Complete backyard overhaul in Lake Forest, IL - new patio, walkway, steps, etc.
When a Lake Forest, Illinois homeowner was ready to replace an outdated wooden deck and transform their entire backyard into a permanent, functional outdoor living space, they called National Brick Paver & Stone. What followed was a complete backyard overhaul — demolition of the existing deck, full regrading, and installation of a thermal bluestone patio, walkway, and steps that will perform and look beautiful for decades.
The existing deck was removed entirely — structure, footings, and all. A clean removal is the only correct starting point for a project of this scope. From there, full backyard regrading was completed to establish correct drainage across the entire yard and create the level, usable outdoor space the homeowner needed. Proper grading is the foundation of every successful hardscape installation — without it, water management problems persist regardless of how well the surface materials are installed.
The patio surface was installed using thermal bluestone — full dimensional — custom cut to the exact dimensions of the space and set in mortar throughout. Mortar-set natural stone is the only installation method appropriate for a permanent patio in Illinois freeze-thaw conditions. The finished surface is tight, level, and built to stay that way without shifting, separating, or requiring ongoing maintenance.
Bluestone chips were installed in the inlaid garden beds throughout the patio design — contained cleanly within the hardscape layout and creating a natural, organic contrast against the refined stone surface. The offset patio areas and inlaid bed design give this installation a custom, designed quality that sets it apart from a standard rectangular patio installation.
New entry steps were installed in bluestone to match the patio surface — mortared in with weeping cords to pull water away from the concrete base and prevent moisture buildup behind the stone through Illinois winters. Every transition from patio level to yard level was designed and built with the correct proportions for comfortable, safe use.
The hot tub pad was integrated directly into the patio layout — properly supported and positioned as part of the overall design rather than as an afterthought. The full project was regraded for drainage, finished with clean edges, and delivered on time and on budget.
This Lake Forest project demonstrates what a complete backyard transformation looks like when every element — demolition, grading, stone, steps, drainage, and design — is handled by one experienced team with a unified vision. Whether you are searching for a bluestone patio installation Lake Forest IL, backyard overhaul contractor North Shore, thermal bluestone patio Illinois, deck removal and patio install near me, or complete backyard renovation Chicagoland — National Brick Paver & Stone delivers.
We proudly serve Lake Forest, Highland Park, Lake Bluff, Glencoe, Deerfield, Northbrook, Winnetka, and all surrounding Illinois communities. Contact us today for a free consultation.
