When homeowners consider adding a patio, the conversation often starts with aesthetics—the color of the stone or the shape of the curve. However, a patio is more than just a decorative addition to your backyard; it is a complex engineering project.
At Everett’s Landscape, we believe a patio should be viewed as a long-term investment. While the price point of professional masonry reflects the caliber of the craftsmanship, the why behind that investment lies in the invisible work that ensures property value and lifelong durability.
Materials Matter: A Deep Dive into High-Quality Masonry
The longevity of your outdoor space is dictated by the materials you choose and how they interact with the earth. At Everett’s, we curate a selection of high-quality materials that are chosen specifically for their ability to withstand the Michigan climate:
- Pavers: These are the gold standard for flexibility. Because they are individual units, they can move slightly with the ground’s natural expansion and contraction during freeze-thaw cycles, preventing the unsightly cracking common in poured concrete.
- Natural Stone: For those seeking a high-end, organic look, natural stone offers unmatched density and character. Whether it’s flagstone or bluestone, these materials provide a rugged durability that actually gains character as it ages.
- Brick: Classic and timeless, professional-grade brick masonry provides a slip-resistant surface and a traditional aesthetic that complements historic and modern homes alike.
The ROI of Curb Appeal: Experience Matters
It is a well-known fact in real estate that professional landscaping can provide a significant return on investment (ROI). However, that ROI only exists if the patio stays level and beautiful for years to come.
The difference between a DIY job and a professionally installed patio by Everett’s (serving Grand Rapids since 1956!) is what lies beneath the surface. A patio is only as good as the ground it sits on.
Our team spends the majority of the installation process on the “invisible” engineering:
- Precision Excavation: We don’t just clear the grass; we excavate to specific depths based on soil type to prevent future settling.
- The Multi-Layer Base: We install and mechanically compact layers of high-density aggregate. This creates a solid “raft” that supports the weight of the masonry and prevents the dipping and heaving seen in amateur installs.
- Strategic Drainage: Water is the enemy of masonry. We design subtle pitches and integrated drainage solutions to ensure water flows away from your home’s foundation and off the patio surface, preventing ice patches and erosion.
This level of professional workmanship—honed over seven decades—is why an Everett’s patio outlasts the competition. We don’t just lay stone; we build a foundation.
Everett’s Proven Process: Delivering Peace of Mind
We understand that a patio is a significant commitment. To ensure you feel confident, we follow a rigorous 7-step process designed to eliminate guesswork and ensure a “wow” factor:
- Inquiry: A personal greeting by a dedicated Everett’s staff member to understand your initial goals.
- Consultation: We deep-dive into your dreams, functional needs, and budget guidelines.
- Design & Price: Our designers create a plan that balances beauty with structural reality.
- Presentation: We walk you through the proposed solutions and estimates so you understand every line item.
- Scheduling: Upon deposit, we secure your place in our season, ensuring a professional timeline.
- Completion of Project: Our certified installers—each trained in every stage of the landscape process—bring the design to life with precision.
- Follow-Up: We don’t just disappear once the last stone is set. We ensure your total satisfaction, maintaining the trust we’ve built with customers since 1956.
Investing in quality masonry is about more than just a place to host a BBQ; it’s about the peace of mind that comes from knowing your outdoor living space was built to last a lifetime.
