Hardscape Pricing Guide For Tennessee Homeowners
The first thing most homeowners ask us is, “What should I expect to spend on hardscaping?” We get it. Whether you’re thinking about a new paver patio, a retaining wall, an outdoor fire pit, or even a full backyard makeover, knowing the costs upfront makes the planning process a whole lot easier.
No two yards are the same. The size of the project, the materials you like, the slope of your property, and the overall design all play a part in the final price. That’s why we put together this pricing guide. On top of that, we’ve built a few tools to make things even clearer. Our paver patio cost calculator gives you a quick estimate, our landscape pricing guide covers general landscaping projects, and our landscape ROI calculator helps you see how much value new landscaping can add to your home.
At Property Docktors, we’ve built our reputation on being upfront and honest with our neighbors. We’re a BBB A+ Accredited Business, members of the Loudon County Chamber of Commerce, and proud to be voted #1 Landscaper in Lenoir City two years running by the BBB. Families in Lenoir City, Loudon County, Knoxville, Farragut, Tellico Village, Kahite, Kingston, and Rarity Bay know they can count on us for quality work and straightforward advice.
Entry-Level Hardscaping ($5,000 - $10,000)
If you’re looking to make small but noticeable improvements to your outdoor space, this budget range works well for curb appeal upgrades or minor functional additions.
With this investment, you can usually add features such as:
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- Paver or block curbing to outline garden beds or walkways
- Small garden walls for raised planters or decorative accents
- Short runs of steps or stairs to improve access on gentle slopes
- Paver or stone walkways leading to an entrance or garden area
- Simple front entrance upgrades, like a set of steps or a small landing
This range is a good fit for homeowners who want to add a few hardscape features that make a difference without taking on a full backyard renovation.
Mid-Range Hardscaping ($10,000 - $20,000)
If your goal is to expand your outdoor living space, this budget range opens the door to meaningful upgrades that improve both the look and function of your property.
With an investment of $10,000 to $20,000, you can usually take on projects like:
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- Paver or stone steps and stairs – a great solution for sloped yards with noticeable elevation changes.
- Retaining walls up to three feet high – blending curb appeal with practical erosion control.
- Medium-sized paver patios – perfect for a seating or dining area where family and friends can gather.
- Corner retaining walls – used to frame planting beds or define outdoor spaces.
- Fire pits – whether gas or wood-burning, they create a natural centerpiece for backyard entertaining.
- Outdoor lighting – adding safety along pathways and highlighting key landscape features.
This price range works well for homeowners who want a well-defined, usable outdoor space without getting into large-scale structural construction.
Big Outdoor Living Spaces ($20k - $40k)
For homeowners ready to take their backyard to the next level, this price range opens the door to larger projects that combine style, comfort, and everyday usability.
With an investment of $20,000 to $40,000, you can look at projects such as:
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- Paver driveways that instantly boost curb appeal and long-term property value
- Terraced retaining walls to create usable levels on sloped yards
- Multi-zone paver patios with dedicated areas for dining, lounging, or entertaining
- Seating walls that provide built-in, low-maintenance gathering spots
- Expanded paver pool decks for a polished, slip-resistant poolside finish
- Upgraded fire pits with seating walls that make outdoor entertaining even better
This range is perfect for homeowners who want more than just individual upgrades—it’s for those looking to build a cohesive outdoor living area that ties everything together.
Luxury Outdoor Living ($40,000 - $80,000)
For homeowners who want more than just a backyard upgrade, this budget range makes it possible to create a truly customized outdoor retreat. With $40,000 to $80,000 to invest, you can bring high-end materials, detailed designs, and premium features into your space.
Projects in this range often include:
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- Expansive paver patios with multiple zones for dining, cooking, and lounging
- High-end outdoor kitchens complete with built-in grills, countertops, and seating areas
- Pavilions or custom pergolas that add shade, comfort, and architectural interest
- Outdoor fireplaces or premium fire pits that serve as stunning focal points
- Full outdoor lighting systems with smart controls and layered illumination
This level of investment is ideal for homeowners who want a fully functional, resort-style outdoor living space, perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying everyday life at home.
Luxury Paver Driveways
If you want a driveway that makes a statement, a luxury paver driveway built with permeable pavers is the way to go. In the $40,000 to $80,000 range, you can create a custom design that blends durability, beauty, and sustainability.
This investment allows for features like:
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- Expansive, custom-designed driveways with intricate patterns and borders
- Permeable pavers that handle heavy use while managing stormwater naturally
- Built-in drainage solutions and optional heating for year-round convenience
- Accent lighting and matching walkways to tie the whole entrance together
This range is ideal for homeowners who want a show-stopping driveway that not only boosts curb appeal but also delivers long-term performance and environmental benefits.
What Affects the Cost of Hardscaping?
Hardscape pricing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here in Tennessee, factors like soil conditions, elevation changes, and material choices all play a role in shaping your final cost. Understanding these variables will help you set a budget that matches your vision.
1. Material selection
The biggest driver of cost is the material you choose. Concrete pavers are reliable and budget-friendly, while natural stone or premium finishes add timeless beauty and durability. Upgrading to high-end pavers or custom patterns increases cost but creates a more distinctive look.
2. Site conditions & preparation
Our region has a mix of clay-heavy soils and rolling terrain, which can affect how much prep work is needed. Excavation, grading, and drainage solutions all add to the project cost. Sloped properties, in particular, often require retaining walls, steps, or additional engineering to ensure stability.
3. Project size & complexity
A simple walkway or small patio is less expensive than a larger hardscape with multiple zones. Features like built-in seating, multi-level designs, or integrated lighting increase both labor and material needs.
4. Add-on features
Extras like fire pits, water features, or advanced lighting systems bring more functionality and curb appeal. While they raise the initial cost, they also boost long-term enjoyment and can increase your property value.
Why hardscape prices vary between contractors
When you start comparing bids, it’s common to wonder why one contractor is higher or lower than another for what seems like the same type of project. The truth is, pavers, stone, lighting, and other materials cost about the same no matter who installs them. The differences come down to labor, expertise, design quality, preparation, and how the project is managed.
Why some contractors come in lower
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- Less skilled crews – Lower bids often rely on untrained or inexperienced labor. That can mean uneven pavers, failing retaining walls, or drainage problems that cost more to fix later.
- Little or no design work – A cheaper bid may not include detailed planning. At Property Docktors, we create custom layouts—and when needed, 3D renderings—so you can see exactly what your investment will look like.
- Cut corners on base prep – The foundation is the most important part of any hardscape. Skipping proper excavation depth, base compaction, or drainage solutions might save money upfront but can cause sinking patios, shifting walls, or water problems down the road.
- No warranty or support – Many low-cost contractors don’t stand behind their work. We back our projects with a workmanship warranty so you’re covered.
- Business stability – Some “budget” contractors aren’t licensed, insured, or established. If problems arise, they may be gone before you can call them back.
If a quote sounds too good to be true, it usually is. The initial savings often lead to bigger repair bills or even a full redo later.
Why some contractors charge more
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- Higher overhead – Large companies with offices, sales teams, and heavy advertising often pass those costs along, whether or not the work is better.
- Premium or imported materials – Specialty stone or custom finishes can drive up prices. We use trusted, durable materials without unnecessary markups.
- Complex designs – Intricate inlays, multi-level patios, and detailed builds require more skill and labor. Higher bids can be valid—just ask what sets their design apart.
- Excessive markups – Some companies simply charge more because they can. Always request a breakdown so you know what you’re paying for.
At Property Docktors, we aim to stay competitive while delivering skilled installation, honest pricing, and long-term value. We want you to feel confident that your investment is built to last.
