1. Highlight the Drama with Uplighting

Don’t light up everything. True beauty lives in the contrast between light and shadow. An overlit tree can distract from a balanced yard.

Uplighting shines light upward to display canopy shapes against the dark night sky. But different trees require different beam widths, as lighting experts at Kichler note in their guide to structural design.

Matching the light beam to the shape of your tree prevents light spill.

Small Trees:
A single 35° floodlight grazes the trunk and fills the lower canopy.

Medium Trees:
Try cross-lighting. Two 35° lights target the canopy from opposite sides to eliminate dark spots.

Large Trees:
Utilize different angles with accent lights pointing up at the canopy.

Wide Canopies & Firs:
A wide 60° beam spread softens details and captures the full width of sprawling branches.

2. Guide the Path with Moonlighting

Lining a flagstone walkway with perfectly symmetrical, blazing stakes can be seen as a rookie mistake. It creates a blinding glare that ruins the night.

Instead, stagger your low-voltage path fixtures on alternating sides of the walkway every 6 to 8 feet. This creates a softer, balanced flow through your garden beds.

For the ultimate natural look, utilize moonlighting. Mount fixtures high up in architectural ledges or mature tree branches. Casting a wide, soft light downward from 20 feet up mimics natural moonlight. This illuminates steps and elevation changes safely without blinding your guests. It also casts beautiful leaf and branch shadows onto the lawn when the wind blows.

Related Reading: Common Misconceptions about Northern Michigan Lawn Care

3. Integrate Secret Hardscape Lighting

Your outdoor entertainment zones need a cozy social energy. A premium backyard relies on hidden fixtures that blend directly into your stone and woodwork.

Planning these fixtures during the construction phase yields the cleanest results. It allows seamless wire routing behind the stone.

Steps:
Small LED brick lights mount directly into the step risers. You can also slip flat fixtures under the stair tread caps. This makes dark level changes safe.

Sitting Walls & Fire Pits:
We can integrate linear hardscape fixtures just underneath the top cap of a stone retaining wall. This casts a warm glow downward along the stone face.

Decks & Railings:
Compact half-moon fixtures attach directly to deck posts. We can tuck under-counter lights beneath outdoor grilling stations so you can see your tools whenever you need them.

4. Double Your Views with Pool & Water Feature Lighting

Water can completely shift your lighting plan. It offers a built-in canvas for light reflection that instantly makes a compact patio feel expansive.

If your design includes a custom plunge pool, bubbling stream, or backyard waterfall, low-voltage underwater fixtures are essential. Placing sealed LEDs directly inside the water makes the pool glow from within. This catches the natural ripples and currents to create a striking backyard focal point.

You can also use mirror lighting to maximize the visual space. By strategically illuminating the trees or architectural features sitting directly behind the water, the landscape reflects perfectly off the still surface. This doubles your view and builds a dream-like evening scene.

5. Master Your Color Temperature

Light has specific color profiles measured in Kelvin (K). Choosing the right tone is what separates a harsh, commercial look from a cozy residential display.

2700K (Warm Gold):
The residential sweet spot. It enhances surroundings with warmer tones like brown wood decks, cedar siding, and natural stone. It brings out the rich colors of red and green foliage.

300K (Pure White)
A crispier light. This tone beautifully accentuates blue or silver foliage, like blue spruce trees.

4000K and Higher (Cold Blue)
This works great for high-visibility security zones but can make natural stone and landscaping look flat.

Weather Proofing: Plastic solar lights from a big-box store will struggle to survive our winters. Heavy lake-effect snow, freezing ground shifts, and damp shoreline air across Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Benzie counties can easily crack cheap castings. Professional systems use sealed, solid brass or copper fixtures that naturally patina over time and stay completely watertight through the freeze-thaw cycle.

Patio Sizing & Investment

Visualizing square footage on a lawn is hard. A space that looks huge when empty often feels cramped once a dining set and grill arrive. These benchmarks help you find the right fit. Prices below reflect manufactured stone; natural stone typically runs 20-25% higher.

Sizing for a 4-Person Table

A patio for a 4-person table starts around 10′ x 10′ (100 square feet). This fits a standard 48-inch table and gives chairs enough room to slide back. It is a great spot for morning coffee away from the main house. A 10′ x 10′ patio installed is around $10,000.

Planning for a 6-Person Dining Set

To fit a 6-foot table, you need at least 12′ x 12′ (144 square feet). If you want people to walk behind seated guests easily, move toward a 15′ x 15′ (225 square feet) area. This extra room stops that “trapped” feeling when someone gets up for a refill. A typical 12′ x 12′ patio cost is around $14,000.

Hosting an 8-Person Group

A patio for an 8-person table needs a 16′ x 20′ (320 square feet) base. This size keeps the traffic lanes open for serving food even when every chair is full. It makes your patio feel like a natural part of your indoor dining room. For a large-scale project like this, the cost is approximately $30,000.

Plan Your Layout

Many people place a patio directly against the house. This can create “dead zones” where the first few feet of stone go unused. Consider pulling the main seating area away from the wall by a few feet to keep the space useful.

Your Patio Size Checklist

Walk your property and check these factors before you start:

• Furniture Space: Measure your current set. Add 3 feet of buffer around the table so chairs can move.
• Primary Use: Decide if this is for dining or just a path to the rest of the garden.
• Sun & Shade: Do you want afternoon sun or the relief of northern shade?
• Drainage: Northern Michigan sandy soil drains well, but we must protect against standing water near your foundation.

Creating Outdoor Rooms

Large patios can feel like a parking lot without a plan. To maximize your patio cost in Traverse City, think of the project as a series of outdoor “rooms.”

• Cooking Zone: Put the grill near the house for quick trips to the kitchen.
• Gathering Hub: Make the dining area the center of the space.
• Private Retreat: Tuck a small seating area into a corner with tall grasses.

Related Reading: Caring for Your Lawn in Traverse City, MI this Spring

Fire Pit Footprints

You need a heat source to stay comfortable during crisp October nights. A good rule is to allow six feet of space on all sides of the pit for chairs and walking.

• Round Fire Pits (4-6 People): For a 3-foot pit, a space of at least 15′ x 15′ is best. This shape lets Adirondack chairs wrap around the heat.
• Square Pits (6+ People): A 6-foot rectangular fire table needs at least 18′ x 18′ of stone.
• Wood vs. Gas: Wood fires offer the scent of cedar but need room for wood storage. Gas fire pits are ready instantly, have no smoke, and fit in smaller spaces.

Related Reading: Unilock provides an excellent guide on firepit dimensions with a more detailed view on technical specs and how different stone shapes impact your layout.

Planning for Your Patio Borders

Stone is the foundation, but plants create the privacy. Surround your stone with a garden bed so it doesn’t look like a lonely island in your lawn. Here are a few hardy plant suggestions that can handle our Grand Traverse region winters and still look polished in July.

Layering for Privacy

• The Backdrop (Tall Layers): Taller plants act as the living walls to block the wind or hide the neighbor’s backyard. Karl Foerster is a favorite because it stays upright even after a heavy snow. For a deeper root system that thrives in our sandy soil, try Northwind Switchgrass. If you want a more wild, meadow look that changes color in the fall, Big Bluestem is a classic choice.
• The Mid-Layer (Medium Heights): These provide color at eye level while you are sitting down. Purple Coneflower is as tough a snow-packed shovel and great for local bees. Walker’s Low Catmint gives you a soft purple border that blooms for most of the summer. For a shorter grass that turns a striking bronze after the first frost, we recommend Little Bluestem.
• The Edge (Low Accents): Low-growing plants hide the sharp edge of the pavers and soften the transition to the grass. Creeping Thyme smells great when stepped on and fills gaps between stones. Autumn Joy Sedum is a thick, hardy plant that holds water well during July heatwaves. You can also use Prairie Dropseed, a fine grass that grows in a neat, round clump about the size of a basketball.

One Team for Your Entire Property

A beautiful patio stays that way when the landscape around it is healthy. Our short Northern Michigan summers are for hosting family, not for weeding. TruNorth Landscaping maintenance packages handle the heavy lifting like spring clean ups, pruning, and bi-weekly edging to keep your beds looking sharp.

For the health of your turf, our sister company, Green Team, handles the fertilization and pest control. We provide the expert direction to turn your backyard into a finished retreat without you having to juggle a dozen different contractors. One call to our team takes care of the design, the build, and the long-term care so you can get back your weekends.

Start your project with a team that lives where you do.

Assessing the Winter Aftermath

Before any tools touch the soil, perform a comprehensive property audit. Northern Michigan winters often leave behind more than just fallen branches. Look for heaving in hardscapes, where the freeze-thaw cycle may have shifted pavers or stone walkways. Early detection allows you to reset these elements before they become safety hazards or permanent structural issues. If you notice significant movement in retaining walls or stone stairs, our construction teams can provide a professional assessment to restore their integrity.

Related Reading: TruNorth Landscaping Maintenance Services

Priority Audit Areas:

• Structural Integrity: Inspect retaining walls and stone stairs for shifting caused by frost.
• Drainage Pathways: Check that snowmelt moves away from the foundation and into designated swales or rain gardens.
• Winter Burn: Identify evergreens with brown needles. This is a sign of moisture loss during frozen months.
• Animal Impact: Look for vole runs. These are small, surface-level tunnels in the turf that indicate where rodents nestled under the snow.

Professional Standard for a Spring Yard Cleanup

The first physical step in any spring yard cleanup is the removal of organic debris. While a few leaves in a garden bed provide nutrients, a matted layer of wet foliage on your turf is a recipe for disaster. This layer traps moisture and creates an environment where oxygen cannot reach the soil. You can use high-volume blowers or hand rakes to clear these areas. Focus on the crown of the grass plants to provide the oxygen and sunlight required to break dormancy. For garden beds, clear away spent annuals and cut back perennials. If the volume of debris feels overwhelming, our maintenance team can step in with specialized equipment to clear your property in a fraction of the time.

Related Reading: Caring for Your Lawn in Traverse City, MI this Spring

Landscape Lighting & Water Management

Spring is the time to recalibrate the systems that keep your sanctuary functional after dark. Northern Michigan winters are notoriously hard on outdoor lighting. Frost can heave fixtures out of alignment, and heavy snow piles often bump path lights. You can inspect every fixture for cracks or breaks and readjust for proper aim if needed, and check for any moisture intrusion in the wiring.

Check that your gutter downspouts and underground drainage lines are clear of winter debris. If water pools near your home, consider implementing rain gardens or dry creek beds. These features can be beautiful and protect your home’s foundation. Our designers can help you plan these drainage solutions if the snowmelt is not moving as it should.

Related Reading: Landscape Lighting Tips & Tricks

Precision Pruning & Garden Care

Pruning is a technical skill that dictates the future health and shape of your trees and shrubs. You can perform structural pruning in early spring to remove the three Ds: dead, damaged, or diseased wood. Removing these obstacles allows the plant to redirect its energy toward healthy new shoots.

Timing is vital. Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs, such as lilacs or forsythia, until after their first bloom. Cutting them now would remove the very buds you have been waiting all winter to see. If you are unsure where to make the proper cuts, our crew members are trained to handle these delicate transitions for you.

Hardscape & Outdoor Living Reset

A high-end landscape is a functional living space. To keep your outdoor kitchen, patio, and fire pit ready for use, perform a seasonal reset with a focus on preservation. You can use a garden hose and a soft-bristle broom to remove the salt and grit of winter. Exercise extreme caution if you choose to use a power washer. High pressure can blast away the oplymeric sand in the joints, destabilizing your pavers.

If your stone has been professionally sealed, avoid power washing entirely. The force can strip away the protective sealant and leave the stone vulnerable to staining and moisture. Instead, use a specialized stone cleaner to maintain the finish. This level of detail keeps your outdoor retreat looking polished while protecting the integrity of the build. If you notice structural shifts or missing joint sand, our design-build team can restore your living space to its original vision.

Related Reading: 5 Common Patio Problems and How to Fix Them

Optimizing Your Irrigation for the Season

Your irrigation system is the lifeblood of your landscape during our dry Northern Michigan Julys. As part of your spring yard cleanup, we recommend a quick visual check of the property. Look for any sprinkler heads that may have shifted due to frost or snow removal during the winter. Simply observing a test cycle allows you to verify that water is reaching your garden beds and turf without hitting your siding or windows. This proactive check maintains the efficiency of the system and protects your plants from the first warm stretch of the year.

Related Reading: Irrigation Systems and Services

Professional Mulching & Edging

A defining characteristic of a professional spring yard cleanup is the clean line between the turf and the garden bed. You can achieve this by creating a deep “V” trench that defines the shape of your landscape beds. Acting as a physical barrier, the trench prevents grass roots from invading your intentional garden spaces. Meticulous edging keeps the perimeter of your home looking sharp and well-maintained.

Once the edges are set, apply a fresh layer of premium hardwood mulch. Maintain a depth of two to three inches. Beyond providing a polished aesthetic, proper mulching suppresses weed seeds, regulates soil temperature, and retains moisture during our summer heatwaves. Careful placement is key: keep mulch away from the base of tree trunks. Avoiding “mulch volcanoes” protects the bark from rot and insect infestation. If the physical demand of hand-cutting these edges becomes an obstacle, our crew members can step in to provide that professional finish for you.

Moving Forward with Confidence

A spring yard cleanup is a rewarding ritual for many homeowners. It offers a chance to reconnect with the soil and witness the first signs of life in the garden. However, the scale of some Northern Michigan properties can require more than a weekend and a rake.

When the physical demands of property preparation become an obstacle to enjoying the season, our teams are ready to step in. We bring specialized equipment and a deep understanding of local ecology to every project. This allows us to provide a level of precision that protects your investment and maintains the health of your landscape for years to come.

Reach out today to see how we can help give you time back this spring.

If you would rather spend your summer enjoying the lake than working the dirt, our team is here to help.

Contact our design team to discuss your property.

Concrete Advantage for Compact Spaces

As an authorized Plunge Plus dealer, we provide precast concrete pools that are specifically designed for the challenges of Northern Michigan. In places like Benzie County, where yards can be hilly or compact, these steel-reinforced units are a game changer.

Because they are smaller and incredibly durable, our team can tuck them into corners or integrate them into existing patios where a standard pool would be impossible to install. These units offer a sustainable choice, too. Their lower water volume means you use fewer chemicals and less energy to keep the water at the perfect temperature for a late night dip.

Related Reading: Spotlight on Sustainable Landscaping at Your Northern Michigan Home: Eco-Friendly Practices to Consider

Why Winter is the Secret to Summer Success

You might think that a pool project has to wait until the spring thaw, but a winter pool installation is actually one of the smartest ways to manage a site with limited access. Since these units are manufactured in a controlled indoor environment, they are ready to go even when the snow is flying.

We recently handled a project (watch a video of it here on our Facebook) where a crane was used to lift a pool directly over their home and into the backyard earlier this winter. This plunge pool installation Michigan strategy means we get the heavy machinery and structural work done while your landscape is dormant. When spring arrives, we can focus on the compact backyard landscaping and stone work. You will be swimming my Memorial Day instead of watching a construction crew in your yard all June.

Related Reading: 7 Trending Landscape Ideas for Your Outdoor Space in Grand Traverse and Leelanau County

Smart Sizes for Every Space

The Plunge Plus line offers four distinct models to solve your space challenges. Every model features a consistent 48-inch depth, making them perfect for standing and socializing.

• The Nantucket (7′ x 13′): Fits into the tightest urban lots.
• The Vineyard (9′ x 16′): A versatile choice for most suburban backyards.
• The Cape (9′ x 12′): Plenty of room for lounging and floating.
• The Cape Plus (9′ x 21′): Features an integrated spa for the ultimate luxury.

Our team can customize your setup with hydrotherapy jets, automated covers, and smartphone controls to fit your specific lifestyle.

Related Reading: Fiberglass vs. Concrete Plunge Pools: Which is Right for Your Backyard?

Building Your Outdoor Retreat

At TruNorth Landscaping, we are a full-service operation. We do not just drop a pool in a hole, we design the entire environment so it feels like a natural extension of your home. We value work-life balance, and we know that a well-designed backyard is essential for recharging after a long week.

If you’re tired of thinking your yard is too small for a pool, let our team show you what is possible.

Partnering with the Right Landscaping Team in Grand Traverse and Leelanau County, MI

When it comes to choosing a landscaping company, selecting a full-service team that understands the local environment can make all the difference. Our staff manages your entire project from the initial design to long-term maintenance so you never have to wonder who is responsible for the next step.

TruNorth Landscaping is proud to offer in-house design, architectural services, expert installation, and year-round maintenance tailored to the unique needs of our Northern Michigan clients. We specialize in the Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Benzie County areas, only taking on the types of projects we do best. This focus helps us deliver top-tier results from a team that truly listens to your goals.

Whether you are starting from scratch or refreshing a space you already love, choosing the right professionals matters. With TruNorth, you do not have to juggle multiple contractors or wonder who to call when you have a question. Our teams know your project and your vision, and we have the coordination in place to keep your landscape looking great for years to come.

Ready to bring your dream outdoor space to life? Contact us to schedule a consultation with our design team today.

What is a Plunge Pool?

A plunge pool, sometimes called a cocktail pool or garden pool, is a compact swimming pool designed for relaxation, cooling off, and lounging. Unlike traditional pools, plunge pools don’t dominate your backyard. Instead, they fit neatly into smaller spaces, making them perfect for Traverse City’s charming, often tricky lot layouts.

Because they’re precast off-site and then delivered, plunge pools can be installed in weeks instead of months. Their smaller footprint means:

• Lower maintenance and reduced chemical use
• Faster heating with lower energy costs
• More flexibility to enjoy additional outdoor living features like patios, fire pits, or gardens

For homeowners who want the luxury of a pool without the hassle of maintaining a large one, plunge pools are an ideal solution.

What is a Fiberglass Pool?

Fiberglass pools are one of the most common alternatives to concrete pools. They’re made from a pre-molded fiberglass shell that’s installed in your yard as a single piece. While fiberglass pools are known for their smooth surface and relatively quick installation compared to poured-in-place concrete, they’re still generally larger in size and more limited in design.

Most fiberglass pools come as-is: once you choose the shape and size from the manufacturer, customization is minimal. They’re a solid option for those wanting a traditional pool experience but don’t offer the same flexibility in features as today’s plunge pools.

Comparing Size

When it comes to size, fiberglass pools usually run larger than plunge pools. That might sound like a positive at first, but bigger isn’t always better.

• Larger pools require more maintenance, more chemicals, and more water, which means higher ongoing costs and more work.
• They also take longer to install and occupy a greater share of your yard, leaving less space for outdoor living areas.

Plunge pools, on the other hand, are designed to be compact and efficient. While some fiberglass models do mimic plunge pool dimensions, concrete plunge pools are purpose-built to fit tighter spaces while still providing the functionality homeowners want.

Comparing Features

This is where concrete plunge pools truly shine.

Fiberglass pools offer a smooth interior surface, but they’re limited in customization. What you see in the catalog is essentially what you get.

Concrete plunge pools (like those offered by Plunge Pools) are a different story. They combine durability with a wide range of high-end features, including:

• RENOLIT pool membrane interior that is waterproof, durable, and comfortable underfoot
• Built-in heating systems for year-round use
• Bench seating and integrated loungers for comfort
• High-end tile work and finishes to match your backyard design
• LED lighting and waterfalls for ambiance
• Energy-efficient filtration systems
• Eco-friendly automation controls
• Winter safety covers for protection

With concrete plunge pools, you’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all design. You can customize everything, from finishes to features, to create a pool that complements your home and lifestyle.

Comparing Price

Price can vary widely depending on design choices. Fiberglass pools tend to have a lower upfront cost compared to custom plunge pools. However, because they’re larger, long-term costs for maintenance, chemicals, and heating are often higher. Concrete plunge pools may involve a higher initial investment, but their smaller size, efficient systems, and durability often lead to lower ongoing costs. They’re also an attractive feature for resale, as more homebuyers seek out low-maintenance luxury amenities.

When evaluating price, it’s important to consider not just the installation, but also the lifetime value of your pool. Typically when comparing price between these two options, fiberglass will be cheaper.

Comparing Durability

Both fiberglass and concrete are known for durability, but the materials perform differently over time. Fiberglass can be strong but is susceptible to fading or developing surface cracks if the shell shifts. Repairs are possible but can be more noticeable. Precast concrete plunge pools are reinforced with steel and paired with a watertight RENOLIT membrane, providing long-term strength and resilience. Because they’re precast in controlled environments, quality is consistent, and they’re built to withstand Northern Michigan’s seasonal changes.

In terms of lasting investment, concrete plunge pools tend to offer greater peace of mind.

Partnering with TruNorth Landscaping for Plunge Pool Design and Installation in Traverse City, MI

Deciding between a fiberglass pool and a concrete plunge pool ultimately comes down to your priorities, whether that’s size, features, maintenance, or long-term durability. For homeowners who want a pool that fits their backyard beautifully, adds lasting value, allows for true customization, and offers luxury without high maintenance, a concrete plunge pool is often the clear choice.

At TruNorth Landscaping, we only offer installation of Plunge Pools. We have selected this brand and style because it allows us to design entire outdoor spaces that bring your vision to life. From selecting the right plunge pool model to surrounding it with beautiful hardscapes, plantings, and outdoor living features, we ensure your investment enhances your home for years to come. The goal of adding this service to our roster was to allow your full luxury backyard to take shape.

If you’re ready to explore whether a plunge pool is right for you, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. With TruNorth, you can look forward to summers filled with relaxation, style, and memories made right in your backyard.

Want to learn more about plunge pools? Get started by filling out our contact form.

Learn more about how to select the right material for your hardscape project:

Tip #1: Create Defined Zones

Start by deciding what elements are important to you in a backyard space and what you plan to do in your backyard space.

Is entertaining large groups of people your specialty? Make sure your designer includes a large patio area that can accommodate for many guests.

Do you love to do yoga outside in the warm summer mornings? Consider adding a small patio area surrounded by your favorite plantings where you can roll out your yoga mat each morning.

Discuss with your landscape designer what specific purposes you want your space to serve and then create clearly defined zones. Avoid installing one big patio that will be your spot for everything, as it can leave the rest of your space looking neglected.

Creating a separate area for dining and lounging for example add structure to your space and make it more user-friendly for your family and guests.

Here are some of our favorite ‘zones’ to create

• Dining zone: This area could include a patio that has room for a table and chairs as well as an outdoor kitchen. Your outdoor kitchen can be extensive as you would like. We install both simple grill and counter top kitchens to elaborate outdoor kitchens including features like pizza ovens, wine coolers, and dishwashers.
• Relaxation zone: This area could include a smaller patio with really comfortable outdoor furniture. Small tables can be included to hold drinks and snacks.
• Play zone: If you have children or frequently host families that do, incorporating a grass area into your space is a great idea. It gives kids a separate space to play while you can watch and relax from another zone.
• Entertainment zone: This area could include a fire element like a fireplace with a pergola or pavilion and even an outdoor television. Firepits placed on patios with lots of room for seating around them are another great entertainment option.

Tip #2: Use Creative Landscape Design to Signal the Transition from One Zone to Another

It can be challenging to create a cohesive landscape design for a large backyard. Breaking down your large outdoor space into smaller, intimate areas can make it feel cozier. Try using landscape elements like planters, trellises, and large container garden plantings that work as natural dividers.

If you plan to create multiple hardscape areas, selecting products that work together can be challenging. Utilizing different hardscape patterns of the same material or product can be a great solution to create both visual interest and signal that you are transitioning to a new landscape zone.

Tip #3: Add Accent Lighting for Ambiance

The addition of landscape lighting can transform any outdoor space. Lighting helps you to safely navigate your property in the evening hours, and it also serves as a way to highlight special areas in your space.

Landscape lighting provides function and beauty to your backyard. It adds warmth and an inviting atmosphere to an otherwise potentially unusable space after the sun goes down.

Tip #4: Include Natural Elements

Any outdoor space must have natural elements in order to feel complete. When you visualize an outdoor space, many times you may think only about the hardscape elements like the patio or firepit. However, adding natural elements like plantings or even a water feature can create visual interest and a relaxing feel to your backyard.

Not sure which plants to include? Talk with your landscape designer about colors you like or any specific plants that are your favorite. They can assist you with selecting the right plant for the right place, so it will thrive for years to come. Be sure to include plantings that offer a variety of different bloom times and textures to add depth to your landscape.

Planning Your Large Backyard Landscape

Designing your outdoor space can feel like a daunting task, but with the right approach and guidance of professionals, it can become an exciting journey of self-expression. If tackling your entire outdoor space at once seems like too big of job, start with creating a design you love and installing landscape zone by zone. Start small and focus on what pieces of the landscape resonate with you the most.

A well-designed and installed landscape in a large outdoor space has the potential to be an extension of your home.

Ready to start designing your dream backyard? Fill out our consultation form, meet with our team of experts, choose a solution that works for you, and get ready to relax in your new outdoor living space.

What Do You Put Under Pavers When Installing a Patio or Driveway?

The main difference between a professionally installed paver project and an inexperienced paver install is all about what is put under the pavers before installation begins.

In the landscaping industry, we call this the base. The typical base of a professionally installed project, including the pavers, ranges from 4-12 inches, depending on what type of hardscape project you are constructing. Driveways, for example, need a much more sturdy base to support the weight of vehicles.

Let’s look at the layers that make up the base so you can understand why so much old grass or dirt needs to be removed from your property.

1. Sand/Dirt- The first layer, or the deepest layer, of your patio base is made up of sand and dirt. Sometimes this needs to be brought in to amend soil that will not meet the requirements of a sturdy base. This layer is then compacted with a machine.
2. Stone- The second and third layers consist of a gravel base. This gravel starts at least 4” of depth and is compacted again.
3. Bedding Layer- The final layer before pavers is what we call the bedding layer. This is a sand material that is leveled and works as a natural leveler for the pavers that will be installed.
4. Concrete Pavers- After the above layers have been installed and compacted, it is now time for the pavers to be installed.

Why is a Proper Paver Patio Base Important?

While these extra steps take time, make your yard a mess, and add to the cost of a paver installation, a proper base determines the longevity and success of your project. Patios or driveways with a proper base can help your project withstand the freeze/thaw period we experience here in Northern Michigan and all the traffic from either vehicles or pedestrians.

Nearly every patio problem leads back to an improperly installed base. Here are just a few of the issues that can arise with poor base installation:

• Uneven or ‘tipped’ pavers
• Settling or ‘low’ spots in your patio or driveway
• Drainage issues

How to Choose a Professional Landscaping Company to Install Your Paver Patio or Driveway

Installing your own patio or driveway is not really a DIY project homeowners can tackle. The amount of equipment, time, materials, and expertise it requires lends hardscape projects like paver patios or driveways best left to the professionals. But how do you begin finding a professional you can trust?

• Start by asking questions- Don’t hesitate to ask the tough questions. Ask specifically about their process when building hardscape projects. Use this article to ask educated questions about the base layers they install before putting pavers on top. Ask about the experience of their hardscape installation teams.

• Check their qualifications- At minimum, your landscaper should be insured and registered. Landscape companies can have additional qualifications that can help you trust they will do a good job.
  • Look to see if they belong to any of the following associations: Concrete Masonry Hardscapes Association (CMHA), Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA), or the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP). These organizations offer training and resources to all their members to keep them up to date with best practices. Companies have to pay a membership fee, so they are likely utilizing the resources offered.
  • The paver companies themselves offer training and certifications as well. These licenses or certifications require hours of workshops and trainings. Check out the about page on a companies website to check for certifications like: Unilock Driveway Base Fundamentals Certifications, Unilock Paving Stone Installation Certifications, or Techo Bloc Professional Certifications. These products, Unilock and Techo Bloc, are industry leaders in producing the most quality concrete pavers on the market. Awarding these certifications put their name on the line, so landscape companies that hold these certifications are likely very well qualified to install your project.
• Look at Google Reviews and Previous Projects- Before even calling a landscaping company, Google reviews can tell you a whole lot. Positive reviews can tell you what the company tends to excel and negative ones can tell you how they will handle hiccups or mistakes when you hire them. Exploring their portfolio will give you a good idea of what type of projects they can handle. Look for a range of both large and small hardscape projects.  In addition, if a company has won any awards for a project, take note of that. Those awards are highly competitive in the Green Industry, especially national awards.

Choosing to hire a landscape company to install a paver patio for you is a huge investment. You want that investment to be worth it in the end with a beautiful project that stand the test of time. While there are some companies out there doing work without the proper qualifications, taking some time to dig into their websites and asking probing questions during your first meeting can help you ensure you have made a wise decision.

Ready to get started on your paver patio or driveway? Start by filling out our contact form or calling our office. Meet with our landscape architects, choose the solution that is right for your property, and get ready to sit back and relax in your beautiful new outdoor space.