Backyard Patio Expansion Project with Unilock Hollandstone in Schaumburg

A larger patio was the main goal on this outdoor living and hardscape project. But before the first paver could be installed, the groundwork had to be completed properly to ensure the patio would perform well for years to come.

This patio expansion project focused not only on increasing the usable outdoor space, but also on rebuilding the foundation underneath the patio with proper excavation, drainage improvements, and base preparation.

Patio Expansion & Hardscape Improvements Included

• Removal of the existing patio area
• Full excavation for proper patio base depth
• Extension of downspouts away from the future patio space
• Installation of a substantial compacted stone foundation
• Base compaction completed in controlled lifts for long-term stability
• Drainage improvements to protect the patio foundation
• Installation of new Unilock Hollandstone pavers
• Expansion of the backyard outdoor living area
• Final grading and patio finishing work

Professional Patio Foundation & Base Preparation

Projects like this are a reminder that long-term patio performance starts long before the pavers arrive.

The patio surface gets the attention, but the foundation underneath carries the load. Proper drainage protects the investment, and every layer beneath the patio has to work together correctly.

Key parts of the installation included:

• Proper excavation depth
• Controlled aggregate installation
• Layered compaction methods
• Drainage and downspout improvements
• Stable patio foundation preparation
• Accurate paver installation and finishing

Without proper preparation underneath, even the best pavers can eventually experience settling, movement, or drainage problems over time.

Drainage Improvements & Downspout Extensions

An important part of this project involved improving water management around the new patio space. Existing downspouts were extended away from the patio area to help move water away from the foundation and reduce excess moisture near the hardscape installation.

Proper drainage planning helps protect both the patio and the surrounding property while improving the long-term performance of the installation.

Backyard Patio Transformation

As you go through the project photos, you will see:

• The original patio removal
• Excavation and grading work
• Stone base installation and compaction
• Downspout drainage extensions
• Unilock Hollandstone paver installation
• The final expanded patio once the project came together

The finished result is more than simply a larger patio.

The property now has:

• A larger outdoor living space
• Improved patio functionality
• Better drainage management
• A stronger patio foundation
• More usable backyard entertaining space
• A hardscape installation designed for long-term performance

Why Proper Patio Construction Matters

Many patio issues begin underneath the surface. Poor excavation depth, inadequate compaction, and drainage problems can lead to settling, shifting pavers, and reduced patio lifespan over time.

Projects like this succeed because every component — from excavation and drainage to base preparation and final paver installation — is designed to function together as one complete hardscape system.

If you have been thinking about expanding your patio, rebuilding an aging hardscape area, or creating more usable outdoor living space, now is a great time to start planning improvements before the season fills up.

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Tommy Pollina Landscape Company – serving Chicagoland since 1982.