18-Hardscaping

Overview

Hardscaping emphasizes hands-on skill development through complete outdoor construction projects. Beginning with project planning and site preparation, students progress through layout, excavation, base preparation, paver installation, retaining walls, drainage systems, repairs, maintenance, and a complete paver patio or walkway capstone project.

Table of Contents

1. Chapter 1: Inspect and Plan Hardscaping Project
2. Chapter 2: Set Up Hardscaping Work Area
3. Chapter 3: Layout Walkway, Patio, or Paver Area
4. Chapter 4: Excavate and Prepare Hardscape Subgrade
5. Chapter 5: Install and Compact Gravel Base for Pavers
6. Chapter 6: Screed Bedding Sand for Pavers
7. Chapter 7: Install Straight Paver Walkway
8. Chapter 8: Install Paver Patio Field
9. Chapter 9: Cut and Fit Pavers
10. Chapter 10: Install Edge Restraints and Polymeric Sand
11. Chapter 11: Build Gravel Path or Crushed Stone Walkway
12. Chapter 12: Build Small Segmental Retaining Wall
13. Chapter 13: Install Retaining Wall Drainage
14. Chapter 14: Cap Retaining Wall or Seat Wall
15. Chapter 15: Build Outdoor Steps with Block, Stone, or Pavers
16. Chapter 16: Install Patio Border, Soldier Course, or Accent Band
17. Chapter 17: Install Surface Drainage for Patio or Walkway
18. Chapter 18: Repair Sunken, Loose, or Uneven Pavers
19. Chapter 19: Clean, Seal, and Maintain Hardscape Surfaces
20. Chapter 20: Capstone: Build Complete Paver Patio or Walkway

Learning Outcomes

• Inspect sites and plan residential hardscaping projects.
• Prepare safe and organized hardscape work areas.
• Layout walkways, patios, and paver installation areas.
• Excavate and prepare stable hardscape subgrades.
• Install compacted gravel bases and bedding sand systems.
• Install paver walkways, patios, borders, and accent features.
• Build segmental retaining walls and drainage systems.
• Construct outdoor steps using block, stone, and pavers.
• Repair, clean, seal, and maintain hardscape surfaces.
• Complete a residential paver patio or walkway project.