Diamond Certified Company Report

Unique Pavers

Diamond Certified Company Report

Unique Pavers

Diamond certified ratings dashboard
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION i
Customer LOYALTY i
Helpful Expertise i
Company Credentials i
  • Liability Insurance
  • License Verification
  • Business Practices
  • Current Complaint File
  • Legal & Finance
Phone SURVEY RESPONSES FROM 22 VERIFIED CUSTOMERS i

Albert M.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

1 of 22

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Fast and reliable

Richard was pretty friendly, knowledgeable and gave some recommendations.

Francis W.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

2 of 22

Quality 10
10 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They were efficient, showed up every day, were reliable, clean and did a good job.

Communication and the finished product

Jill T.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

3 of 22

Quality 9
9 10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I would just tell them what a great job they do.

Planning the project was pretty easy.

Read All 22 Survey Responses at Ratings View
Diamond certified VIDEO PROFILE
Diamond certified company PROFILE

Unique Pavers provides a wide range of hardscaping services for residential clients in San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. In addition to using interlocking paving stones to build everything from driveways and patios to retaining walls and pool decks, the company is qualified to install artificial turf and putting greens, exterior lighting, water features, and other outdoor elements.

CEO Richard Telly says his ability to communicate with his clients about their outdoor living projects has been a key factor in Unique Pavers’ success. “I have a lot of knowledge to offer, so I always take the time to make recommendations and present ideas that bring my clients’ projects together. They’re making big decisions that affect their homes for the long term, so they really appreciate the professional insight that I provide.”

Unique Pavers exclusively uses high-quality materials in every aspect of its work, which Mr. Telly says is crucial for ensuring the best possible results. “I make sure the quality of the materials that I use matches the quality of my workmanship. Ultimately, that gives me the confidence to create one-of-a-kind projects that are elegant, durable and built to last for generations.”

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COMPANY REPORT NAVIGATION

Diamond Certified Companies are Rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise.

  • Why this rating is the most accurate.
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DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESOURCE VIDEO PLAYER

DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESEARCHED CAPABILITIES ON Unique Pavers

COMPANY CONTACT
Service AREA

San Mateo County
Santa Clara County

SERVICES PERFORMED

Interlocking Pavers
Artificial Turf and Putting Greens
Segmental Retaining Walls
Natural Stone Hardscapes
Outdoor Kitchens
Exterior Lighting

DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESEARCHED ARTICLES ON Unique Pavers

A recent paver project by Unique Pavers

Company Profile

Unique Pavers provides a wide range of hardscaping services for residential clients in San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. In addition to using interlocking paving stones to build everything from driveways and patios to retaining walls and pool decks, the company is qualified to install artificial turf and putting greens, exterior lighting, water features, and other outdoor elements.

CEO Richard Telly says his ability to communicate with his clients about their outdoor living projects has been a key factor in Unique Pavers’ success. “I have a lot of knowledge to offer, so I always take the time to make recommendations and present ideas that bring my clients’ projects together. They’re making big decisions that affect their homes for the long term, so they really appreciate the professional insight that I provide.”

Unique Pavers exclusively uses high-quality materials in every aspect of its work, which Mr. Telly says is crucial for ensuring the best possible results. “I make sure the quality of the materials that I use matches the quality of my workmanship. Ultimately, that gives me the confidence to create one-of-a-kind projects that are elegant, durable and built to last for generations.”

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Company Philosophy

“My clients are very important to me, so I work hard to bring their ideas to life and make sure they’re 100 percent satisfied with my services. By drawing upon my expertise and using industry-best methods and products, I’m able to deliver exceptional outdoor living spaces that perfectly fulfill their needs.”

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Comparative Summary

Paving stone companies are always looking for ways to differentiate themselves from their competition, and those that have earned the prestigious Diamond Certified award are already several steps ahead. In addition to its Diamond Certified status, Unique Pavers sets itself apart by helping its clients create outdoor living areas that are anchored by customized paver products. “I love using interlocking pavers to produce one-of-a-kind results for my customers,” affirms CEO Richard Telly. “It’s very rewarding to help them make decisions that turn their dreams into reality.”

Unique Pavers offers a variety of hardscaping services to residential clients in San Mateo, Santa Clara and Alameda Counties. In addition to building everything from driveways and patios to retaining walls and pool decks, the company has the training and equipment to install outdoor elements like artificial turf and putting greens, exterior lighting, water features, and more.

Unlike less experienced paving stone contractors that only offer a handful of services and require their clients to hire multiple contractors for complex jobs, Unique Pavers prides itself on being a “one-stop shop” for all types of outdoor living needs. “I use my experience and industry connections to take on complete projects,” says Mr. Telly. “Even if I can’t perform every service, I can run the job like a general contractor and make sure all the work is completed to the client’s satisfaction.”

Another distinguishing feature of Unique Pavers is its ability to walk clients through the hardscaping process and help them plan every aspect of their projects. “I’m passionate about providing recommendations and ideas for how my clients can make their outdoor living projects more functional and beautiful, both now and in the future,” says Mr. Telly. “I know they’re making big investments in their homes, so I focus on doing everything correctly the first time and providing high-quality work that lasts for many years.”

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Industry Info

If you’re choosing between interlocking pavers and concrete for a hardscaping project, make sure you do your homework before making a decision.
Every hardscaping project has unique specifications, but for many jobs, interlocking pavers should be on your list of potential materials. In fact, for certain applications, pavers are actually a better choice than traditional poured concrete. While pavers can be initially more expensive to install and require slightly more maintenance, they have many positive attributes that make them a smarter long-term choice for some projects.

Curb appeal with long-term value
Pavers come in a variety of colors, textures and sizes, and they can be set in patterns that complement all types of homes and landscapes. They also last longer and wear stronger than most concrete slabs. This works in the homeowner’s favor because the slightly higher installation cost is offset by providing a longer-term value.

Stronger and more forgiving
“Paver stones are more structurally strong and forgiving than concrete,” says Richard Telly, owner of Unique Pavers in San Jose. “That’s especially true for areas with unique soil and weather conditions. In the Bay Area, we have expansive soil, dry and wet weather, and earthquakes that can cause expansion and contraction. With concrete, it’s just a matter of time before it cracks.” On the other hand, pavers are more durable against weather changes that can cause cracking, and they also give under pressure, which eliminates damage from vehicles and heavy use.

Easier to repair
Over time, pavers may still crack or appear aged, but they’re easier to fix or replace than concrete. “If you have an issue with your pavers, you can fix it by resetting or installing new pavers in that area,” offers Mr. Telly. Pavers can also be restained or dyed if they fade, reset or moved if they sink or shift, and replaced if they crack or break. Small sections and individual pavers can be repaired or replaced, or the entire set of pavers can be reset in a new pattern or configuration.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much will it cost to complete my project?
A: Once I create a project plan, I’ll be able to provide you with an accurate estimate. All of my estimates are detailed and itemized, so you’ll be able to see exactly where your money will go.

Q: What if the initial plan doesn’t fit my budget?
A: You can make changes to the proposal or scale it down to fit your budget. For example, if a fire pit will cause you to go over budget, you’ll see that clearly in the itemized bid and have the opportunity to make a change.

Q: How long will it take to complete my project?
A: Every project is different, but once I know the details, I’ll be able to give you a specific timeline.

Q: Can I make changes throughout my project?
A: Nothing is set in stone, so to speak, until it’s done. If you want to change the original plan or add an element, that’s fine—I just need to document the changes and determine if it will be a positive or negative change order as far as price is concerned. However, with every change, the project will evolve and may cause other things to change as well. I can be flexible with change orders, but it’s important to understand how changes will impact your project’s overall cost and timeline.

Q: Why should I choose interlocking pavers instead of poured concrete?
A: Interlocking pavers add curb appeal and long-term value. They’re also more structurally strong and forgiving than concrete. In the Bay Area, we have expansive soil, dry and wet weather, and earthquakes that can cause expansion and contraction. With concrete, it’s just a matter of time before it cracks, whereas if you have pavers and there’s an issue, you can fix it by resetting or installing new pavers in that area.

Q: Can you help me choose the right interlocking pavers for my project?
A: Absolutely. I’ll explain your options and show you the brands that I like to use. There are lots of options on the market, so I’ll help you find the right products that fit your style and meet your needs.

Q: Do I need to hire a designer or landscape architect to design my project?
A: It depends on the type of project and how you want to implement it. I can give you recommendations and do some basic designs based on your home and lifestyle, but if you want something more detailed, I suggest talking to a landscape architect. I can even give you the names of some architects whom I’ve worked with in the past.

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SELECTED PHOTOS FROM Unique Pavers

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DIAMOND CERTIFIED EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR ADVICE & TIPS FROM Rick Telly

Expert CONTRIBUTOR PROFILE
  • Rick Telly is CEO of Unique Pavers, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (650) 686-5509 or by email.

Rick Telly: An Interlocking Opportunity

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

SAN JOSE — In the wake of the 2008 recession, Rick Telly found a job opportunity that, while technically outside of his expertise, nevertheless interlocked with his prior professional experience. “I started in the construction industry in 2001, when my brother-in-law got me an entry-level position as a prepping detailer,” he remembers. “I’ve always been handy and enjoyed building, so it was a good fit. I would go into the newly built homes and handle finishing details like drywall touch-ups and lighting—whatever was needed to get them ready for turnover. Following that, I worked as a backend quality assurance superintendent for a new home developer.

“In 2009, after the housing market crashed, I found myself unemployed,” he continues. “I came across a job listing for a project manager to oversee paver installations. I didn’t know a lot about pavers, but I applied anyway and got the job. Once I started, I took an avid interest in the work. I was fascinated by the different elements and how we were able to totally transform a property. Over time, I branched out into related areas like lighting, artificial turf and outdoor kitchens. I continued to grow my knowledge, as well as my network of professional contacts.”

In 2020, Rick started his own hardscaping business: Unique Pavers. Today, he says his favorite part of his job is interacting with clients. “I enjoy getting to know people from all different walks of life. Our company is small, so we’re able to develop a close relationship with each customer and tailor the project to their individual needs and wants. The way we see it, each of our customers is unique, so their paver installations should be as well.”

A lifelong resident of San Jose (where he lives with his husband, Mike), Rick spends his time outside of work on a variety of pastimes. “For fun, Mike and I like camping, fishing, traveling and going to concerts. We love to see the world and experience new places, foods, and cultures.” Rick and Mike also like spending time with their dogs (two chihuahuas and two French bulldogs) and renovating their home.

Regarding a professional philosophy, Rick espouses the value of doing things right the first time. “I don’t like to waste time and money redoing things,” he affirms. “That’s just something I learned over the years, from seeing things my parents went through to gaining experience on jobsites. I saw that when you take shortcuts to save money, you end up spending more in the long run. I don’t want to repeat those mistakes, so I always try to do things correctly the first time, and that has helped me gain a positive reputation in the industry.”

When asked what he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Rick says he’d see more of the world. “I would continue to broaden my horizons and explore new places. It wasn’t until after I got married that I first traveled out of the country, and ever since, I’ve been addicted to it. There’s still a lot more of the world I haven’t seen, so I look forward to traveling more in the future.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Rome. I’m fascinated by the ancient history and culture there.

Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: Golden Buddha in San Jose.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Watch a movie.

Q: How do you like your coffee?
A: Black—no cream, no sugar.

Q: Do you collect anything?
A: I collect souvenir bottle openers from different places that I’ve visited.

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Expert articles
  • 3 Ways to Enhance Your Outdoor Living Space

    SAN JOSE — Do you have a large back or front yard that you’d like to get more use out of? Good news: There are plenty of options for you to do just that. Here are three ways to enhance your outdoor living space.

     

    Synthetic grass

    Everyone likes a nice lawn, but not everyone enjoys the upkeep and expenses that come with it. That’s why synthetic grass can be a worthwhile addition to your outdoor living area. Synthetic grass provides the same aesthetics of natural grass without any of the disadvantages like watering, mowing or gophers. Today’s synthetic products are also durable, environmentally friendly, and safe for kids and pets.

     

    Landscape lighting

    Another way to enhance your outdoor living space is to add some landscape lighting. Not only will this boost your home’s curb appeal, but it’ll also increase safety by providing better visibility after dark. You can achieve a dramatic effect by hanging lights from a tree’s branches or situating upward-facing lights at the base of the trunk. If there aren’t any trees in your yard, placing a pattern of discrete lights along a wall or fence can also create a pleasing effect. Thanks to solar and LED technology, landscape lights are inexpensive to power, so you don’t have to worry about the impact on your energy bills.

     

    Outdoor kitchen

    If you really want to take your backyard to the next level, consider having an outdoor kitchen installed. While it’s a big project, an outdoor kitchen can truly pay off by improving your quality of life and increasing your home’s resale value. When designing an outdoor kitchen, be sure to consider the full range of available features. From pizza ovens and paella burners to refrigerators and ice makers, the possibilities are almost limitless!

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Expert video tip
  • Video: Enhancing Your Outdoor Living Space

    Complete Video Transcription

    SAN JOSE — Rick Telly: If you would like to enjoy your lawn area with low maintenance, synthetic grass may be a water-saving option for you. To enhance your outdoor living space where your whole family can enjoy, you can add a custom outdoor kitchen, which can also add value to your home. If you would like to enhance the curb appeal of your home, you can add landscape lighting to focus on the most unique aspects of your home and give it a unique touch.

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Unique Pavers WEBSITE AND EXTERNAL FEED
Diamond Certified RATINGS ON Unique Pavers
Diamond certified ratings dashboard
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION i
Customer LOYALTY i
Helpful Expertise i

Each surveyed customer was asked, “If you needed any helpful expertise, did this company provide that expertise?” To calculate this score, total “Yes” responses were divided by total responses (excluding those that stated they hadn’t needed any expertise).

Company Credentials i
  • Liability Insurance
  • License Verification
  • Business Practices
  • Current Complaint File
  • Legal & Finance
Phone SURVEY RESPONSES FROM 22 VERIFIED CUSTOMERS i

Albert M.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

1 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Fast and reliable

Richard was pretty friendly, knowledgeable and gave some recommendations.

Tamara M.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

2 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

We are really happy with the service they did.

They were very fast.

Jay M.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

3 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

The quality of craftsmanship and courteousness

The quality of the work

Lawrence S.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

4 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Great quality, high value and a great experience

Being clear, honest and direct

Samantha Q.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

5 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Highly recommend

The quality of work was fantastic and very detailed.

Gene F.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

6 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They are professional, fairly priced and prompt.

They are professional, fairly priced and prompt.

Jerry F.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

7 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They were friendly, honest and did what they said they were gonna do.

They did what they said they were gonna do.

Helen K.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

8 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Richard Telly is extremely creative. He designed a beautiful garden for us.

The final creative design and the workers did things in timely manner.

Richard V.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

9 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They did an excellent job.

Punctual, clean and doing what they said they would do

Brian X.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

10 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Very professional and quick to respond for requests and questions that I had, they were clean and efficient. The work was very good.

Very responsive and quick

Dave V.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

11 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

He is an excellent contractor and I would highly recommend him.

The response was excellent, which is critical in this business. I am in sales so I am a hard customer. He did everything he said he was going to do and in the time he said he was going to do it.

Gina C.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

12 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

I was nervous at first, because it was a big job, but got more and more confident so trust their advice. They have a vision and were able to deliver more than I expected.

Constant communication, high quality and no delays, which I appreciated, they really know what they are doing and have a vision.

Francis W.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

13 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They were efficient, showed up every day, were reliable, clean and did a good job.

Communication and the finished product

Sandra C.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

14 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

The owner was able to get us a great price and their work is the best.

The quality of work, it's almost like an art for them.

Alan C.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

15 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

The price didn't change and they didn't charge any extra.

Rick Telly, the owner, was present and always kept me updated on the progress.

Eileen I.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

16 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They were just very professional, extra hard working, and really did a very timely job on our project. They really hustled to get it done before it rained and before the holidays. Their timing was just great.

It was very easy. Rick, the owner, came out, talked to us about our plans, had a good idea of what we wanted and executed it really well.

Nathaniel

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

17 of 22

Quality 10
10
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Just a very easy process, very transparent cost, and quick work

Just being able to communicate over text to the CEO to get quick updates

Reed R.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

18 of 22

Quality 9
9
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

Very professional, on time and completed the work without a headache

I really like the owner. He was very connected.

Tom C.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

19 of 22

Quality 9
9
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They delivered on time when they said they would.

Working relationship

Michael A.

VERIFIED Unique Pavers CUSTOMER

20 of 22

Quality 9
9
Loyalty Yes
CRITIQUE

They did a great job.

The whole process was really easy and the communication was great.

Read All 22 Survey Responses at Ratings View
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