When most homeowners think of Em Certified Construction, they think of our top-rated roofing, siding, and gutter services. However, as a comprehensive exterior remodeling company on Long Island, we also specialize in stunning masonry and hardscaping transformations.
We recently completed a project that perfectly showcases how upgrading your “hardscape”—the paved areas of your property—can drastically improve both curb appeal and outdoor living space. From the front driveway to the backyard patio, we overhauled this property to create a functional, elegant landscape.
Here is a closer look at what our team accomplished.
1. The Entrance: Asphalt Paving with Belgian Block Borders
The driveway is the first thing people see when they pull up to your home. For this project, we moved beyond the standard blacktop. We installed a fresh, high-quality asphalt driveway capable of withstanding New York’s freeze-thaw cycles.
To elevate the look, we installed a Belgian block (cobblestone) apron and border.
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Aesthetic Appeal: The natural stone border provides a crisp, high-end definition that separates the lawn from the pavement.
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Structural Integrity: The stone edging acts as a retainer, preventing the edges of the asphalt from cracking or crumbling over time.
2. The Connection: Custom Interlocking Paver Walkway
Connecting the front yard to the rear outdoor space required a durable and safe pathway. We designed and installed a custom interlocking paver walkway that guides visitors along the side of the house.
We utilized a light-grey, textured paver for the main path, accented by a bold, dark charcoal border. This “picture frame” design isn’t just beautiful; it highlights the craftsmanship and adds a modern touch to the landscape.
3. The Destination: Large-Format Stone Patio & Drainage Solutions
The crown jewel of this project is the backyard patio. We installed large-format, square stone pavers (mimicking the look of thermal bluestone) to create a spacious, modern entertainment area.
Expert Drainage Installation A beautiful patio is useless if it floods. In the third photo, you can see a crucial technical detail: a linear channel drain installed along the edge of the patio.
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Water Management: This grate system captures surface water runoff, preventing it from pooling on the patio or flowing back toward the home’s foundation.
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Longevity: proper drainage ensures the pavers won’t shift or heave during heavy Long Island rainstorms.
