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Hardscape
Hardscape is all of the fixed elements of your yard.
Decking, walls, retaining walls, fireplaces, fire pits, barbecues, planter boxes and others all represent hardscape.
Chief among these is decking, because everyone needs decking. Concrete is generally the least expensive decking material and it provides for a long lived surface and it can be installed in any shape and configuration know to mankind. Concrete can be colored, stained, or laminated. You can broom finish the concrete, tool trowel it, salt finish it or stamp it. While there are a great number of choices involved, the architectural theme and your lifestyle will make the choice rather obvious as you move through the design process.
Pavers have become the material of choice, as manufacturers have been able to create high quality product with variety and competitive price points. As you know, the Romans as well as others built roads of cobble pavers that are still in use after 2000 years. Modern pavers are available in granite, travertine, other natural stones and in concrete.
Concrete interlocking pavers are a very good value. They are made with 8000 psi concrete, they come in multiple colors and patterns, they are next to indestructible, they move with the earth instead of cracking and they can be easily replaced should they become damaged or stained. Another interesting characteristic is that pavers dissipate heat far better than slab concrete, a major consideration for desert communities.
Walls and vertical surfaces also provide brilliant opportunities for creative expression. Stucco, smooth coat stucco, tile, medallions, cultured and natural stone veneers can dramatically enhance your outdoor environment.