A well-designed hardscape should do more than look beautiful, it should complement your home, function well for your lifestyle, and stand the test of time. Whether you're looking to create a new patio for entertaining, a welcoming front walkway, durable front steps, or a retaining wall to improve your landscape, our goal is to build an outdoor space you'll enjoy for years to come.
At Poulin Natural Landscapes, we take the time to understand how you plan to use your space before recommending a design and installation approach. Every project is built with proper excavation, a strong free-draining foundation, and proven installation methods to help ensure lasting performance in Ottawa's challenging climate.
New Hardscape Design & Installation in Ottawa West
Our Design Process
Every project begins with an on-site consultation. We take the time to understand how you use your outdoor space, discuss any challenges you're experiencing, and determine whether your existing hardscape can be repaired or if a new design and installation would provide the best long-term value.
If a new hardscape is the right solution, we'll take detailed measurements of the space and create a hand-drawn concept that reflects your goals, complements the architecture of your home, and works within your budget. We believe a design should be both beautiful and practical, with careful consideration given to layout, drainage, functionality, and the overall flow of your property.
Once the design has been reviewed and refined, we'll provide a detailed proposal outlining the scope of work, materials, and investment required to bring the project to life. Throughout the process, our goal is to provide honest recommendations and thoughtful planning so you can move forward with confidence, knowing you're investing in the solution that's right for your home.
The Construction Process
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Once your product selections have been finalized, we will update the original quote to reflect your chosen materials if there is any difference in pricing.
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We will arrange for public utility locates before any excavation begins. A locator will need access to the exterior of your property to identify and mark any public underground utilities. In most cases, locates are completed within five business days of being requested.
If you are aware of any private underground utilities on your property, such as irrigation lines, landscape lighting, invisible dog fences, or privately installed gas or electrical lines, please let us know before excavation begins. This helps ensure they can be identified and protected during construction.
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Once your project has been scheduled, we will provide you with a confirmed start date and estimated arrival time.
On the first day of the project, we will mobilize the necessary equipment and materials to your property. If required, we will also complete a final walkthrough with you to confirm the project layout and paint the excavation limits before any work begins.
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During the excavation phase, we partner with a local bin company to remove excavated material from your property efficiently.
Using a disposal bin allows us to minimize unnecessary traffic across your driveway, reducing the need to repeatedly move equipment in and out of the work area. We will require space in your driveway for the bin, but whenever possible, we coordinate for it to be picked up before the end of the day so it does not remain on-site overnight.
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To keep your property as clean and organized as possible, we will determine the most appropriate method for delivering the gravel based on site access and the quantity required. Depending on the project, the material may be delivered in bulk on your driveway, in yard bags, or placed at the curb.
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We will require a designated area on your property for material deliveries, including pavers, retaining wall blocks, and any other project materials.
We work hard to keep the site organized and move materials into the work area as efficiently as possible to minimize disruption and keep your property accessible throughout the project.
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As your project nears completion, we will complete the finishing touches, thoroughly clean the work area, and conduct a final walkthrough with you to ensure every aspect of the project meets your expectations. If any final adjustments are needed, they will be completed before we consider the project finished.
Any remaining construction materials and debris will be removed from the site. We will also leave you with a spare piece of each paver size used on your project, giving you matching replacement pieces should they ever be needed in the future.
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Upon completion we will invoice you the remaining amount of the project. This will be the remaining percentage besides the initial down payment and any progress payments throughout the entirety of the project as described in the quote.