When you envision a stunning backyard with a winding walkway, a cozy patio, or a stylish retaining wall, there’s one key player who brings that vision to life: an outdoor hardscape contractor. These professionals specialize in designing and installing the non-living elements of your landscape—the brick, stone, and concrete features that give structure and personality to outdoor spaces.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about working with outdoor hardscape contractors in the USA. From how to find a reliable one to what you can expect in terms of cost, permits, and hiring tips, we’ll help you make confident, informed decisions.
What Do Outdoor Hardscape Contractors Do?
Outdoor hardscape contractors design and build features that define outdoor living spaces. This includes:
- Patios and decks
- Walkways and pathways
- Driveways
- Retaining walls
- Fire pits and fireplaces
- Outdoor kitchens and BBQ zones
- Pool decks and borders
They work with a variety of materials including brick, natural stone, concrete pavers, and decorative gravel to ensure the project complements your landscape while adding function and curb appeal.
How to Find a Reputable Outdoor Hardscape Contractor
Finding the right contractor is critical to your project’s success. The good news? There are more tools than ever to help you vet and connect with professionals.
1. Online Directories
Start with trusted platforms like:
- Angi: Lets you browse hardscape contractors near you, read verified reviews, and compare quotes.
- Unilock Contractor Locator: Connects you to Unilock Authorized Contractors, who meet high standards and offer workmanship guarantees.
2. Personal Recommendations
Ask neighbors, friends, or coworkers for referrals. If someone you trust had a great experience, it’s a strong vote of confidence.
3. Review Portfolios
Most established contractors have online portfolios showcasing their work. Look for examples similar to what you want—this gives insight into their style, creativity, and craftsmanship.
4. Check Credentials
Always verify that the contractor is:
- Licensed and insured (especially for structural elements like retaining walls)
- Willing to provide references
- Familiar with local regulations and permitting requirements
Use Angi’s license checker tool to find out what’s required in your state.
Hiring Tips: What to Know Before You Sign
Once you’ve narrowed down your list, keep these hiring tips in mind:
- Get at least three quotes to compare costs and timelines.
- Ask about warranties on labor and materials. For example, Unilock offers a transferable lifetime guarantee on their pavers.
- Insist on a detailed contract that outlines scope, payment schedule, start/end dates, and materials.
- Ensure good communication. The best contractors are transparent, responsive, and willing to answer your questions.
- Be present during key phases, like foundation prep or final walkthroughs. This helps you stay informed and avoid surprises.
Cost Breakdown: What Do Outdoor Hardscape Contractors Charge?
One of the most common questions is: “How much will it cost?”
The short answer: it depends.
According to industry sources, here are average pricing ranges in the U.S.:
| Project Type | Cost Range |
| Small Patio or Pathway | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Retaining Wall | $3,000 – $10,000+ |
| Full Backyard Redesign | $15,000 – $50,000+ |
| Average Overall Project | $9,000 – $12,825 |
| Cost Per Square Foot | $5 – $25/sq. ft. |
Sources include Angi, HomeGuide, Forbes Home, and LawnStarter. Factors affecting cost include:
- Size and scope of the project
- Materials used (brick vs. natural stone vs. stamped concrete)
- Labor rates in your region
- Whether excavation or permits are required
Ways to Save Without Cutting Corners
Hardscaping doesn’t have to drain your savings. Here are some budget-friendly strategies:
- Use prefabricated elements like readymade fire pits instead of custom builds
- Choose mid-range materials like concrete pavers instead of high-end stone
- Tackle the project in phases, starting with essentials like walkways or retaining walls
- Skip unnecessary features unless they add functional value (e.g., elaborate borders or lighting systems)
Also, ask your contractor if they offer seasonal discounts or referral incentives.
Regional Considerations That Affect Design & Price
Hardscape projects aren’t one-size-fits-all. Where you live plays a big role in material choice and construction techniques:
- Colder regions (Northeast, Midwest): Choose frost-resistant materials that withstand freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hotter climates (Southwest): Opt for UV-resistant surfaces that won’t fade or overheat.
- Coastal zones: Materials must resist salt corrosion. Sealing is often necessary.
- Drought-prone areas (California): Incorporate permeable pavers and pair with native, low-water plants.
Contractors familiar with your region will help you navigate these variables.
Permit and Code Considerations
Some hardscape features require local permits, especially:
- Retaining walls over a certain height
- Outdoor kitchens with plumbing/gas
- Fire features or water features
A professional contractor should guide you through this process and factor permit costs into your quote. Don’t skip this step—you could face fines or be forced to redo the work.
Should You Hire a Landscaping Architect Too?
For large or complex projects, a landscape architect can help design a cohesive plan before hiring a contractor. They typically charge $70 to $150 per hour or offer flat-rate packages. If your vision includes custom grading, intricate features, or blending softscape with hardscape, hiring one can prevent costly missteps.
Why Ware Landscaping Are the Best Outdoor Hardscape Contractors
When it comes to turning outdoor visions into reality, Ware Landscaping stands above the rest. As one of Illinois’ most trusted names in landscaping and hardscaping, Ware brings a unique blend of creativity, technical expertise, and customer-focused service to every project.
Here’s why Ware Landscaping is considered among the best outdoor hardscape contractors:
1. Proven Experience and Local Knowledge
Ware Landscaping has been serving the greater Chicago area for over a decade, which means they understand the local climate, soil conditions, and municipal codes better than most. Whether it’s selecting frost-resistant pavers for Midwest winters or ensuring proper drainage to prevent flooding, Ware designs with long-term durability in mind.
2. Complete Design-to-Installation Service
Unlike some contractors who outsource portions of the job, Ware Landscaping handles everything in-house. From the initial design sketches to the final brick placement, you get consistency, accountability, and a seamless experience.
3. Custom Solutions, Not Cookie-Cutter Work
Every outdoor space is different—so why settle for a generic patio or walkway? Ware offers fully customized designs that align with your vision, your home’s architecture, and your lifestyle. Whether you want a European-style courtyard or a modern outdoor kitchen, they make it happen.
4. Advanced Drainage Expertise
One of Ware’s standout features is their deep knowledge of landscape drainage. They don’t just build beautiful spaces—they build functional ones that stay dry, safe, and damage-free. Their drainage solutions come with a 10-year guarantee, a rare promise in the industry.
5. Licensed, Insured, and Highly Rated
Ware Landscaping is fully licensed and insured, giving homeowners peace of mind. Their stellar reviews across Google, Yelp, and other platforms speak volumes about their professionalism, communication, and quality workmanship.
If you’re searching for outdoor hardscape contractors who truly get it—the design, the function, and the peace of mind—Ware Landscaping should be your first call. They don’t just build landscapes; they build trust, beauty, and lasting value.
Final Thoughts: Get It Done Right the First Time
Outdoor hardscape contractors are the backbone of every dream backyard. With the right professional, you don’t just get a patio or a wall—you get a usable, beautiful space that increases your property value and outdoor enjoyment.
Do your homework. Compare pros. Check their work. Ask smart questions. And above all, make sure your contractor understands your vision as well as your budget.
Ready to start your hardscape project?
