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Sanctuary School & Studio
Welcome to our School & Studio! Where you can Learn "how It's Done" and pick out options via our studio below within the sub service you have selected to view:
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School: Knowledge on how the sub-service is done.
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Studio: Options on all materials/colors for selected sub-service.
Landscaping & Softscaping
Concrete & Stone Steppers
What Are Steppers?
- Steppers are individual paving stones used to create pathways and walkways throughout your Orange County landscape. Typically made from durable materials like concrete or natural stone, steppers provide a safe and visually appealing way to navigate your yard. They can be arranged in various patterns and designs to complement your outdoor aesthetic, whether you prefer a formal look for your Newport Beach garden or a more natural feel for your Laguna Niguel yard. Sanctuary Design & Build expertly installs steppers throughout Orange County, creating functional and beautiful pathways that enhance your outdoor living spaces.
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School
Our official "How It's Done" section to help educate our clients to understand our industry leading installation process!​​
Course: How are steppers placed / installed?
Process - Concrete or Stone stepper installation
At Sanctuary Design & Build, a leading design-build firm in Orange County, we create beautiful and functional pathways using concrete and stone steppers. Discover our step-by-step guide on how we bring your walkway to life. Unless otherwise stated in your contract, all installations pertaining to concrete and/or stone steppers are performed in the exact outlined method! From design and layout to precise installation and finishing, we ensure your Orange County landscape features stunning and durable pathways. Our unique Sanctuary Sequence, a comprehensive site assessment and planning process, sets the stage for successful hardscaping projects throughout Orange County, including cities like Irvine, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach.
Phase 1: Pathway Design and Site Preparation for Orange County Homes
This initial phase focuses on designing the pathway and preparing the site for stepper installation in your Orange County landscape. As part of our Sanctuary Sequence, we’ve already collaborated with you in our Sanctuary Studio to determine the ideal path, materials, and overall aesthetic. This phase includes:
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Pathway Layout: We mark the pathway layout on the ground using stakes, string lines, or marking paint, ensuring the path flows naturally and complements the surrounding landscape.
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Excavation: We excavate the area along the marked pathway to the appropriate depth. This depth will depend on the thickness of the steppers and the desired base material (e.g., DG, compacted soil).
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Base Material Installation: We install and compact the base material (typically decomposed granite or compacted gravel) to create a stable and level foundation for the steppers. This is crucial for preventing settling and ensuring a long-lasting pathway in Orange County’s varied soil conditions.
Phase 2: Stepper Placement and Leveling for Orange County Landscapes
This phase involves the precise placement and leveling of the concrete or stone steppers within your Orange County landscape. This careful process includes:
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Stepper Placement: We carefully place each stepper along the prepared pathway, ensuring consistent spacing and a visually appealing pattern. We consider factors like stride length and the overall flow of the pathway.
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Leveling and Setting: We use a level to ensure each stepper is level and stable. We may add or remove base material beneath each stepper to achieve proper leveling and prevent rocking. We firmly set each stepper into the base material.
Phase 3: Infill Material Installation and Finishing for Orange County Properties
This final phase completes the stepper installation, adding the infill material and providing a polished finish to your Orange County pathway. This finishing process includes:​
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Edging (If Necessary): We may install edging along the sides of the pathway to contain the infill material and create a defined border.
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Cleanup: We thoroughly clean the pathway and surrounding area, removing any debris or excess materials, leaving a beautiful and functional finished walkway for your Orange County home.
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Infill Material Installation: We install the chosen infill material (decomposed granite, grass, pebbles, etc.) between the steppers. For grass, we ensure proper soil preparation and seed or sod installation. For DG or pebbles, we level and compact the material for a smooth, even surface.
Click Here to see our Softscaping infill options options to finalize the look of your new Steppers!
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Studio
Our Official Studio will guide you through all options we carry within the selected category to expertly guide you in your decision making process!
Studio Display: Our landscaping stepper options!