Efflorescence is a common problem that affects stone, concrete and other types of masonry surfaces. To learn more about what causes efflorescence and what can be done about it, read the following guest post by Steve Spratt, president of HPS Palo Alto, Inc. Read more

For many folks in the Bay Area, the busiest room in the house is…the backyard. Grilling, playing and socializing outdoors puts neighbors in closer contact with each other, and while that can certainly lead to friendships, it can also cause friction. But you know what they say, good fences make good neighbors. This article covers why you might choose to invest in a high-quality fence and what options are best for your type of yard. Read more

Earlier this week, we posted an article featuring expert tips on designing and building a paving stone feature. One of the aspects covered was technical considerations for installation, such as soil engineering and proper drainage. To gain further insight into what’s entailed, watch this informative video by Diamond Certified Expert Contributor Hayley Johnson, owner of The Legacy Paver Group.

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One of the biggest trends in hardscaping is the use of paving stones to build features like patios, driveways and walkways. Unlike a single, uniform concrete slab, a paving stone installation is assembled mosaic-style with multiple small stones or “pavers.” This method of hardscape construction offers several advantages over that of poured concrete, from a wider variety of design options to a more resilient final product. To learn more, we’ve asked six Diamond Certified Expert Contributors to take us through the consecutive phases of paving stone installation. Read more