Hardscaping ranges widely by project — a stone border or decorative rock bed might run a few thousand dollars, while a paver patio or retaining wall runs higher depending on size, materials, and site prep. Sloped lots that need grade support add to the scope. Pavers cost more upfront than concrete but are easier to spot-repair. We give a clear, upfront quote after walking the property.

A lot of Chapel Hill properties have slopes, grade changes, and runoff-prone sections that need to be managed before anything is built. We start by reading how water moves across the lot, then use retaining walls, terracing, and grade support to create level, usable space while controlling erosion. Drainage is planned into the build — not added later — so the finished patio or walkway stays put and the slope above it stays stable.

Both work, but pavers tend to win long-term. They flex with ground movement instead of cracking, can be spot-repaired one unit at a time, and offer more color and pattern options. Poured concrete is cheaper upfront but cracks are permanent and hard to hide. On Chapel Hill's clay soil and sloped lots, pavers on a proper base usually age better.

Yes — that's one of their main jobs. A well-built retaining wall holds back soil on a slope, stops it from washing downhill in heavy rain, and creates level, usable space at the same time. The key is proper base prep and drainage behind the wall, so water moves through instead of building up pressure. On Chapel Hill's sloped, runoff-prone lots, retaining walls are often the foundation of the whole project.

Properly installed, a paver patio or walkway can last decades, and a well-built retaining wall just as long. The difference is almost always in the prep — a compacted base, edge restraints, and drainage. That's why we don't cut corners below the surface, where you can't see it but it matters most.