Hardscapes
Integrity Ground Works
Hardscape Construction Durable, Beautiful Outdoor Surfaces
Hardscapes provide structure, functionality, and aesthetic definition to outdoor spaces. Integrity Ground Works specializes in hardscape solutions — paver patios, stamped concrete, walkways, retaining walls, and flatwork — designed and installed to perform well in Eureka, MO, and the greater St. Louis region. Our approach pairs attractive materials with construction best practices to ensure longevity and low maintenance.
Why hardscapes matter
Hardscapes are the backbone of outdoor living: they define activity areas, provide access, and anchor planting schemes. Proper material selection, compaction, and drainage are essential — a beautifully designed patio can fail quickly if the base is inadequate or if drainage is ignored. Professional hardscape construction ensures the finished surface stays level, resists freeze-thaw damage, and integrates seamlessly with the landscape.
Key benefits of professional hardscape work
Longevity
Proper base preparation and materials result in surfaces that last decades.
Low maintenance
Correctly installed pavers and concrete require minimal upkeep.
Aesthetic versatility
Pavers and stamped concrete can mimic natural stone, brick, or slate at various price points.
Increased usability
Outdoor living spaces extend home square footage and daily enjoyment.
Repairability
Paver systems can be lifted and reset if utilities require access or if settling occurs in localized areas.
Hardscape services we provide
Paver patios and walkways
Interlocking concrete pavers with polymeric sand joints for stability and weed control.
Stamped concrete
Decorative concrete with patterns and integral color for cost-effective textured finishes.
Flatwork and driveways
Durable concrete surfaces poured with proper control joints, reinforcement, and subbase design.
Retaining walls
Engineered retaining systems paired with hardscape surfaces for terraces and steps.
Steps and seating walls
Functional elements built from the same materials for cohesion.
Edging and drainage details
Edge restraints, joint stabilizers, and drainage design to protect hardscape integrity.
Permeable pavers
Where appropriate, permeable systems that allow water infiltration to reduce runoff.
Material selection and performance considerations
Pavers
Durable, replaceable, and available in various sizes and colors. Installation includes compaction of subbase, setting bed of crushed stone, precise leveling, compaction of pavers, and polymeric sand joint filling.
Stamped concrete
Cost-effective with a range of patterns and colors. Requires high-quality concrete mixes and proper control of sealers to protect surface finish.
Natural stone
High-end aesthetic, requires experienced setting and anchoring to create stable surfaces.
Permeable options
Designed to allow stormwater infiltration and reduce runoff, suitable for driveways, patios, and parking areas in appropriate conditions.
Construction best practices we follow
Subgrade preparation and compaction to prevent settling.
Proper base materials (crushed rock or aggregate) sized to project demands and local frost depth considerations.
Edge restraint installation to prevent migration of pavers.
Correct slope and drainage away from structures to prevent water ponding.
Use of polymeric joint sand to strengthen joints and resist weed growth.
Proper sealing (when recommended) to enhance longevity and color retention.
Design
integration and accessibility
We design hardscapes to connect logically with entries and circulation patterns, maintaining appropriate slope for accessibility and drainage. Lighting, transitions to planting beds, and material changes are handled with attention to safety and aesthetics.
Stamped concrete vs. pavers choosing the right solution
Pavers: Best for repairability and patterns that may require future access. Slightly more expensive initially but easier to repair.
Stamped concrete: Smooth, monolithic surface ideal for certain styles and budget constraints but requires proper control joints and sealer maintenance over time.
We provide pros and cons for each option during design consultations.
Permeable pavements and sustainability
Permeable pavers can reduce runoff by allowing water to percolate through joints into a stone reservoir. These systems are useful for driveways and large patios where stormwater infiltration is beneficial and soils permit adequate infiltration rates.
Maintenance of hardscapes
Paver surfaces
Periodic sweeping, joint inspection, and resealing when appropriate.
Stamped concrete
Reapplication of sealants every few years to protect color and surface.
Joint repairs
Small areas of settlement can be easily addressed; full repairs are rare with proper initial installation.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How long does a patio installation take?
Timelines vary by size and complexity. Small patios may take a few days; larger projects with steps, retaining walls, and drainage may require one to two weeks.
Do pavers shift over time?
Properly installed pavers on a compacted base with edge restraints should remain stable. Localized settling can be corrected by lifting and re-leveling pavers.
Is stamped concrete slippery when wet?
With proper surface texture and sealers, stamped concrete can be made slip-resistant. We recommend appropriate finishes for pool decks and high-traffic areas.
Can you build steps and seating walls integrated with patios?
Yes. Integrated steps, seat walls, and planter pockets are common and increase functionality.
Do you provide warranties on hardscape installations?
Yes. We provide workmanship warranties and follow best-practice installations. Manufacturer warranties apply to certain products.
How to plan a hardscape project
Integrity Ground Works builds hardscapes with structural integrity and aesthetic attention — creating durable, low-maintenance outdoor surfaces that enhance property enjoyment and value.
