Restoring a Failing Patio, Retaining Wall, and Landscape in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
What began as a simple front walkway repair quickly evolved into a complete outdoor restoration project for a homeowner in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. During our initial inspection, it became clear that several underlying issues were contributing to the property’s deteriorating hardscape, including settling pavers, drainage problems, and a failing retaining wall.
Rather than simply addressing the visible symptoms, we worked with the homeowner to identify and correct the root causes, ensuring the repairs would provide lasting results.
The Challenge
The project originally started with concerns about an uneven front walkway. Over time, the pavers had developed noticeable dips and settlement issues, creating both aesthetic and functional problems.
As we evaluated the rest of the property, we discovered additional concerns:
- A failing retaining wall behind the home
- Poor drainage conditions
- Inadequate wall backfill materials
- Settlement and movement within the upper patio
- Overgrown landscaping that detracted from the home’s appearance
While many contractors may have simply repaired the patio surface, we explained to the homeowner that the retaining wall was the primary source of the problem. Without addressing the wall failure, future patio repairs would likely be short-lived.
Our Solution
Front Walkway Restoration
The front entrance received a complete paver restoration.
We carefully removed the existing pavers and rebuilt the base using an open-graded 6A aggregate foundation. New limestone screenings and polymeric sand were installed to create a durable, permeable system designed to improve drainage and reduce future settlement.
The result is a smoother, safer, and more attractive walkway that complements the architecture of the home.
Landscape Enhancement
To refresh the property’s curb appeal, we completed extensive landscape maintenance throughout the front yard.
Work included:
- Trimming and shaping mature boxwoods
- Defining landscape bed edges
- Refreshing mulch beds
- Cleaning and enhancing existing landscape features
- Preserving and incorporating natural boulders and outcropping elements
The refined landscaping creates a cleaner appearance while maintaining the mature character of the property.
Retaining Wall Reconstruction
The retaining wall was the most critical component of the project.
After dismantling the failing structure, we rebuilt the wall from the ground up using proper construction methods, including:
- Excavating and rebuilding the wall foundation
- Installing proper drainage behind the wall
- Replacing inadequate backfill materials
- Reconstructing and restacking the existing wall system
By correcting the drainage and structural deficiencies, the new wall now provides long-term support for the upper patio and surrounding landscape.
Upper Patio Repair
Once the retaining wall was stabilized, we turned our attention to the upper patio.
The patio had experienced significant settlement, particularly along one edge where portions of the surface had begun to sink.
Our team:
- Removed and reset the existing brick pavers
- Reconstructed the affected base areas
- Reinstalled railings and site features
- Replaced damaged pavers with matching materials
- Added decorative limestone accents throughout the landscape beds
The restored patio now provides a level, functional outdoor living space while maintaining the original character of the home.
Attention to Detail
One aspect of the project the homeowner particularly appreciated was our effort to reuse materials wherever possible.
Broken limestone pieces from the demolition process were incorporated into the landscape design as decorative accents, creating a more natural and cohesive appearance while reducing waste.
These small details often make the biggest difference in the finished product.
The Final Result
By addressing both the visible damage and the underlying causes, we transformed a collection of failing outdoor features into a cohesive, functional, and attractive landscape.
The completed project included:
- Front paver walkway restoration
- Retaining wall reconstruction
- Upper patio repair and leveling
- Landscape bed enhancements
- Shrub pruning and maintenance
- Mulch installation
- Complimentary lawn seed and straw restoration
Most importantly, the homeowner now has confidence that the drainage, structural support, and hardscape systems have been repaired correctly and are built to last.
Need Patio or Retaining Wall Repairs?
If your patio is sinking, your retaining wall is leaning, or you’re noticing drainage issues around your property, the visible problem is often only part of the story.
At Odd Jobs Landscaping & Pavers, we focus on identifying and correcting the root cause so your investment performs properly for years to come.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your project.