Yard Myths Busted
We hear a lot of “rules” when it comes to outdoor spaces — but not all of them are true. Here are a few myths we hear all the time… and what’s really going on behind the scenes.
Myth #1: Sealing your patio makes it maintenance free.
A good sealer helps protect your patio from stains, fading, and the elements, but it’s not a magic shield. You’ll still need occasional cleaning, joint sand touch-ups, and resealing every few years depending on the wear. Think of sealing as sunscreen for your patio, not armor.
Myth #2: All retaining walls are the same.
Definitely not. The beauty of a wall might be in the design, but its strength is in what you don’t see, the proper base, drainage, and engineering. A wall that looks good but isn’t built right can start to lean or fail in just a few seasons. That’s why professional installation matters.
Myth #3: Pavers will shift no matter what.
When installed correctly on a compacted base with edge restraint and polymeric sand, pavers stay locked in place for decades. If they move, it’s usually a sign the foundation wasn’t prepared right, not that pavers are “just like that.
Myth #4: You need a huge yard to have an outdoor living space.
Even small spaces can be transformed with the right design. Whether it’s a cozy fire pit area or a compact outdoor kitchen, it’s all about how you use the space, not how big it is.
Outdoor Lighting: Security Meets Beauty
When most people think of outdoor lighting, they picture accent lights showing off a patio or highlighting a favorite tree. But the right lighting system does more than make your yard look good, it makes your property safer, more functional, and more welcoming all year long.
Safety you can see. Well-lit walkways, steps, and driveways help prevent trips and falls, keeping your family and guests safe. Motion-sensor or pathway lights can also deter unwanted visitors without the harsh glare of floodlights.
Subtle security. A thoughtfully designed lighting system brightens shadowy corners, doorways, and backyard entrances — adding peace of mind without sacrificing style.
Beauty after dark. Uplighting trees, accenting a retaining wall, or casting a glow around your patio instantly transforms your outdoor space into a warm, inviting retreat. With lighting, your yard doesn’t close when the sun goes down.
Year-round impact. In Illinois, lighting adds charm to snowy winter nights, extends summer evenings outdoors, and boosts curb appeal during shorter fall and spring days. It’s a simple upgrade with lasting benefits.
Ready to see how lighting could change your outdoor space? Let us design a system that’s as functional as it is beautiful. As the sun sets on summer and crisp Fall nights seem to get darker earlier and earlier, now is the time to add this final enhancement to your home landscaping.
How Drainage Affects Your Hardscape, Protecting Your Investment from Water Damage
When you think of a beautiful patio, driveway, or walkway, chances are you’re picturing the finished surface — the pavers, stone, or concrete that everyone sees. But what really determines how long your hardscape will last isn’t just what’s on top… it’s what’s happening underneath
Drainage is one of the most important (and overlooked) parts of any outdoor project.
Without proper drainage, water can seep under your hardscape and cause big problems, such as:
Shifting & Settling – Uneven surfaces, trip hazards, and sunken areas.
Cracking – Freeze-thaw cycles expand trapped water, damaging pavers or stone.
Erosion – Washout of the base materials leads to costly repairs.
Mold & Staining – Standing water leaves unsightly marks and slick surfaces.
At Signature Landscape, we design every project with drainage in mind — whether that means grading the site correctly, installing drainage pipes, or building in permeable features that let water flow safely away.
✔️ The result? A hardscape that not only looks great but also lasts for decades.
If you’re planning a new patio, driveway, or outdoor living space, don’t just think about the look — think about the foundation. Protect your investment by making sure drainage is built right the first time.
