Burien Decomposed granite patio
Homeowner’s Issue
Seattle’s rain and the slopes around Seahurst Park and Normandy Park make patios a challenge for many yards. Heavy winter rains, compacted glacial soils, moss, and runoff on slopes lead to puddles, weeds, and erosion that quickly degrade lawn-edge patios. Homeowners and landlords want a surface that drains well, reduces mud tracking, and stays usable through our long, wet seasons without constant repairs.
Decomposed granite (DG) handles these conditions if installed with the right prep: proper grading, a compacted base, edge restraints, and a consistent 3–4 inch DG finish. Sustainable practices like hand-weeding, mulch buffers, gravel drains, and native planting reduce maintenance and avoid chemical controls. A well-built DG patio balances firm footing with permeability, fitting smaller yards, rental properties, and gentle slopes where paving would be overkill. This guide helps you understand what to expect and how to keep a low-maintenance, long-lasting outdoor space using natural materials and methods that suit this coastal climate.
Our Quality Service
We build DG patios sized and graded to move water away from structures while fitting your yard’s slope and soil. Work focuses on durable base layers, clean edging, and compacted DG for firm, permeable surfaces that resist washout.
Benefits include improved safety on wet days, better curb appeal for tenants and buyers, and lower long-term upkeep. We use sustainable methods—no chemical herbicides—so plant beds and runoff stay healthy.
What’s Included
- Site clearing of grass, weeds, and debris.
- Excavation to appropriate depth (typically 3–4 inches of DG over compacted base).
- Installation of edge restraints to prevent spread.
- Base layer of crushed rock or gravel, compacted for drainage.
- Spreading, leveling, and compaction of decomposed granite.
- Final grading to direct water away from structures.
- Site cleanup and haul-away options.
Optional upgrades:
- Landscaping fabric + mulch under plant beds.
- Organic weed control and manual spot removal.
- Decorative gravel borders or paver accents.
- Haul-away versus green bin/yard waste disposal.
Before & After / Expectations
After installation, expect the surface to settle slightly; we compact to limit this, but occasional top-up may be needed after heavy winter months. For care:
- Water new DG lightly only to settle fines for the first week.
- Remove weeds by hand or with organic spot treatments; avoid herbicides.
- Rake lightly to redistribute material and check edges after storms.
- Watch for ivy regrowth near fences and remove roots to prevent undermining the DG.
FAQs
How long does installation take?
Most standard patios take 1–3 days, depending on size and site access. Custom features add time but are scheduled clearly up front.
Will DG wash away on slopes?
Proper base prep, edging, and compaction prevent most washout. We size drainage features and choose edge restraints to match slope conditions.
Can I plant near a DG patio?
Yes. Use a mulch buffer and native, moisture-tolerant plants; this reduces runoff and maintenance while improving screening and curb appeal.
What maintenance is required?
Seasonal raking, hand-weeding, and occasional top-up of DG keeps the surface firm and neat. Avoid power-washing that displaces fines.
Do you use chemicals?
We use sustainable, non-chemical practices only—manual weeding, mulches, and organic controls when needed.
Call to Action
If you manage a rental or own a home and want a practical, sustainable patio that stands up to local rain and slopes, book a free estimate. We schedule quickly, work cleanly, and focus on dependable results tailored to your property and soil type.
Email neatandtidyseattle@gmail.com to set up a visit and get a no-cost quote.
