Hardscaping your landscape - part 1

CCP - produces and distributes block only - they do not provide installation nor do they create alternatives for your landscape. Brad commented that if you have a project, it's best to use a landscape architect who knows the principals of engineering in order to achieve the best result. They don't like to make recommendations as to who to use to build your project as it makes them a liability if a customer is not happy with the outcome. He has given advice on some projects in the past however. Every type of brick, block or paver they manufacture is done within a 500 mile radius of Topeka at various locations for the different product. This insures a more timely delivery of your product of choice.

Brad brought several catalogs to share with the group which highlighted all the different types of product they carry and their uses. Many of the product presented mimic natural stone very well. Some are available in stock and some are special order. They try to carry products that have the look, texture, color and feel of the native stone (like limestone) here in Kansas.
Belgard - this company has a number of products ranging from pre-cast outdoor fireplaces to permeable pavers which are used in landscapes to prevent rain run-off and can be used in conjunction with a rain-catching system like we discussed with Kip in our last meeting.

UniLock produces a wet-cast paver which can be produced in many colors and textures to mimic natural limestone.
Brad shared a lot of information and CCP carries everything from a standard brick to large man-made stones with dimensions as large as 2' x 4' x 2'. They also carry everything you need for your hardscape, for instance: Edge Restraint & Tools, Stabilization Fabric, Adhesives, Fire-Pit Kits and Polymeric Sand. Polymeric sand is used between pavers on a sidewalk or driveway and Bob Saathoff said every garage should have a bag of it handy. It is a dry sand-like material that you put between rock or stone....once you have it in place, you wet it down and it seals like concrete to prevent weeds and ants from permeating the area. It stays somewhat pliable to accommodate for shifting, however, it adheres to the block to alleviate gaps.