Quartzite Vs. Granite for Outdoor Kitchen Countertops

Outdoor kitchens have become a popular addition to backyards across the country… and rightly so! A space to entertain and cook while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors? Yes please. 

When it comes to selecting the right countertop material, quartzite and granite are two of the most popular choices. Both offer unique benefits and aesthetic qualities. So which is the better option for your outdoor kitchen? 

What Makes Quartzite a Great Option?

Ideal quartzite customers are discerning homeowners who love to entertain and cook outdoors. They value high-quality, durable materials that can handle heavy use and varying weather conditions. 

This customer appreciates elegant and natural aesthetics, seeking to enhance the beauty of their outdoor kitchen with a stylish and resilient countertop choice. They are willing to invest in premium materials that offer both functional benefits and long-lasting visual appeal.

Durability and Hardness

Quartzite is one of the hardest natural stones available, which means it is exceptionally durable and resistant to scratches and etching. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor kitchens, where surfaces are exposed to heavy use and potential damage from cooking utensils and appliances.

Heat Resistance

Quartzite is also highly heat resistant, capable of withstanding the intense temperatures that can be generated by outdoor grills and cooktops. This makes it a reliable option for countertops that may come into direct contact with hot pots and pans.

Aesthetic Appeal

Let’s not kid ourselves; when it comes to backyard additions, looks matter. So it’s important to note that quartzite is often chosen for a beautiful, natural appearance that can mimic the look of marble. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns, making it easy to find a style that complements your design.

Weather Resistance

Quartzite’s natural composition makes it resistant to weathering and UV radiation. It won’t fade or deteriorate when exposed to the elements, ensuring that your outdoor kitchen maintains its stunning appearance over time.

What Makes Granite a Great Option?

The ideal granite customer is a practical homeowner who values both functionality and variety in design. Unlike the quartzite customer, who prioritizes a marble-like elegance, the granite customer is drawn to the diverse range of colors and patterns granite offers, allowing for more personalized and bold design choices. 

Granite is renowned for its strength and resistance to scratches and chipping, making it a reliable choice for heavy use. Homeowners also appreciate its ease of maintenance, as it’s a surface that stays in excellent condition with regular sealing. Heat and weather-resistant, this durable material helps maintain the beauty and functionality of an outdoor kitchen for the long-term.

Strength and Durability

Granite is renowned for its strength and durability. Like quartzite, it can handle heavy use and is resistant to scratches and chipping. This makes it a dependable choice for outdoor kitchen countertops that will see a lot of action.

Variety of Colors and Patterns

Granite offers a wider range of colors and patterns than quartzite, providing more options to align with your unique design preferences. From subtle, uniform patterns to bold, dramatic veining, granite can add a unique touch to your outdoor space.

Heat and Weather Resistance

Granite is also highly resistant to heat and can handle hot cookware without sustaining damage. Its durability extends to weather resistance, as it does not easily fade or degrade when exposed to sunlight and other outdoor elements.

Ease of Maintenance

Granite countertops are relatively easy to maintain with regular sealing. This helps to protect the surface from stains and ensures that it remains in excellent condition for years to come.

Bottom Line: Your Countertop Type

You might choose quartzite if you are…

1. An avid entertainer who frequently hosts outdoor parties and gatherings. You need a durable, heat-resistant surface that can withstand heavy use, high temperatures, and potential rough handling by guests, while also looking elegant and stylish.

2. A design-conscious homeowner looking to create a luxurious outdoor kitchen. You appreciate the natural, marble-like beauty of quartzite and want a unique and visually stunning surface that complements your high-end outdoor living space.

3. A busy parent with active kids who often use the outdoor kitchen. You need a resilient surface that can handle scratches, spills, and general wear and tear, while also proving easy to maintain and weather-resistant.

You might choose granite if you are…

1. A practical homeowner who values functionality and variety in design. You appreciate granite's strength and resistance to scratches and chipping, and you enjoy the wide range of colors and patterns available.

2. A culinary enthusiast who frequently cooks outdoors. You need a heat-resistant surface that can handle hot cookware without damage, and you value a dependable material that will remain in top condition despite frequent use.

3. A homeowner looking for an easy-to-maintain outdoor kitchen surface. You prefer a material that stays in excellent condition with regular sealing, ensuring long-lasting durability and weather resistance with minimal effort on your part.

In conclusion, both quartzite and granite offer excellent options for outdoor kitchen countertops. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, design preferences, and the level of maintenance you are willing to undertake. 

Whether you prefer the marble-like beauty of quartzite or the diverse options provided by granite, both materials will enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your outdoor kitchen. The best first step is to talk with an outdoor-living expert, share your backyard goals, and learn about the pros and cons of all material options.

The team atDecra-Scapewould love to help with your outdoor kitchen project. For more inspiration, check out our gallery of our work, read more on the blog, or catch up with us onInstagram.

Guide to Segmental Retaining Walls

Whether installing retaining walls to make sloping terrain usable, to hold back soil for flower beds or patios, or to help prevent erosion, the design, materials selection, and construction of these vertical structures can be quite an involved process. 

But depending on your needs, a traditional retaining wall might not be your only option. Modern segmental retaining walls offer a cost-effective, durable, and simpler alternative to more classic retaining walls. Here are the details:

What Is a Segmental Retaining Wall?

Segmental retaining walls are modular walls made of concrete blocks that interlock together. Their most common application is to hold back soil on sloping terrain. 

How do these walls work? Individual blocks can be dry-stacked without the need for mortar to hold them in place. The interlocking mechanisms and the friction between the blocks are sufficient to hold the wall securely.

Segmental retaining walls can be constructed in various sizes: up to 20 feet, and even higher in commercial applications with proper soil reinforcement.

Construction of traditional retaining walls, in comparison, typically involves materials such as poured concrete, stone, or brick. This requires mortar or concrete to bind materials together. Traditional walls also necessitate a solid concrete base or deep footings to maintain stability—particularly in frost-prone areas like our Michigan climate.

The process of installing a traditional retaining wall is labor-intensive and requires specialized expertise to ensure precise placement and alignment. And, due to their rigid structure and lack of flexibility, traditional walls are more prone to cracking from soil movement or temperature fluctuations.

Although a great option in the right situation, the complexity of traditional retaining walls make the segmental route a great option for many.

The Advantages of a Segmental Retaining Wall

Because segmental retaining walls use interlocking, modular concrete blocks that can be dry-stacked without mortar, their construction is simplified. This has the dual benefit of reducing installation time and offering greater long-term flexibility, since the blocks can move slightly without compromising the wall’s integrity.

Additionally, segmental walls typically require only a well-compacted gravel base, further reducing construction complexity and cost. The flexibility of these walls allows for the footing of the retaining wall to be placed above the frost line, making them suitable for various applications in a range of climates. 

The manufactured concrete blocks, coupled with the easier installation process, can significantly reduce the overall cost of construction.

Use Cases & Examples

If you’re wondering how segmental retaining walls can improve your yard, here are some ideas to consider:

Terraces in a Sloped Yard: Creating multiple levels in a sloped backyard, providing flat areas for planting, seating, or play spaces

Garden Beds: Constructing raised garden beds that are visually appealing and easy to maintain

Erosion Control: Preventing soil erosion in sloped areas, protecting other landscape features and plantings

Outdoor Living Spaces: Forming the backdrop for outdoor living areas such as patios, decks, or outdoor kitchens

Driveway or Walkway Borders: Defining the edges of driveways or walkways, preventing soil and mulch from spilling over

Pool Surroundings: Creating a stylish and functional border around swimming pools or hot tubs

Separation and Privacy: Building low walls to create a sense of privacy or to define different areas of the yard

Retaining Hillsides: Stabilizing hillsides to prevent landslides or soil movement, particularly in areas prone to heavy rains

Decorative Elements: Adding visual interest with curves and varying heights to the landscape design

Seating Walls: Constructing walls that double as seating areas around fire pits or garden features

Design and Construction Considerations

While the construction process of segmental retaining walls is highly simplified compared to their traditional counterparts, designing and incorporating this feature into your landscape still requires hardscape expertise.

The height of the wall and the strength and thickness of the blocks must be carefully calculated to suit the volume of soil being retained. In some cases, the wall must be installed with more stable backfill soil or gravel and further reinforced by geogrid layers to help retain the soil.

Drainage is also a crucial aspect of any retaining wall design, and segmented retaining walls are no different. Water buildup in the backfill and retained soil can cause hydrostatic pressure to accumulate and potentially stress the retaining wall beyond its limits. 

Weep holes are a go-to solution for addressing this issue. These small gaps in the wall allow the water immediately behind the wall to drain out. Additionally, drainage lines with perforated pipes extending back into the backfill can guide water to the drainage holes, providing extra drainage capacity.

Conclusion

Segmental retaining walls provide a modern, efficient solution for both residential and commercial landscaping projects. By understanding the benefits and necessary construction considerations, property owners can create durable, attractive, and functional retaining walls that enhance the landscape while addressing practical needs.

Getting Started with Segmental Retaining Walls

Have more questions about segmental retaining walls? We’d love to discuss the options with you. 

For more inspiration, check out our gallery of our work, read more on the Decra-Scape blog, or catch up with us on Instagram. 

How to Clean a Stone Walkway: 9 Tips to Maintain Beauty and Durability

Natural stone walkways are like the backbone of your outdoor space: strong, essential, and striking. But they need regular care to stay that way. The key is to clean your stone walkway in the right way. 

This isn't just about looks; it's about keeping stone walkways sturdy and avoiding damage over time. Whether tackling stains or preventing slippery moss, using the right walkway cleaning methods will keep your outdoor pathways safe and attractive for years to come. That’s where our 9-point checklist comes in:

1. Make Simple Maintenance a Habit

Regular upkeep is vital for maintaining the condition of your stone walkway, and it starts with something as simple as regularly sweeping away debris with a soft broom. 

This “everyday” step not only prevents dirt and leaves from building up but also reduces the risk of scratches or stains on the stones’ surface.

2. Adopt Effective Washing Techniques

For routine cleaning, use a mild detergent or specialized stone soap with a soft-bristled brush. This method effectively removes spills, de-icing chemicals, and other contaminants—without compromising the stone’s natural texture. 

Always rinse thoroughly to prevent residue buildup, which can detract from the walkway’s appearance and lead to a slippery surface in the long-term.

3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Some people think “harsh” means “powerful.” In many cases, that might be true, but it’s important to weigh the downsides in making your selections. 

Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals, such as bleach or acidic cleaners, which are so powerful that they can damage the stone as well as surrounding vegetation. Opt instead for pH-neutral cleaners to safely remove mold, mildew, and stains without compromising the stone’s durability.

In Michigan, de-icing is often a major factor in your stone walkway’s care as well, so be sure you research the best de-icers for your walkway’s material before damaging the stone.

Learn more: 

Freeze-Thaw Resilience: Choosing the Right Materials & Maintenance for Michigan Winters

4. Cleanup Spills Immediately

Have you ever spilled something and thought, “well, at least it was outside!” We all have, but don’t be fooled. Waiting too long to clean a mess on your stone walkway—or doing a mediocre cleanup job—can leave long-term damage.

Promptly blot spills and messes to prevent them from penetrating the stone and causing permanent stains. If the spilled material isn’t too difficult to remove, employ the simple, gentle cleaning method described above. For more difficult messes, it can be helpful to keep a commercial stone cleaner on hand—one that’s designed for your walkway’s material. 

This proactive approach to spills will help maintain your walkway’s pristine look for years to come.

5. Consider Regular Power-Washing

If you haven’t experienced the effectiveness of a good power washer, now might be the time. 

Consider periodically using a power washer to deep-clean your stone walkway, particularly in high-traffic areas or where stubborn stains have developed. 

But remember: not all power is good power. Use moderate pressure to avoid damaging the stone or dislodging jointing compounds between stones.

6. Inspect for Structural Integrity

Regularly inspecting your stone walkway is a proactive way to maintain its integrity and appearance.

Start by walking along the path and closely examining the surface for any signs of wear, such as cracks, spalling (where small pieces of stone break off), or uneven settling. If you notice any of these issues, take action promptly:

• For minor cracks, consider filling them with a suitable stone patching compound to prevent them from worsening. 

• Addressing spalling may involve carefully chipping away loose pieces and then smoothing the area with a stone-safe sealant to protect it from further deterioration. 

• Uneven settling can often be corrected by adding more base material beneath the stones and gently leveling them to restore the walkway's stability.

In each case, it’s best to talk with a hardscaping expert before planning the best approach to repairs.

7. Maintain Jointing Compounds

Keep jointing compounds between stones in good condition to prevent weed growth and maintain the walkway’s aesthetic appeal. 

To do this, you can reapply jointing compound as needed. And remember the weeds: whether you prefer organic weed-control methods or otherwise, employ your preferred methods consistently to control unwelcome and destructive growth.

8. Select and Apply Sealant

For many Decra-Scape clients, regular walkway care would not be complete without sealant. To apply, we first clean the walkway and allow it to dry thoroughly. We then apply a suitable sealant to protect the stone from moisture, UV rays, and general wear.

Consult with a professional to choose the right type of sealant, whether surface or penetrating. Professional sealing is sure to help enhance your walkway’s durability—and simplify future maintenance.

9. Consult with Experts for Customized Advice

For personalized guidance on caring for your stone walkway, consult with a professional hardscape specialist. Even a great, 9-point checklist can’t provide the expertise of tailored recommendations based on your specific stone type, climate conditions, and maintenance preferences.

Enhancing Your Outdoor Environment

By following these expert tips and maintaining a regular cleaning schedule, you can extend the lifespan and beauty of your natural stone walkway. Treating your walkway with care not only enhances its visual appeal but also helps ensure that it remains a functional and inviting part of your outdoor environment for years to come.

Have more questions about how to clean your stone walkway? We’d love to discuss the options with you. 

For more inspiration, check out our gallery of our work, read more on the Decra-Scape blog, or catch up with us on Instagram. 

The Paver Palette: The Most Popular Brick Paver Colors

When a homeowner is working to make the most out of an outdoor space—like turning a side yard into a patio—few elements are as transformative as brick pavers. 

Paver bricks are durable, versatile, and—if chosen and installed correctly—can be a beautiful addition to your yard. 

Pavers can elevate a simple patio into an outdoor oasis or a plain driveway into a grand entrance. But with so many colors to choose from, how do you decide which is right for your project? Here, we will walk you through the many colors of pavers and explore how and when to use each one. 

Red Is Timeless

Red pavers are most often associated with brick, making this the quintessential choice for those who appreciate a traditional look. Imagine a winding brick pathway leading to a charming garden, or a stately brick driveway welcoming you home. What color are the paver bricks in your mind? 

The beauty of red bricks lies in their rich, warm look and their versatility: they can appear rustic or refined, depending on how they are used and paired with other elements.

Tan Is Subtle (as is Beige)

For those who prefer a more understated look, tan and beige brick pavers are an excellent option. As neutral tones, both tan and beige blend seamlessly with various architectural styles and landscaping designs. 

Whether you're creating a minimalist modern patio or a cozy cottage garden, tan and beige pavers provide a soft, inviting foundation that can complement any setting or aesthetic. Their subtlety allows other design elements—such as vibrant flowers or intricate outdoor furniture—to take center stage.

Gray Is Sleek & Modern

Gray brick pavers are synonymous with modern elegance. Their sleek, clean lines and cool tones make them a favorite for contemporary designs. Gray pavers can also create a striking contrast with lush green lawns and colorful plantings, which is one of the reasons they make a great paver color option for red brick homes. 

On top of their sleek, modern look, gray paver bricks are a versatile choice: they are available in a wide range of shades, from light silver to deep charcoal.

Brown Is Inviting

Brown brick pavers offer a warm and welcoming vibe, and the range of brown shades, from light caramel to deep chocolate, allows for a variety of design possibilities.

Brown pavers are particularly effective in creating a natural, earthy look that blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Picture a rustic garden path meandering through tall grasses and blooming flowers, or a charming, brown brick patio surrounded by trees. 

The warmth of brown pavers adds a touch of comfort and hominess to a backyard landscape.

Charcoal Is Sophisticated

We like gray pavers so much that we must highlight it’s deeper-toned cousin: charcoal. 

For those who love to make a statement, charcoal brick pavers are the way to go. Often found among modern and industrial designs, deep, dark-toneed charcoal pavers communicate a sense of sophistication. 

When paired with lighter elements like white walls or light-colored gravel, charcoal pavers create a striking look. Consider using them for a sleek, urban courtyard or a contemporary garden. 

Blended Colors Offer it All

There’s no rule that says you must narrow brick paver options down to just one color. Blended or multi-color brick pavers combine two or more hues to create a dynamic and interesting surface for your outdoor space. 

For example, a mix of red and brown pavers can create the look of aged, weathered bricks and rustic charm. A blend of gray and tan can create an elevated, yet inviting feel, perfect for a modern patio with a warm twist.

Blended pavers offer endless design possibilities, allowing you to create a truly unique and personalized space.

Choosing the Right Color for Your Space

All in all, when selecting the perfect brick paver color for your project, consider the overall style of your home and landscape. Think about how the paver color will complement or contrast with other elements in the space, such as the exterior of your house, the colors of your plants, and any outdoor furniture or decor you may have.

It's also important to consider the mood you want to create. Are you hoping for a space that feels warm and inviting? Or going for a more sleek and modern feel? Whether you’re targeting an artistic, dynamic, or visually stimulating vibe, the color of your pavers can play a significant role in setting the tone for your outdoor area.

So some time, explore your options, speak with an expert, and choose the color that best reflects your style and vision. With the right brick pavers, your outdoor space can become a true reflection of your personality and taste, providing a beautiful and functional area for relaxation and enjoyment.

Have more questions about your paver options? We’d love to discuss the options with you. 

For more inspiration, check out our gallery of our work, read more on the Decra-Scape blog, or catch up with us on Instagram.