When embarking on a landscaping project, it’s important to understand the different design elements that go into outdoor living spaces, and how they interplay with one another. These elements generally fit into one of two categories: hardscaping and softscaping.

While these may seem like obscure industry terms, it can be useful to understand the difference between the two. This will help homeowners and designers create an appropriate design for the space, using hardscaping and softscaping elements appropriately and in concert with one another to create a fully functional landscape.

We’ll begin with basic definitions.

Hardscaping:

The Spruce defines hardscaping as the “non-living elements” of landscaping. This includes paver patios, retaining walls, driveways, fences, benches and the like. Generally, hardscape elements are more practical (patios, fences) but can also be decorative (benches, pergolas). In addition, features such as outdoor fireplaces or water fountains are included under the definition of hardscaping.

Softscaping:

In comparison, softscaping refers to the living, horticultural elements of landscape. Ultimately, softscape means plants – from grass and shrubs, to annual and perennial flowers, and even vegetables in a garden.

The challenge of creating an effective landscape design is figuring out how to mix hardscape and softscape elements together to create a cohesive, functional outdoor space. The two complement each other well – for example, softening the appearance of a fence with tall spring bulb plants, or covering a wall or pergola with vines for a lush, earthy effect. One easy way to mix hardscaping and softscaping is by placing container plants on the edges of a patio. The possibilities are truly endless!

To find out how Borgert Products can help make your hardscaping vision come to life, visit our product galleries or contact us for more information.

Borgert is a Minnesota-based, family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Get a quote today on your Borgert products.

If you’ve browsed Pinterest or Houzz for patio inspiration, you’ve probably seen a lot of images of big, beautiful patios, with a fireplace, large grill, lounge seating and a table for 10. But what if you, like many of us, simply don’t have that kind of space? Smaller patios can still be a comfortable, lovely space to enjoy the warm months. It just may take a bit more creativity.

We’ll share some of our favorite ideas from Houzz. We’d love to see your smaller patios – share ideas and photos on our Facebook page!

Use Built-Ins

Turn a wall into a bench to add seating without taking up extra space.

Create Continuity

Using the same pavers on the patio and surrounding spaces (i.e. walkways and steps) will avoid visual disruption, making the patio appear larger than it actually is.

Add Landscape Lighting

Lighting can make a huge difference in the atmosphere of a patio. Use lanterns and stakes at ground level to create ambience without taking up much space.

Scale Furniture Appropriately

If you have a long, narrow patio, choose a table with the same dimensions. You could also push the table against one wall to add space, pulling it out only when you have a larger number of dinner guests.

Consider Café Furniture

A bistro table and chairs won’t take up visual space on a patio, and is easy to fold up and put away when not in use.

Go Vertical

Add greenery without sacrificing space by choosing climbing plants and trellises.

Add Color

Brightly-colored plants, furniture and furnishings will give your patio a unique, sophisticated flair, no matter its size.

Ready to upgrade your patio? Visit our product gallery to find the best pavers for your small patio!

Borgert is a Minnesota-based, family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Get a quote today on your Borgert products.

A fireplace is a practical and eye-catching addition to any patio or outdoor space. In addition to the visual impact, an outdoor fireplace will provide warmth, effectively extending the life of your patio during the cooler spring and fall months.

As an exclusive dealer of King of Hearths fireplaces and ovens, Borgert Products offers an outdoor fireplace unit that is constructed from lightweight concrete. It is fully lined with fire brick for maximum safety. Our fireplaces are engineered for mortarless veneering, and are exceptionally strong, ensuring that they will withstand weather and remain in peak condition for many years.

Here are a few tips on outdoor fireplace installation. For a detailed step-by-step installation guide, visit our Borgert Resource Guide.

Pad

You will need to remove all plant matter and topsoil from under the slab or hearth. Replace that organic material with gravel which must be compacted for support. If a pad is required (which will depend on fireplace size and positioning), ensure it’s at least six inches deep, with other measurements customized to the type and size of the fireplace unit. Install a rebar mat in a checkerboard pattern with 12-inch centers. Cure the pad for seven days before placing the fireplace.

Conditioning

Once the fireplace is placed per specific installation instructions, it is recommended to build a few small fireplaces before the facing is applied. This will temper the unit, helping to bring the materials to a near final rest before the facing is applied.

Safety

There should be no combustible materials placed within four feet of the fireplace opening. This includes trees and plants, wood decking and furniture. The fireplace stack is equipped for a chimney cap – ensure that the cap has a spark arrestor. Only burn wood; never garbage or other materials. Make sure the burning area is completely dry before starting a fire.

Get the most out of our short Midwest summers with a Borgert Products outdoor fireplace. Contact us to get started.

Borgert is a Minnesota-based, family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Get a quote today on your Borgert products.

Many think of pavers and pavement products as designed only for patios, walkways and steps. But that’s far from the case. There are several lesser-known applications for Borgert pavements in private and commercial spaces. And by using our versatile, durable products, you can create a space that is unique in appearance and easy to maintain. We’ll discuss a few practical applications for Borgert pavements below, and make sure to visit our project galleries for more ideas and inspiration!

Streets

If you’re in a cold climate, you know that spring means potholes. The many freeze-thaw cycles that occur throughout the winter weaken asphalt and cause holes to form. This is not the case when streets are surfaced using pavers. Borgert pavements are flexible to withstand freeze-thaw cycles, and any pavers that do crack or break can be replaced quickly, easily and affordably.

In addition to the practical benefits, there are aesthetic advantages as well. Create a unique, beautiful space, using pavers instead of paint to delineate lines and spaces. The options are endless!

Public Spaces

Using pavers in public spaces allows for the creation of unique spaces that can be customized to fit a business or community. Apply pavers in patterns to create a one-of-a-kind design. Our pavements are made to meet the high standards of architects and designers, creating durable and enduring public spaces.

Plazas and Entryways

Create a memorable first impression and elevate the visitor experience with a unique and easily-identifiable entryway or plaza. Our wide selection allows you to complement existing styles with matching colors and designs.

Universities

Use different colors and textures to create unity, consistency and visual appeal throughout campus, increasing aesthetic value while lowering maintenance costs. Pavers can be used to delineate spaces or create designs, creating distinction among departments while maintaining unity.

Ready to discuss pavement options for your commercial project? Give us a call.

Borgert is a family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. We are based in Minneapolis and serve the entire Twin Cities metro area and beyond. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Get a quote today on your Borgert products.

Permeable interlocking concrete pavement is a great stormwater management solution but it must be maintained to ensure proper drainage to get the longest life out of your pavement. The tips below will also ensure that your pavement is able to properly drain rainfall and snow.

Preventative Maintenance:

Joint Material: Keep the joints filled with the proper material, check and refill every 6 months. The fill should reach the top of the chamfer.

Surrounding Vegetation and Planting: Ensure that the adjacent landscaping is strong, prevents erosion of soils onto the pavers, and does not contribute to clogging from falling leaves or fruits. Promptly remove grass clippings.

Awareness: Ensure anyone working near the site is aware of the system and does not place landscaping materials on the system or close enough to cause future runoff and no snow is piled throughout the winter. Do not allow sanding during the winter.

Lack of maintenance will cause the system to clog, defeating the purpose of using permeable pavement. Clogging will also cause deterioration of the paver as it will sit in a constant state of saturation.

Winter Maintenance:

Snow Removal: Shovel or plow as immediately as possible following a snowfall. Do not pile on permeable surface.

Salt/Deicing Chemicals: Do not use sand. The best option is to use the joint material for grit.

Salt: When the system is clean and snow is removed promptly, far less salt/deicing chemicals should be used. Use proper judgment to gauge the amount of ice. There will most likely be little ice accumulation on the surface.

Maintenance Plan:

• Inspect the area directly following a rain event to check for standing water (after a major event & at least 3 times a year)
• Use small-scale techniques to address small areas of clogging
• Maintain the correct level of joint material
• General preventative maintenance to reduce the need for major restorative techniques
• Regenerative Air Vacuum: when major clogging occurs. Recommended 1 – 2 times a year for commercial applications and once every 1-5 years for residential applications, vacuuming frequency depends on usage.

How to Tell if Your Pavers are Clogged:

• Standing water during or directly following a minor storm event
• Visible debris in the joints
• Water running off or pooling in large areas
• Weed growth

If your pavement is clogged, you can use an air vacuum to remove the top layer of debris and joint material. You can then re-fill the joints and your pavement will infiltrate as normal. If you need assistance, please contact us or icpi.org for more details on maintenance.

Borgert is a family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. We are based in Central Minnesota and serve the Midwest including MN, WI, ND, IA, SD, Northern IL, MT, CO, NE. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Find your local Borgert distributor.

Are you searching for that perfect patio look but just haven’t found it quite yet? Take a stroll through some of our favorite looks featuring our Cobble Series™ Pavers for some patio inspiration.

Enchanting Garden

This look isn’t for the fainthearted. If you really want to cultivate a calming, serene space we recommend pairing our Cobble Series™ Pavers with ambitious landscaping. We love how the circular pavers add harmony and balance to the rounded ponds.

Folksy Fireplace

Pairing natural elements with concrete is the perfect way to create a folksy, enchanting look. We love the combination of our Cobble Series™ Pavers with a fireplace and vines draping around a patio wall.

Follow the Brick Road

Follow the brick road (Cobble Series™ Pavers) to an oasis in your own backyard! It will feel like you are in a place “somewhere over the rainbow” with surrounding waterfalls and magical landscaping!

All Day Fun

Experience the outdoors all day. Enjoy brunch on the patio and then go play a game of backyard football for a fun family afternoon!

Seeing Double

This swirly look is captivating and deceptively simple to install. Two circular patterns using our Cobble Series™ Pavers is better than one! These areas are easy to make your own – try adding a wall (as seen above) or some chairs for a nice gathering spot.

Inspired by any of the looks you see here? Let’s chat. 

Borgert is a family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. We are based in Central Minnesota and serve the Midwest including MN, WI, ND, IA, SD, Northern IL, MT, CO, NE. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Find your local Borgert distributor.

Now that summer’s in full swing, it’s the perfect time for one of our personal favorite summer activities: hanging by the fire pit. Now’s the perfect time to upgrade your patio with a brand new fire pit or fireplace. Here are some of our favorite looks to inspire you.

Radial Fire Pit

This classic look is well-rounded (no pun intended). Shake up a simple fire pit by adding a radial pattern with cobble pavers. Placing it in the center of your patio leaves plenty of room for entertaining.

Products featured in this look: Cobble Series™, Cobble Circle and Strassen® Wall Fire Pit by Borgert Products

Here Comes the Sun

Make a gorgeous fireplace even more stunning with a custom detail – we love this simple sunflower to brighten up any patio.

Products featured in this look: King Arthur by King of Hearths with Strassen® and Madera Walls by Borgert Products 

All-in-one Entertainment

Now this is a true home entertainment system! This gorgeous fireplace features convenient storage and an attached TV. This setup is a must-have for sports fans to grill out while watching the big game.

Products featured in this look: Guinever Fireplace by King of Hearths with Strassen® Wall Veneer by Borgert Products

Cook It Up

If you love to cook, this is the perfect setup for you! This fireplace features an attached grill for easy grilling and cooking. The brick oven is perfect for making delicious pizzas and other tasty treats.

Products featured in this look: Lancelot Oven by King of Hearths with Strassen® Wall Veneer by Borgert Products

Special Space

If you’ve got the room, set your fire pit apart from the rest of your patio with a designated space. We love pairing our Cobble Series™  with a wall unit for a designated fire pit space.

Products featured in this look: Cobble Series™ and Cobble Circle by Borgert Products

Inspired by any of the looks you see here? Let’s chat. 

Borgert is a family-owned company specializing in pavers, patios, driveways and retaining walls. We are based in Minneapolis and serve the entire Twin Cities metro area and beyond. Since 1923, we have been committed to providing high quality products that help our customers dream landscapes become a reality. Find a distrubor of Borgert Products near you.