Pool Patio and Granite Step Installation
This project focused on creating a cohesive poolside layout with upgraded pavers, custom granite steps, new coping, and landscape plantings. The backyard required grade adjustments due to an existing incline, making careful planning and execution critical to the final result.
Materials and Paver Selection
For this project, we used presealed Unilock Beacon Hill Smooth pavers throughout the patio areas, with Beacon Hill Smooth XL pavers installed around the pool for added scale and visual balance. A Copthorne border was incorporated to frame the space and define edges cleanly.
The presealed surface improves durability and makes routine maintenance easier over time.
Primary Pool Steps from Deck
We supplied and installed a custom set of Woodbury Grey split-faced granite steps leading from the base of the deck down to the pool patio. This primary staircase consists of three steps, starting with a 7 foot wide step at the patio level, followed by a 6 foot wide step, and finishing with a 5 foot wide step leading to the deck landing.
The steps were wrapped with large natural boulders to soften the transition and blend the structure into the surrounding landscape.
Secondary Pool Steps from Basement Entry
A second set of granite steps was installed from the basement door to the pool patio to provide additional access. This staircase includes three steps, each measuring 6 feet wide by 1 foot deep.
As with the primary steps, these were wrapped in large natural boulders to maintain a consistent look and provide visual continuity throughout the yard.
Pool Coping Installation
We installed Unilock Fullnose coping around the pool to create a smooth, finished edge. To prevent settling, we excavated and poured a 1 foot by 1 foot deep concrete collar around the entire pool perimeter.
The coping was then thin-set to the concrete collar using Ardex mortar, creating a strong and reliable bond designed for long-term performance.
Pool Patio and Walkways
We installed a new Unilock patio off the back deck using a combination of Beacon Hill Smooth XL Enduracolor pavers and Beacon Hill Smooth Enduracolor pavers with EasyClean, all in Steel Mountain color. The pavers were laid in a random pattern to add movement and visual interest.
A single soldier course border using Unilock Treo Enduracolor pavers in Charcoal was added to frame the patio and walkways. The total patio area measures approximately 1,100 square feet, including the walkways and landings connecting the pool to the house.
Landscape Plantings and Mulch
We supplied and installed new landscape plantings throughout the project area. Native soils were amended with plant-based compost at each planting location to support healthy root growth.
All planting beds were finished with 2 to 3 inches of brown mulch. Plants were double-watered before final cleanup, with ongoing watering handled by the homeowner based on site conditions.
Project Challenges and Solutions
The main challenge on this project was working with a backyard that sloped toward the pool area. To address this, we built up the grade where necessary to create proper transitions, stable surfaces, and consistent elevations across the patio and step areas.
Careful grading allowed the final layout to feel natural while improving usability and long-term performance.
