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May 3, 2022 Outdoor Kitchens by The Stone Man 0 Comments

The Top 6 Considerations When Adding a Grill Island to Your Charlotte Backyard

Adding a grill or grill island to your backyard is a wonderful long-term investment in your home. According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, 75% of adults in the U.S. own a grill or smoker.

So whether you are looking to create an entertainment space, feed your family, or add resale value to your home, grills in Charlotte, NC, can meet your needs. When adding a grill to your backyard landscape, there are lots of considerations to give thought to before beginning the project.

Read on for the top 6 considerations when adding an outdoor grill kitchen to your home.

1. Layout

Even in spacious backyards, the layout of your outdoor grill island space will be an important consideration. If you place the grill area in an inconvenient spot or in a place that interrupts the flow of your backyard, you may be left with buyer’s regret.

It’s important to consult an expert to help you plan your design and layout. A seasoned expert can help you spot potential issues with your preferred placement and come up with options and alternatives.

2. Materials

When it comes to outdoor grill islands, material choice is a critical consideration. From brick to tile to stone, each material has its own distinct look, and not all of them may be appropriate for your situation.

For example, if you have a desert-like backyard, brick will probably not be a top choice to fit the aesthetic. If you are looking for a highly customizable kitchen, tile may be a good choice.

A professional will be able to present all of your material choices, walk you through the pros and cons of each, and provide honest recommendations before moving forward.

3. Design Elements

Grills in Charlotte, NC, need to be functional but also feature smart and beautiful designs. You want your grill to be easy to use and act as a design element or feature rather than stick out.

In an ideal world, your outdoor kitchen will blend in seamlessly with your hardscape or landscape. With a little planning and smart material choices, your outdoor kitchen BBQ can act as a beautiful feature of your backyard.

4. Installation Timeline

The installation timeline for outdoor grills can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. It may take a few weeks to order in custom materials in some instances. In cases where your design incorporates many elements like shade and custom storage, the timeline will also be a bit longer.

Before you start the process, work with your outdoor grill professional to set expectations. If you have an event or other time constraint in the mix, make sure to communicate that before the project starts.

5. Cleaning & Maintenance

To keep your outdoor grill kitchen looking good, you’ll need to invest in cleaning and maintenance. How much cleaning and maintenance is required is an important consideration as you begin your project.

Some materials require more cleaning than others, and some designs will be more difficult to clean regularly or may be a draw for outdoor debris. Consider whether you will be doing the cleaning and maintenance yourself or whether you’ll be able to hire a professional to ensure your grill stays in good condition.

6. Grill Features

While your outdoor grill area can be a beautiful design element, you’ll also want to ensure it can accommodate your actual grilling needs. Do you grill meat that requires a lot of preparation space? Or do you only occasionally grill vegetables that can be accommodated by a smaller grill?

The grill should be the starting point for your design, and the supporting material should be built around it. Make sure to talk to your design expert about what grill features you want and need.

Components of a Grill Island

One of the most important considerations occurs after you have finitely decided that a grill island is the way to go. What type of grill should you choose? There are so many options available so you want to find the variety most suited to you and your needs.

Grills are defined by the amount of fuel you use. You could opt for a gas or charcoal grill depending on your objectives for grilling (gas makes grilling easier but can be more expensive while charcoal gives you that traditional barbecue taste) or you could select a Green Egg or Kamado grill. You can opt for the flexibility of a roll in grill or select a more permanent built-in option. There are pluses and minuses to each choice and it’s good to do your homework on each before diving in.

Trust The Stone Man for Your Grill Islands

With the help of The Stone Man, you can create your dream outdoor living area. We focus on what is most important to you, and our talented staff brings expertise and enthusiasm to each outdoor living design.

Our company mission is to improve the lives of our clients and the community at large. Working with us is like having a family member in the business. To get started on your outdoor grill project, contact us today.

May 3, 2022 Pool Decks by The Stone Man 0 Comments

4 Noteworthy Pool Coping Ideas for You to Consider When Designing Your Pool

If you are in the process of installing or remodeling your in-ground pool, you know that every pool decision is an important one. From pool shape to water type to pool deck ideas, there’s a lot to consider.

Decisions about the materials and design of your pool elements can impact the price, timeline for installation, and ultimate longevity of your project. Selecting pool coping is no exception.

Read on to learn more about 4 different types of pool coping and the pros and cons of each.

1. Travertine

Travertine is well known for being durable and can withstand just about any temperature. It is heat resistant making it perfect for enjoying your pool in hot temperatures.

This material also acts as a non-slip surface which can be an added safety feature for homeowners with pets or children. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, slips around pools are considered to be a major accident pattern in pool-related injuries.

The primary con to travertine pool coping is that it is porous. These pores make it easier for water and dirt to slip through and reduce the natural beauty.

2. Porcelain

Porcelain coping is highly durable, lightweight, and especially sought after for high-end designs. Modern porcelain also comes in a variety of styles and colors. It is easy to clean and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, so it will last for years to come.

The cons of porcelain coping include the cost and challenges with brittleness and installation. Porcelain costs more than concrete, so it will require a bigger upfront investment.

When it comes to installation, porcelain is also brittle and harder to cut or drill than concrete. This fragility can contribute to a higher cost of installation and more design work to accommodate the brittle nature of the material.

3. Pavers

Pavers offer a wide range of colors and styles which make them a nice choice for a variety of pool aesthetics. Modern pavers are less porous than travertine, are installed easily, and can be replaced easily. Pavers can be a great pool coping option especially if the pool deck is also done with pavers as they coordinate seamlessly together.

They are also very durable. The downside is that some homeowners looking for a seamless and high-end look tend to be unable to find what they seek in paver-based solutions. In addition, pavers can be warmer than other options especially if darker in color.

4. Natural Stone

Natural pool coping stones offer many of the same benefits as concrete. It is available in different designs and can be incorporated into a variety of different pool and pool deck designs. It also offers a non-slippery surface and is durable, so you won’t find yourself needing to replace it every few years.

It lasts longer than concrete, so it often acts as a similar but alternative product for homeowners. On the other hand, natural stone has an extremely porous texture which is great to prevent slips and falls, but it can be more difficult to clean and can lose its appearance over time.

Irregular Pattern Natural Stone Coping

Straight Cut Natural Stone Coping

Trust The Stone Man for Your Pool Coping

The Stone Man offers a comprehensive and personalized service that allows you to make outdoor living better. We believe doing the right thing is more important than profits and speed. Our process ensures that each client gets unmatched customer service coupled with the highest quality craft.

We are here to walk you through the process, from consultation to design to build. Whether you need help designing your pool or incorporating your pool deck ideas, we can help. Our team wants you to be comfortable throughout the whole process and come away loving your new pool.

The Stone Man offers a number of products, including pool coping stone, pavers, and more. Contact us today to get started on your pool project.

March 15, 2022 Hardscape by The Stone Man 0 Comments

How Hardscapes and Landscapes Integrate into a Beautiful Backyard

Your home is a haven, a place of relaxation, and a welcome respite for you and your loved ones. You have carefully cultivated your customized decor, stylish furniture, and tasteful colors to impart a sense of uniqueness and belonging to your house that makes it yours and your families.

As with what’s contained within your four walls, your outdoor spaces beyond are also a reflection of your aesthetic and style. You already invest in first-class landscaping for your lawn, trees, bushes, flowers, and shrubs.

While a beautiful garden can enhance your outdoors, nothing can work wonders for your home’s visual appeal and functionality as much as custom hardscaping in Charlotte, NC.

While foliage and greenery can breathe life into your outdoors, carefully curated and meticulously designed hardscaping will be the perfect complement to create a one-of-a-kind oasis of your dreams.

Combine Landscaping and Hardscaping to Create Your Own Outdoor Sanctuary

You might wonder what custom hardscaping will do for your home. Imagine stepping into your yard to lounge with your favorite book and a piping hot cup of tea while admiring the beauty of nature, those chirping birds, around you.

Elevate your outdoor living experience to a new level with a custom-built patio, fire pit, benches, gazebo, walkways, and fountains. Impress your neighbors as you entertain in your outdoor kitchen, complete with a cooking grill and brick fire oven. There are no limits to what your outdoor haven can achieve with hardscaping.

A professional hardscape design expert will design and create a customized outdoor living experience to bring your unique vision to life. From strategic design considerations to elevated outdoor comfort, well-built hardscaping will be just the finishing touch to provide you with a whole new level of luxury.

Create Your Own Outdoor Paradise With Exceptional Hardscaping

You might want to create a zen-like space with pebbled walkways, dreamy fountains, serene waterfalls, a cozy fire pit, or an ultra-comfortable patio. If you often host Carolina Panthers viewing parties or monthly book clubs, adding a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen, warm fireplace, chic patio, or welcoming gazebo to your backyard will entice guests to stay longer, even after the event timeline has technically ended.

Combining hardscapes and landscapes in your Charlotte home can have so many advantages. Not only are you adding exquisite features to the exteriors of your home, but well-designed additions can also be the source of endless experiences and memories for a long time to come.

Create Secluded Spaces and Enjoy Privacy in Your Backyard

Hardscaping features, such as a pergola, gazebo, or stone wall, can give you just the right amount of privacy to lounge and relax outside your home. Protect yourself from the sun and enjoy the fresh air without having to retreat indoors for comfort.

Your Home Looks Great All Year Around

When frost sets in, you might miss the flower beds and greenery. However, your hardscaping is here to stay, no matter the weather.

Gorgeous pathways, serene patios, immaculate pool decks, tranquil rock features, and more can ensure that your property is as stunning as ever. Light up your hardscaping features to make them stand out after the sun goes down.

Expand Your Living Spaces Seamlessly

You do not have to confine yourself indoors, especially on picture-perfect days. With your custom outdoor kitchen, patio, and seating, relax and recuperate in new living spaces with nature as the backdrop. Entertain by the pool and dine outside with your family and friends.

Not looking forward to the chilliest days in North and South Carolina? Install a stylish fireplace and cozy up, rain or shine.

Exceptional Landscape and Hardscape Companies Near Me

Landscaping and hardscaping are like the yin and yang tied together to render a heightened level of exquisiteness and functionality to your home. While you will love your home even more, your attractive backyard will certainly evoke envy in the neighbors.

How do I find reputable hardscapers near me? Look no further. The Stone Man is a leading provider of professional hardscaping services in Charlotte, NC. Our talented team will provide you with a thorough consultation, property review, and breathtaking designs, then build your unique project to perfection.

We take pride in using only the highest quality materials along with our committed customer service experience.

Don’t hesitate to talk to our exceptional team, whether you want a complete backyard transformation or a unique hardscape feature.

Contact The Stone Man today to schedule a consultation.

March 15, 2022 Hardscape by The Stone Man 0 Comments

5 Cozy Fire Pit Seating Ideas

Your fire pit isn’t just a gathering spot for friends and family. It’s the gathering spot when it comes to outdoor living. It’s a place to make lasting memories, the setting for good times to be had by all. In summer, it’s where you roast s’mores and rub shoulders with family you maybe haven’t seen in awhile. In autumn, it’s where you and your dearest cozy up with a glass of wine and top-notch conversation. It’s a convenient way to get that taste of the great outdoors without actually leaving Charlotte.

However, it would be pretty much impossible to evoke any of the feelings above if comfortable seating wasn’t part of the equation. You don’t want anyone to be left out of the huddle, to be too far away to join in on festivities, or to simply be sitting on something uncomfortable.

Your fire pit seating can be as elaborate and whimsical or as subtle and straightforward as you like. There are truthfully endless options. Below are five of our favorite outdoor fire pit seating ideas, with a little something for everyone’s aesthetic.

1. Adirondack Chairs

Custom Fire Pit Feature Design fire pit seating ideas

Adirondack chairs are perhaps the most classic seating option for fire pits and backyard patios. They’re comfortable, versatile, and available in different color options to coordinate with any color scheme. They are easy to recline in because of their contoured design, creating an incredibly relaxing atmosphere to take in the warming fire. They have wide armrests, too, if you need to set down a glass or a plate. Bonus, more often than not they are portable so if you need to rearrange their positioning, it is super easy to do so. They will simply never go out of style.

2. Wicker Patio Furniture

A wicker furniture set offers a timeless, cohesive, zen look to any backyard fire pit. Not only is wicker an attractive and very durable option, but it also creates a calming atmosphere around your fire pit.

Wicker patio furniture provides an excellent backdrop for incorporating your design, such as cushions and decorative pillows. Lightweight wicker furniture will also allow guests to sit as close to the fire pit as they feel comfortable. Wicker sets also often come with an accompanying table so if you want to switch up the vibe, it’s easy to do so so.

We know pollen season gets pretty ridiculous in North Carolina come spring time so another great advantage to wicker is that it’s easy to clean.

3. Sunken Fire Pit with Built-In Stone Seating

Source: https://freshpatio.com/sunken-patio-fire-pit-ideas/

A sunken fire pit with built-in seating creates an all-encompassing backyard experience with careful and intentional planning. Bring the feeling of a luxurious retreat to your home with a full bench surrounding your sunken stone fire pit. You can incorporate cushions, pillows, and blankets to amplify the aesthetic.

4. Circular Stone Benches

Stone benches are one of the most beautiful fire pit seating ideas but can also be one of the most elaborate. Stone may not sound like the coziest of fire pit seating ideas, but throw pillows, and bench cushions can make a whole world of difference.

Many homeowners with stone fire pits choose to incorporate the same type of stone elsewhere in their hardscaping, and a circular bench is a great place to do that. Most circular stone benches are custom-built to match the exact dimensions and aesthetic of the rest of the area, which we recommend leaving to the professionals.

5. Honorable Mentions

You can be creative with your fire pit seating options, especially when hosting a crowd. Adding multi-purpose features and decorations to your hardscape design provides extra seats for visitors. Decorative tree stumps, lounge chairs, and transitional patio furniture are great options.

As you choose components for your hardscape patio, think bigger by selecting elements that will allow your space to grow and shift depending on the groups you host. When considering additional seating options, keep in mind the different types of visitors you may host around the fire pit to ensure all guests have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Start Your Fire Pit Seating Project

Whether you’re designing a stone fire pit in Charlotte, NC, from scratch, or upgrading your current one, look no further than the expert team at The Stone Man. With more than 20 years of hardscaping experience, we’ve transformed dull backyards into impressive works of art. Contact The Stone Man team to plan your hardscaping project!