height), non-slip nosing strips, and proper rise/run ratios to meet AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) requirements.

Typical Timeline: 3-5 days for standard front entrance | Warranty: 5-year workmanship, 25+ year material life