Materials Chosen for Performance, Not Trends

The materials used in a landscape project matter just as much as the workmanship behind them.

At Horvath Landscapes, we select materials based on durability, compatibility, and long-term performance—not short-term trends or supplier incentives. Every product we use must make sense for Ontario’s climate, your specific site conditions, and how the space will actually be used.

How We Choose Materials

Material selection is never one-size-fits-all. We consider:

Freeze–thaw performance
Drainage and soil conditions
Load requirements and traffic patterns
Maintenance expectations
Visual compatibility with the home

Our role is to explain the trade-offs clearly so you can make informed decisions—not to overwhelm you with options that do not add value.

Hardscape Materials

Interlocking Pavers & Slabs

We use high-quality concrete pavers and slabs designed to perform in freeze–thaw environments. Proper base preparation, edge restraint, and drainage are just as important as the pavers themselves, and we design systems accordingly.

Material choices are guided by:

Thickness and structural rating
Surface finish and slip resistance
Colour stability over time
Compatibility with surrounding elements

Natural Stone

When appropriate, we incorporate natural stone for steps, landings, accents, and walls. Stone is selected based on:

Strength and density
Suitability for exterior use
Proper detailing to manage water and movement

Natural stone requires careful handling and installation to perform well long-term, which is why it is used intentionally rather than indiscriminately.

Retaining Wall Systems

For retaining walls and grade changes, we use engineered wall systems designed for structural performance—not just appearance.

Wall selection is based on:

Height and load requirements
Drainage integration
Soil conditions
Longevity and repairability

Pool & Poolscape Materials

Fiberglass Pool Shells

Fiberglass pools are selected for consistency, longevity, and reduced long-term maintenance. We focus on proper base preparation, backfill methods, and integration with surrounding hardscape so the pool performs as intended.

Coping, Decking & Surrounds

Poolside materials are chosen for:

Slip resistance
Heat retention
Drainage behavior
Compatibility with pool structure

This ensures safety, comfort, and durability over time.

Outdoor Living & Structural Materials

Wood & Composite

Decks and structures are built using materials appropriate to exposure, load, and maintenance expectations. We explain the differences between:

Pressure-treated lumber
Cedar
Composite options

Each has advantages depending on the application and budget.

Fasteners & Structural Components

Fasteners, connectors, and framing materials are selected to prevent corrosion and structural failure—details that are often overlooked but critical to longevity.

Planting & Softscape Materials

Soil, Plants & Mulch

Healthy planting starts below grade. We pay attention to:

Soil quality and drainage
Proper plant selection for exposure and space
Long-term growth patterns and maintenance needs

Plants are chosen to thrive in their environment, not just to look good on installation day.

Lighting & Finishing Elements

Landscape lighting and finishing details are selected for:

Reliability and weather resistance
Thoughtful placement
Subtle integration into the landscape

Lighting is used to enhance spaces, improve safety, and extend usability—without overdoing it.

Materials and Transparency

We are clear about what materials are being used and why.

If there are alternatives worth considering—whether for performance, budget, or aesthetics—we explain the pros and cons openly. If a material is not appropriate for your site or goals, we will say so.

You can see how material selection fits into the larger project flow on our Our Process page.

Built to Last

Good materials do not compensate for poor installation—and good installation cannot save the wrong materials.

Our focus is always on the combination of proper design, appropriate materials, and correct construction methods so your project performs well for years, not just the first season.

Let’s Talk About Options

If you are planning a project and want help navigating material choices without pressure, we are happy to talk.

Visit the Contact page to book a consultation or ask a question.

Horvath Landscapes at a Glance

Horvath Landscapes Inc. designs and builds outdoor spaces for homeowners across Aurora and the GTA, with a focus on clean, modern, low-maintenance landscapes. Our team handles everything from the first concept sketch to the final walkthrough on site.

Horvath Landscapes has been serving homeowners in the Greater Toronto Area since 1976 and is proudly listed on Google and Houzz. We hold a 5-star Google rating, nine “Best of Houzz Design” awards since 2016, ICPI certification for interlock and paver installation, and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Key Services

Landscape design and 2D/3D planning
Interlock paving, porcelain tile patios, and concrete surfaces
Fiberglass and concrete swimming pools
Landscape lighting and planting design
Retaining walls, steps, porches, and front entrances
Decks, pergolas, cabanas, and other outdoor structures
Drainage correction, grading, and permit drawings / submission support for pools, fences, and other landscape work