Masonry in Sterling Heights, MI
Truly relaxing in a beautiful landscape is made possible when there’s no concern over how it will be maintained. Masonry elements contribute to minimizing the need for constant upkeep. Here’s how masonry contractors create low-maintenance outdoor living spaces in the Sterling Heights and Troy MI, areas.
Related: 5 Important Things to Look For in Landscaping Companies in the Macomb and Rochester Hills, MI, Areas
An Expansive Patio
Consider having some of your lawn replaced by the development of a beautiful and functional patio space. Many homes have a basic patio or deck that’s barely big enough for a grill, table, and some lounge chairs. Most people, however, find that if they expand their patio space, they will actually use the space more.
When you give each activity its own zone—either in one large patio or in a series of interconnected patios—then each activity feels special. If you already have a paver patio, you could add features to it to expand your living space. For example, consider a pergola-covered seating area or a small fire pit with a stone seat wall.
Driveway, Walkway Updates
You can also update your driveway, walkway, and entryway to natural stone or concrete pavers rather than poured concrete or asphalt. Poured concrete or asphalt are not as attractive as pavers, and they’re also more likely to succumb to the Michigan winters faster due to the freeze-thaw cycle. While you’re updating these hardscape areas, consider adding charm to your home with low seat walls. Not only will these take up a bit of lawn space, seat walls are also a nice place to sit and visit with a neighbor, or a place to put potted annuals for a pop of seasonal color.
Some concrete driveway pavers can be installed as permeable. This is a great eco-friendly option that allows rain and snowmelt to seep into the ground below (without causing any heaving) instead of running off onto the lawn or overwhelming the storm drains. And while you are considering what you can do for these hardscape features, know that concrete paver driveways are compatible with in-ground heating systems, so you can install driveway and walkway heaters that will minimize the need for shoveling and enhance safety during our tough winters.
Masonry Planters
You can consider the use of masonry planters to define spaces on a large patio. Separate patio spaces can be surrounded by beautiful billowing ornamental grasses or easy-care boxwoods. Choosing this option will give each space a bit of privacy. This approach also makes for a very interesting backyard rich with opportunities to create individual planting zones with their own character.
A few special features you could add to your landscape include pondless fountains or a reflecting pool surrounded by a beautiful masonry wall with a generous ledge on which you can sit. Both still and moving water soothe the senses in a delightful way.
Masonry planters at your entryway or throughout the landscape offer a tidy way to add interest and color—no more mulch creeping into the lawn, and no more grass clippings in your plant beds. Masonry planters can be perfect for adding pollinator gardens and edible gardens (it’s also a hot trend) at a convenient height, where you can sit on a comfortable ledge and enjoy gardening without putting strain on your knees.
Related: Investing in a New Landscape Design for the Summer in Troy, MI
