Hardscape Contractor in Greater Boston — Patios, Walls & Outdoor Living

Paver patios, outdoor kitchens, fire pit areas, and walkways — Schlickmann designs and builds hardscape with structural GC authority that landscape-only companies lack.

Typical Investment $12,000 – $60,000
Project Duration 1 – 3 weeks
License CSL-121587

Hardscape design and installation in Greater Boston is dominated by landscaping companies — but landscapers don't hold a general contractor's license. When your patio project requires a retaining wall over 4 feet, a gas line for an outdoor kitchen, or drainage correction tied to your foundation, you need a licensed GC. Schlickmann brings construction-grade structural knowledge to every hardscape project.

Our hardscape projects start with a design consultation that addresses the most-overlooked element: drainage. Poorly drained patios flood, create mosquito habitat, and direct water toward foundations. Schlickmann grades every patio away from the structure, installs perimeter drainage where needed, and coordinates with any foundation drainage systems to ensure the outdoor space performs for decades.

Material selection — concrete pavers, natural bluestone, granite, or porcelain tile — is matched to the home's architecture and the homeowner's maintenance preference. Concrete pavers are the most popular in Greater Boston for their durability and repairability. Natural bluestone is the premium choice for high-end Colonial and Victorian homes. Schlickmann has installed all of these in dozens of Greater Boston backyards.

Scope Includes

  • Site grading and drainage design
  • Excavation and compacted base installation
  • Concrete paver or natural stone patio installation
  • Outdoor kitchen rough-in: gas line, electrical, plumbing
  • Fire pit installation (gas or wood-burning)
  • Pergola or shade structure foundation
  • Staircase and step construction
  • Outdoor lighting rough-in
  • Permeable paver systems where required

Hardscape Design & Installation — FAQ

How much does a paver patio cost in Massachusetts?

Paver patio installation in Massachusetts typically costs $12,000–$35,000 for a standard 400–600 sq ft patio with concrete pavers, compacted base, and basic edging. Larger patios with natural bluestone, outdoor kitchen rough-in, or fire pit areas run $35,000–$60,000. Schlickmann includes proper grading and drainage in all patio pricing.

What's the difference between a landscaper and a GC for hardscape?

Landscapers can install paver patios on flat sites with simple drainage. A licensed general contractor (CSL-121587) can do all of that — plus build retaining walls over 4 feet requiring engineer review, install gas lines for outdoor kitchens, add electrical for lighting and outlets, and tie hardscape drainage into your foundation drainage system. When a project has structural or mechanical components, you need a GC.

Your Hardscape Design & Installation Project May Also Need…

Unlike specialty contractors who stop at one scope, Schlickmann can deliver the adjacent work under the same contract.

Remodeling & Additions Masonry & Foundations Custom Carpentry

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Licensed CSL-121587 · Fixed-price proposals · Serving Greater Boston since 2021

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