Who wouldn’t get excited about the prospect of working on multiple patio renovations, a retaining wall, and a driveway extension on the property of a 1870’s farmhouse?
This project started with an initial phone call to discuss the customer’s plans and ideas for the job. Prior to the in-person meeting we made a trip to Irwin Stone in Frederick, MD to explore material options we could use to create the “natural look” that would match the character of the farmhouse.
We brought back images and samples of materials to show the customer while going over the design suggestions we created. We later took the customer to Irwin Stone to see the materials in use for himself! After seeing some display patios, the customer chose a square-cut pattern flagstone with full color and natural cleft stone for their design.
The first phase to be competed was the driveway extension which was contracted out. We contacted the contractor, collected an estimate and once approved oversaw all aspects of the install. From start to finish, DEI visited the site to make sure the driveway met the expectations of the customer.
Once the driveway extension was complete, we stepped in to start renovating the patios. This phase began with removing the original old, broken patio and base. The existing downspouts were extended to improve drainage and the new foundation was then set with Cr6 stone compacted down to create a new solid base.
During construction, it was discovered there were some issues stemming from a nearby water well, so the customer decided to pass on the second patio and instead wanted to create a pathway leading from the driveway to the front door.
To create the pathway, we removed the existing concrete and stone walk, carved out the rubble, and prepped the soil for the Cr6 Stone and stone dust. All the joints between the flagstone were filled with gator dust a product that helps keep weeds from growing in between the joints.
To complete the project, we regraded the land, added topsoil, and placed seed and straw in the areas that needed attention. The site turned out beautifully and honored the character and history of the farmhouse.
