Our Design Process: Tailored to You
Great patios and walkways don’t just happen—they’re designed with purpose. Our collaborative design process ensures that the final product not only looks stunning but fits your lifestyle, complements your home’s architecture, and performs well for years to come.
Here's what to expect:
- Consultation & Site Assessment: We begin with an on-site visit to evaluate the layout, drainage, sun exposure, and soil conditions. We also take the time to understand your goals, tastes, and how you plan to use the space.
- Conceptual Design: We create a scaled layout that integrates your desired features—seating areas, fire pits, pathways, or garden borders—while maintaining natural flow throughout the landscape.
- Material Selection: You’ll choose from high-quality materials suited to our local climate and your desired aesthetic. We’ll guide you through options for color, texture, and style.
- Budget Alignment: We offer transparent pricing and scalable design options to fit a range of budgets without compromising on quality or longevity.
Our Build Process: Made to Last
The Pacific Northwest’s climate presents unique challenges, from heavy rainfall to freeze-thaw cycles. That’s why our installation process is focused on structural integrity and long-term performance.
Our construction process includes:
- Excavation & Grading: We remove vegetation and topsoil, then grade the site to encourage proper drainage away from structures and reduce the risk of water pooling.
- Base Installation: A deep, compacted crushed gravel base ensures your patio or walkway remains level, drains properly, and resists settling or shifting.
- Precision Laying: Our expert team lays pavers, stones, or concrete with extreme attention to alignment, slope, and pattern.
- Edge Restraints & Joint Stabilization: We use edge restraints to lock materials in place and fill joints with polymeric sand to reduce weed growth and erosion.
- Final Finishes: We clean, compact, and seal (if applicable) the surface for a clean, professional look that’s easy to maintain.
Types of Materials
Pavers
Flagstone
Stamped Concrete
Gravel
Cost-effective, quick to install, and excellent for informal or woodland-style paths
Natural Stone Slabs
Brick
Classic, warm, and durable—perfect for colonial-style homes or historic properties
Where Patios & Walkways Make the Biggest Impact
Our custom patios and walkways can serve many purposes across your landscape:
- Backyard Entertaining Spaces: Create the ultimate outdoor living room with built-in seating, fire features, and outdoor kitchens.
- Front Entry Walkways: Add curb appeal with a beautiful, defined entry path that welcomes guests in style.
- Garden Paths: Encourage exploration through your landscape with gentle curves and natural textures.
- Poolside Patios: Durable and slip-resistant materials create a safe and stylish place to lounge by the water.
- Side Yard Connections: Turn overlooked areas into functional connectors between front and back yards.
Why Homeowners Choose Dig’um Dirtworks
✅ Local Expertise: We understand the soil, slope, and seasonal conditions unique to the Olympic Peninsula.
✅ Quality Workmanship: We never cut corners—our patios and walkways are built to handle the elements and last for decades.
✅ Custom Designs: No cookie-cutter solutions—just creative, site-specific layouts that reflect your personality and enhance your property.
✅ Turnkey Solutions: From design and excavation to final stone placement, we handle every step of the process.
Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Space?
FAQs About Patio and Walkway Design & Build
How long does it take to install a patio or walkway?
Depending on size and material choice, most projects take between 3–10 days from excavation to final cleanup.
What’s the best material for low-maintenance patios?
Concrete pavers and stamped concrete are popular low-maintenance choices. They’re durable, weed-resistant, and easy to clean.
Do you handle drainage and grading?
Absolutely. Proper drainage is critical to prevent pooling or erosion. We grade every site for long-term water management.
Can you incorporate fire pits or seating walls into patio designs?
Yes! We offer custom hardscape features like fire pits, retaining walls, and seating walls to elevate your outdoor living experience.
Do I need a permit for a patio?
That depends on size and location. We can guide you through local permitting requirements and handle the paperwork when needed.
How much does a custom patio cost?
Costs vary based on materials, site prep needs, and project size. We offer free estimates tailored to your specific vision and budget.
