It’s Good Business to Add Hardscapes & Natural Stone to Your Service Lineup

It's Good Business to Add Hardscapes & Natural Stone to Your Service Lineup.

As the demand for complete outdoor living spaces continues to grow, many landscapers and builders are finding new revenue opportunities by expanding into hardscaping and natural stone installation. If your business currently focuses on traditional residential or commercial landscaping, integrating hardscape services could open the door to higher-margin projects, increased customer satisfaction, and a stronger competitive edge.

The Market Is Growing – And So Are the Margins

Outdoor living isn’t just a trend—it’s a booming industry. Homeowners are investing in patios, walkways, retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, and fire features that blend design with functionality. According to industry research:

  • The U.S. landscaping industry is valued at over $100 billion, and hardscaping is a key contributor to that figure.
  • Hardscape projects often yield profit margins of 15–40%, significantly higher than typical soft scaping work (Gitnux, Horizon).
  • Outdoor features like patios, decks, and stone walkways can recover 50–75% of their cost in home resale value.

Why Contractors Are Expanding Into Hardscaping

Here are a few reasons why forward-thinking builders and landscapers are integrating hardscaping into their services:

  • Higher Project Value: A typical hardscape job commands more dollars than maintenance or planting work, boosting average project size and bottom-line performance.
  • Increased Client Demand: Homeowners, multi-family residences, hotel and other businesses now expect the inclusion of outdoor spaces. Offering complete design-build services makes you more attractive to clients.
  • Cross-Selling Opportunities: Existing clients are more likely to invest in hardscape features when bundled with landscape design or home builds.
  • Year-Round Work Potential: In many climates, hardscaping can be performed outside traditional growing seasons, helping to extend your working calendar.

Natural Stone: A Smart Addition

Natural stone is one of the most sought-after materials in hardscaping, prized for its durability, elegance, and versatility. From flagstone patios and granite steps to stone veneers and boulder walls, stone adds both function and high-end appeal to residential and commercial properties.

Benefits of working with natural stone include:

  • High perceived value among homeowners
  • Long-lasting, low-maintenance performance
  • Aesthetic flexibility to suit traditional, rustic, or modern designs
  • Increased project prestige, setting you apart from competitors using only manufactured materials

Manufactured Segmental Retaining Walls (SRWs) and Pavers

SRWs and pavers are essential building blocks for durable, visually appealing outdoor spaces. These versatile products offer both structural integrity and design flexibility, making them ideal for everything from functional retaining walls to stunning patios and walkways.

  • Durability – Made from high-quality concrete or composite materials, ensuring long-term structural integrity
  • Consistent Quality – Uniform size and strength make installation easier and reliable.
  • Design Versatility – Available in various styles, colors, and textures for aesthetic appeal.
  • Easy Installation – Modular systems often feature interlocking designs for quicker builds.
  • Eco-Friendly – SRWs deliver erosion control while permeable pavers support drainage and control runoff.

Getting Started

Adding hardscaping or stone installation services doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your business. Many successful contractors start by:

  • Training their crews in basic installation techniques (suppliers, vendors and industry associations provide educational opportunities)
  • Partnering with experienced subcontractors while building in-house capabilities
  • Sourcing high-quality materials from knowledgeable local suppliers
  • Adding design and quoting tools to streamline client communication

It’s also important to build a reliable network of trusted suppliers and consultants who can provide the right materials, guidance, and technical support as you grow.

Whether you’re a landscaper looking to expand your design capabilities or a builder aiming to deliver turnkey outdoor environments, hardscaping is a strategic move that can pay dividends for years to come. At Outdoor Living Supply, we’re here to help you succeed—with expert guidance, high-quality materials, and the support you need to grow your business. Find an OLS location near you and take the next step in building beautiful, profitable outdoor spaces.

Elevate Your Pool Space with Natural Stone and Porcelain

Elevate Your Pool Space with Natural Stone and Porcelain

When designing your dream pool and outdoor living space, the materials you choose make all the difference. Not only do they impact the overall look, but they also affect comfort, safety, and maintenance for years to come.

Two of the best options for pool decking? Natural stone and porcelain pavers. Both offer unique benefits that can transform your backyard into a beautiful, functional retreat.

Why Homeowners Love Natural Stone

There’s a reason natural stone has stood the test of time. It’s elegant, timeless, and blends seamlessly with your landscape. Travertine, in particular, is a top choice around pools. Its soft, earthy tones create a warm, inviting space — and its natural porosity helps it stay cool underfoot, even on hot summer days.

One of travertine’s biggest advantages? Slip resistance. Around a pool, that’s a must. It not only looks great but adds a layer of safety, especially for kids and guests.

Other natural stones like limestone and sandstone offer similar beauty and performance — giving you plenty of design flexibility to match your home’s style.

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The Modern Edge of Porcelain Pavers

For a sleek, modern look that’s built to last, porcelain pavers are hard to beat. They deliver the beauty of natural stone or wood with the bonus of low maintenance.

Porcelain is non-porous, so it resists stains, mold, and mildew — ideal for a pool area. It’s also incredibly durable, handling heavy foot traffic, weather, and chlorine exposure without breaking a sweat.

Plus, porcelain pavers stay cooler than traditional concrete or darker materials, so they’re comfortable to walk on even when the sun’s beating down. Stylish, strong, and low maintenance — what’s not to love?

Your Best Source for Pool Materials? Outdoor Living Supply

No matter which material you choose, Outdoor Living Supply has you covered. With locations across the country, we carry a premium selection of natural stone and porcelain pavers designed specifically for outdoor spaces like yours.

Our team knows outdoor living, and we’re here to help you find the perfect material to fit your style, budget, and backyard goals — whether that’s a resort-inspired pool deck or a simple refresh.

Ready to Start?

Visit your nearest Outdoor Living Supply location to explore our top-quality materials and expert guidance. The right materials make all the difference — and we’re here to help you create the perfect poolside retreat.

Find your closest location and let’s get started

Preparing Hardscaping for Winter: A Homeowner’s Guide

Preparing Hardscaping for Winter: A Homeowner's Guide

As winter approaches, your outdoor hardscaping — whether pavers, natural stone, or other surfaces — face the challenges of cold weather, snow, and ice. The freeze-thaw cycles, moisture, and de-icing chemicals can cause significant damage if you don’t take proper precautions. Protecting your investment is key to maintaining its appearance and ensuring its longevity, so this guide highlights some ways that you can prepare your hardscaping for winter, no matter where you live.

1. Clean and Inspect Your Hardscaping

Before the cold sets in, thoroughly clean and inspect your outdoor surfaces.

  • Remove Debris: Sweep away leaves, dirt, and any organic material. When these materials trap moisture, it can freeze, leading to cracks or erosion in your pavers or stone.
  • Pressure Wash: A good pressure wash will remove built-up grime, helping prevent slippery surfaces and stopping water from pooling in low areas, which can freeze and expand.
  • Check for Damage: Inspect your pavers or stone for cracks, uneven surfaces, or loose stones. Winter weather can worsen existing damage, so repair cracks and fill gaps before freezing temperatures arrive.

2. Seal Pavers and Natural Stone

Sealing your hardscaping is one of the best ways to protect it from winter’s harsh elements. Both pavers and natural stone are porous, allowing water to seep in. When this water freezes, it expands and can cause cracks.

  • Use the Right Sealer: Select a high-quality sealer suitable for your specific materials, whether pavers, natural stone, or concrete. Some sealers also enhance the color of your stone, giving it an extra aesthetic boost while providing protection.
  • Apply and Reapply: Sealers don’t last forever and will need reapplication every 1 to 3 years. A properly sealed surface helps repel water, preventing damage from ice and de-icing salts.

3. Managing Freeze-Thaw Cycles

In cold climates, freeze-thaw cycles are a leading cause of damage to hardscaping. As temperatures fluctuate, water that has seeped into cracks and joints freezes, expands, and pushes materials apart, leading to cracking and shifting.

  • Ensure Proper Drainage: Make sure that water is draining away from your hardscaping. Standing water can cause significant problems once it freezes, so check that your patio or walkway has a slight slope and that all drains are clear of debris.
  • Use Polymeric Sand: For paver surfaces, using polymeric sand between the joints can help prevent water from seeping in. This special sand hardens when water is applied, creating a durable and flexible bond that resists water infiltration and minimizes freeze-thaw damage.

4. The Impact of Salt and De-Icing Chemicals

While necessary for safety, salt and de-icing chemicals can take a toll on your hardscape.

  • Salt Damage: Rock salt (sodium chloride) is commonly used to melt ice, but it can cause significant damage to pavers and natural stone. Salt works by drawing moisture out of the materials, leading to surface flaking (spalling) and discoloration. Over time, this weakens the structure of your hardscaping and leaves it looking weathered.
  • Opt for Alternatives: If possible, use calcium chloride-based de-icers instead of traditional salt, as these are less harsh on stone and pavers. Sand or kitty litter are good alternatives for traction without the harmful effects of salt. If you do use de-icers, rinse your surfaces off after the snow has melted to minimize long-term damage.
  • Apply Sparingly: Even with less harmful products, it’s best to apply de-icing agents sparingly. Use just enough to keep surfaces safe, and avoid spreading too much, as excess chemicals can still damage your hardscape over time.

5. Snow Removal Tips

Winter means snow removal, and while necessary, it should be done carefully to avoid damaging your hardscaping.

  • Use a Plastic Shovel: Metal shovels can scratch or chip your pavers and stone surfaces. Opt for plastic or rubber-edged shovels, which are gentler and still effective at clearing snow.
  • Consider a Snowblower with Rubber Blades: If you use a snowblower, choose one with rubber blades or wheels to avoid gouging or scraping your hardscaping.
  • Shovel Early and Often: Remove snow frequently rather than letting it pile up. Heavy, packed snow can place stress on your hardscape, and deeper accumulations make it harder to remove without causing damage.

6. Cover Delicate Features

If you have outdoor features such as water fountains, stone furniture, or outdoor kitchens, consider covering them during the winter months.

  • Protect Water Features: Drain and cover any water features to prevent ice from forming inside them and causing cracks or damage. Waterproof covers will keep them safe from snow and freezing temperatures.
  • Cover Stone Furniture: Stone benches, tables, or countertops are vulnerable to freeze-thaw cycles. Cover them with durable tarps or fitted covers to protect them from the elements.

Proper preparation is essential to protect your pavers, natural stone, and other hardscaping from winter’s harsh conditions. By cleaning, sealing, ensuring proper drainage, and using the right snow removal techniques, you can extend the life of your hardscaping and keep it looking beautiful year after year. Avoid overuse of salt and de-icing chemicals, and be mindful of the specific needs of your outdoor surfaces. With a bit of preventative care, your hardscape will be ready to weather the winter and look its best when spring arrives.

If you’re unsure of the right products or techniques for your space, consult a hardscaping professional at your local Outdoor Living Supply location for expert advice tailored to your specific materials.

Manufactured Stone vs. Natural Stone

Manufactured Stone vs. Natural Stone

Find the Right Product for Exterior Home Projects.

As a contractor, selecting the right materials for exterior home projects is essential for delivering quality results while balancing cost, durability, and client satisfaction. Manufactured stone and natural stone are the two prevailing choices for homeowners to make a statement with their exteriors, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Manufactured Stone

Pros:

  1. Cost Efficiency: Manufactured stone is typically less expensive than natural stone, which can help you offer competitive pricing and attract budget conscious clients.
  2. Design Versatility: With a wide array of colors, textures, and styles, manufactured stone allows you to meet diverse client preferences and customize projects to exact specifications.
  3. Ease of Installation: Its lighter weight reduces labor costs and simplifies the installation process, allowing for quicker project turnaround times.
  4. Consistent Quality: The uniformity in color and shape ensures predictable results and reduces waste, enhancing project efficiency.

Cons:

  1. Durability Concerns: While durable, manufactured stone may not match the longevity of natural stone, potentially leading to future maintenance issues and impacting client satisfaction.
  2. Perceived Value: Some clients may prefer the unique look and feel of natural stone, viewing manufactured options as less prestigious.
  3. Environmental Impact: The production process involves chemicals and energy, which may be a concern for environmentally conscious clients.

Natural Stone

Pros:

  1. Premium Aesthetic: Natural stone’s distinctive and timeless beauty can significantly enhance a project’s appeal, attracting higher-end clientele willing to invest in quality.
  2. Exceptional Durability: Its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions makes it a long-lasting choice, reducing the likelihood of future callbacks and maintenance.
  3. Eco-Friendly Option: Locally sourced and sustainably quarried natural stone can appeal to clients who prioritize environmental responsibility.
  4. Value Addition: The use of natural stone can increase property value, making it an attractive option for clients looking to enhance their investment.

Cons:

  1. Higher Costs: Natural stone generally comes with higher material and installation costs, which can be a barrier for some clients.
  2. Labor Intensive: Its heavier weight can lead to increased transportation and labor costs, potentially extending project timelines.
  3. Limited Customization: Natural stone offers fewer color and texture options compared to manufactured stone, which might limit design flexibility.
  4. Maintenance Needs: Regular sealing and maintenance may be required to preserve its appearance and durability, which could be a concern for clients.

For contractors, both manufactured stone and natural stone present viable options for exterior home projects, each with distinct business implications. Manufactured stone offers cost efficiency, design versatility, and ease of installation, making it ideal for budget-conscious projects and quick turnarounds. On the other hand, natural stone provides unmatched aesthetic appeal, durability, and eco-friendliness, appealing to a high-end clientele seeking long-term value.

When advising your clients it’s important to consider their budget, design preferences, and maintenance expectations. By understanding the pros and cons of each material, you can tailor your recommendations to meet client needs and optimize your project outcomes.