The Approach
Natural stone patios, retaining walls, steps, and entrances built with meticulous craftsmanship. Every course of stone is placed by hand on foundations engineered for 70+ annual freeze-thaw cycles.
Toronto experiences over 70 freeze-thaw cycles per year. Water seeps into joints, freezes, expands, and destroys everything in its path. We excavate to a minimum of 12 inches below finished grade. We compact base material in 2-inch lifts.
Why Cavemen?
Most contractors excavate 6-8 inches and compact in one lift. Our 12-inch excavation and 2-inch compaction lifts cost more upfront but prevent settling, cracking, and heaving that typically appears within 3-5 years with lesser methods.
What's Included
Natural Flagstone Patios
Hand-selected stone in random patterns, with each piece chosen for colour consistency and fit on a 9-inch compacted base.
Retaining Walls
Dry-laid and mortared walls using natural stone and manufactured block, engineered for drainage and frost resistance.
Custom Stone Steps & Entrances
Sandstone, limestone, and granite steps with precision-cut nosing, set on reinforced foundations.
Interlock Paving Systems
Geometric modern designs using premium manufactured pavers with proper edge restraint and joint treatment.
Common Questions
How deep do you excavate for a patio?
Minimum 12 inches below finished grade, compacted in 2-inch lifts. This exceeds industry standard and prevents frost heaving.
What stone do you recommend for Toronto?
We primarily use Canadian and Muskoka flagstone, Owen Sound limestone, and imported sandstone -- all proven for our climate.
How long will a stone patio last?
With proper base preparation, natural stone patios last 50+ years. The stone itself is permanent -- it's the base that determines longevity.
Related Services
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