Soares Hardscape

Hardscaping Insights

Straight answers on cost, materials, maintenance and planning — written by the crew that builds it.

Finished stamped paver patio beside a Rhode Island home

Featured · Patios

What Does a Paver Patio Cost in Rhode Island?

A straightforward breakdown of what drives paver patio pricing in Rhode Island — size, material, access, grading and the base work you can't see.

July 14, 2026 · 6 min read

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Paver patio under construction showing base preparation

Materials

Pavers vs. Stamped Concrete: Which Is Better in New England?

Both look great on day one. Here's how pavers and stamped concrete actually perform after a decade of Rhode Island freeze-thaw cycles.

June 30, 2026 · 5 min read

Segmental block retaining wall along a planted slope

Retaining Walls

Why Retaining Walls Fail (and How Proper Drainage Prevents It)

Leaning walls are almost never a block problem. They're a water problem. Here's what belongs behind every retaining wall we build.

June 16, 2026 · 6 min read

Natural stone steps and paver walkway at a front entry

Planning

The Best Time of Year to Build a Patio in Rhode Island

Spring books out fast, summer is prime, and fall is the sleeper season. Here's how to time your hardscape project.

May 28, 2026 · 4 min read

Design

7 Outdoor Living Space Ideas That Add Real Value

Fire pits, seat walls, outdoor kitchens and lighting — the additions homeowners actually use after the first season.

May 12, 2026 · 5 min read

Clean brick paver walkway with stone border

Maintenance

How to Clean and Seal Pavers the Right Way

A simple maintenance routine that keeps a paver patio looking new — and the mistakes that stain it.

April 24, 2026 · 5 min read

Curved paver walkway bordered by planting beds

Walkways

Walkway Design: Small Changes With Huge Curb Appeal

Width, grade, lighting and border details — the choices that make a front walkway feel intentional.

April 8, 2026 · 4 min read

Paver driveway apron and walkway at the front of a home

Driveways

Driveways: Concrete vs. Asphalt vs. Pavers

Cost, lifespan, maintenance and curb appeal compared for Rhode Island driveways.

March 22, 2026 · 6 min read

Stone Veneer

Stone Veneer: The Fastest Way to Transform a Home Exterior

Where veneer works best, how it's installed, and how to choose natural versus manufactured stone.

March 5, 2026 · 5 min read

Hardscape crew preparing a compacted base for a patio

Planning

10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Hardscape Contractor

Insurance, base specs, timelines, cleanup and warranties — what to confirm before signing anything.

February 18, 2026 · 5 min read

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