The Hardscape Solution for Home Protection

As a Northern California homeowner it is important to consider construction features that help address unexpected events from fire, earthquakes, and water damage. Outdoor living spaces incorporating hardscapes are a great option – not only do they add curb appeal and increase property value, they provide safety and protection against the forces of nature.

Hardscapes range from basic walkways and driveways to more complex installations incorporating retaining walls at varying elevations, steps leading into patios, and more. While these can be DIY projects, it is important to know that industry standard construction practices are required for durability and safety. If corners are cut to provide lower project costs, or the installation is done by someone lacking experience and knowledge, you may find yourself with problems in the short term and down the road, undermining the intended purpose of the hardscape in the first place.

!PRO TIP! If taking on a project yourself, one misperception for paver or stone installations is that only the top layer of soil needs to be excavated and the existing soil will be sufficient for the base layer. This is a big mistake! To ensure the longevity of your project, soil subgrades must be inspected and any large stones, organic matter, and standing water removed. Ideally, the subgrade is machine compacted. Next, a layer of compacted Class II road base (6-10”) is installed followed by a 1 inch layer of bedding sand. This should be concrete sand; masonry sand or crusher dust are not recommended because they do not compact adequately, causing pavers to shift and settle.

By Guest Contributor:

Adam Borcherdt

Adam’s Hardscapes adamshardscapes.com

These hardscape solutions are engineered to maintain your home’s integrity in the face of natural threats:

FIRES: To help protect against wildfires, FEMA encourages “defensible space” and recommends hardscapes to create firebreaks for Zone 1 (extends at least 30 feet from the structure in all directions and up to 100 feet in certain instances, like downhill lots). Concrete pavers, stone driveways and patios, along with concrete and stone walls help achieve this, while providing beautiful outdoor living spaces.

EARTHQUAKES: In seismic areas where the ground tends to shift, concrete paver driveways are a great consideration because of their ability to shift with the ground rather than remain rigid and crack like other types of driveways can. Aside from the versatility in color and style, concrete paver driveways are easy to maintain, they can last a lifetime and they lend a look of elegance to any property.

FLOODS: Segmental concrete block and stone retaining walls are an excellent long lasting solution to prevent erosion. With stormwater management specifications being enforced, permeable paver installations are a good option to reduce impervious property area.

!PRO TIP! Prior to any excavation make sure to contact USA North 811 so that any underground utility lines (gas, electric, water, AT&T, etc.) are located and marked. Occasionally utility pipes/lines may have been installed without a permit and their locations not known, thus dig with caution!

Hardscapes installed according to industry standards will last for many years, providing space to enjoy time with friends and family, while adding extra protection against nature’s unknowns. Hiring a licensed contractor is a great way to ensure your hardscape is installed properly and safely.

About the author: Adam Borcherdt is the owner of Adam’s Hardscapes, specializing in concrete pavers, retaining walls and custom stone work. www.adamshardscapes.com