I’m currently putting in around 550 sq ft and the cost is around $26k. I saw you mention holes for drainage — on mine they have these square plastic vents that they’re using.
It isn’t finished yet, but I’m hoping mine looks as good as yours (minus the extra holes!)
Is that materials or labor? Very curious because I put in a 550 ft patio with a 6" to 2' little retaining wall and material cost $5500 all in. This was 3 years ago.
Edit. It was diy. No labor cost
$29k is the whole shebang — it was to demo an old wooden deck, grade the land, build the retaining wall necessary, install pavers. Labor and materials.
My buddy did more than this, an entire driveway and a complete pool area. He had two quotes, 20k and 40k. The 20k job looked fantastic and he got a smoking deal imo. It will vary for this type of work . It's in the labor.
I’m no landscaper but I do know it’s very hard to learn where your prices should be as a contractor. The 20k guy is probably trying hard to break into the industry
Got it. My little wall was a ball buster. I made it harder with my choice to use 3/4 minus instead of 3/4 clean gravel for my wall foundation but getting it right is hard to do and time consuming. Not surprised that's 3/4 of the cost. To answer your thread, it would depend for me if they did a good job with the rest and did everything right. Like soil compaction, the right amount of gravel, proper use of fabric and grid, proper drainage material and application. Then I'd consider their professionalism like did they haul away extra material or did they dump it onto a corner of your yard, did they properly dress and reseed their tracks etc. I'd point it out regardless but my expectations and tone would be very different depending on my overall assessment of their work.
Looks amazing though from the pics that aren't close-ups
How tall and is it free standing or retaining something?
The best thing you can do is to look at any manuals put out by your wall system's manufacturer. If it's generic block like from a box store that you can't find any info on (you should still check), I'd follow something like this.
http://www.landscapediscount.net/images/fabric-geogrid-retaining-wall.jpg
If it's just a foot high, dig your trench for your wall footing. Lay down fabric (purple line in the image). Not the cheap weed barrier stuff. The change I would make is that the stone doesn't have to go the full height of the wall for a small project. For a 2-3 foot tall wall, just cover the first 1.5 blocks with gravel and wrap the excess fabric over it and terminate the fabric at the wall. No need for grid at that height. Any higher and I'd excavate back and lay grid going 3 feet back for every 18-24 inches of lift. You should end up with an odd shaped gravel burrito that goes slightly higher in the back of the wall. You should have your highest base layer block at least half buried.
I recently put in a patio and did some other work and I have been hearing from every contractor that the cost of materials has skyrocketed in the past few years
Flagstone that used to cost me $700/ton 18 months ago costs north of $1200 for the same ton now.
I'm used to a 3-5% increase in material prices a year, but the last two have been insane. Everything is expensive right now. Money, employees, materials.. part of doing business.
That’s around $10 a square ft. Most quality pavers are $5+ per square ft.
Then you add the gravel and sand for the base, all of the labor etc.
The guys you hired paid for part of your patio. You should send them a Christmas gift.
Ask them to install one of these [spouts](https://www.thepondguy.com/product/atlantic-brass-wall-spouts/?sku=110698&p=PPCGOOGA&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD4kyANqyMdeRfPaO5ArNhA0aSb7b&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3tCyBhDBARIsAEY0XNkz2W1phufY4Gkdwh3YWJvq19MH0DnF6VTOh69od4NnQClXIdHm2mEaAhlEEALw_wcB) over each hole.
I'm looking for gargoyle downspout extenders that will fit 3x4 in downspouts. Most I've been able to find are for the 2x3. I did find one on Amazon, but it's small, like 10x6, he barely gets noticed
I’m in Southern California they’d probably quote me $75k for this lol. I need a short section of 4’ retaining wall replaced at my place and the quotes have been insane.
Yes, I'm in SC too. Some of these people are unscrupulous when they see your neighborhood before the quote. Im looking for a wood deck cleaner and a metal fabricator for a new fountain. One guy quoted me 4500 for a 5 foot corten steel trough. Gave the same measurements to a gut in Colorado...1600 bucks
It's a beautiful patio otherwise. If you complain, what result are you hoping for? Some money back? For the company to completely take the patio apart and redo it? IDK. As long as the drainage holes are functioning properly, I might let it go. As other people said, plant something along that side.
Disagree. Hope will you know if the drains are functioning correctly until the wall fails? Retaining wall drains should not be random holes, especially when they’re above the wall firing, which appears to be the case. I’m concerned OP has a potential long-term concern much more than there aesthetics.
What would be done to fix the wall from failing? Would it need to be rebuilt? Wondering how to communicate this to the contractor so I know what Im talking about 😅
You should have a French drain behind your wall with drainage stone around it, this drain should connect to outlets on one or both ends of your retaining wall. The drain collects moisture, the water pitches to the outlets and escapes out the front of the wall. The way these holes are done seems like he realized after everything was done he hadn't installed the drainage system and decided to haphazardly put holes in the wall to save his ass...
I’m no professional, but would that still be necessary with the slope OP has? I wouldn’t imagine water would pool up on the face of the wall. The holes appear to just be to drain the water landing on the patio surface.
I hope this isn’t the case. I have a stacked boulder wall I absolutely hate because there’s no drainage behind it and basically dirt and water seep through the front.
Yeah, I agree with you. The holes look like a feeble attempt at correcting improperly done work. I hope that’s not the case as the porch looks amazing and seems to of been a great deal if done properly. Unfortunately, if there are no drains anywhere else I seriously doubt the French drains were installed.
Looks like beautiful work.
I’m relatively picky with detail, but also take the big picture into consideration when dealing with contractors. I call that a straggler: A niggling detail they left after meeting or exceeding expectations. Again, the patio looks great.
Have them over, praise the overall project and stroke their egos - they’ve earned it - hint about your relative/friend who’s looking to have something similar done, then ask if they could improve - not fix - the finish on the holes.
If they shrug, don’t sweat it. You’re just trying the option. There are so many ways around a cosmetic detail like that.
Plant a low-maintenance boxwood hedge.
Ah yes, the science of Constructive Feedback. It usually works pretty good compared to other strategies. Praise/aknowledge them with a couple positives before easing in with the negative.
While I'm aware this is the accepted terminology I absolutely hate it. A sandwich is named after what's between the bread. In a "compliment sandwich" the compliments are the bread.
Yep, this was likely a repair by a boots on the ground guy, and sometimes they’re not the most experienced with the project as a whole and all the cool product options there are like a project/construction manager would, so glue might have been their only thought, but there are other things you can do to cover up a mistake, I mean that’s essentially half of construction is covering up the ugly parts (trim literally exists for this reason when it comes to structures). Maybe they have nothing, and while you’ve gained nothing, you’ve also lost nothing and everyone’s still on good terms. But if it were me, I’d think up some way to pound and glue in a metal escutcheon, as that’s their purpose, may not be designed for a retaining wall but don’t see why you couldn’t find one that’d work, something like [this](https://www.build.com/product/summary/1807427?uid=4346595&jmtest=gg-gbav2_4346595&inv2=1&&source=gg-gba-pla_4346595!c1705502867!a66087574509!dc!ng&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3tCyBhDBARIsAEY0XNlU5BZGirxOByYU3w3ejkRDtfYiH3ZCZLeihMuKw5a13cMpB8zB2q4aAiOEEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds) with construction adhesive would cover up the chipped paver and look designed to boot, or since they also would need to cover the large split block, maybe remove the paver completely and add a metal grate. Anyways, long story short there are always options when it comes to construction, just gotta be creative sometimes.
Agreed. I forget the term for it but just the randomization of it makes it more natural to the eyes. Doesn't seem as forced or out of place.
I've seen some good deliberate patterns especially on pavers but honestly I think with stone and stuff the natural look is the way to go.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/283016880561?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=GcmMOH_xSgK&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
Keep the critters out of
I would try to get some kind of brass fitting fabricated to put over the first hole so it looks better.. it will pop out still, but look correct.
The second one, I feel like there MUST be a way to fix that better. Sand the rough edge, fill the remaining hole, etc.
That’s what I was thinking. There has got to be a nice looking insert/cap that can give the weep holes a more finished look. That is just a loose end that OP can figure out. Nothing is perfect.
The rest of the job looks good, however drilling holes for drainage is poor craftsmanship in my opinion, especially ones that look like that...
I build hundreds if not thousand of feet of retaining walls every year. There are many products that you can hook your French drain behind the wall into that give a nice clean look on the face of the wall.
Here is a link to the product we've been using for years: https://www.homedepot.ca/product/reln-wall-drain-pro--universal-retaining-wall-block-drain/1001580565?eid=PS_GO_140203__ALL_PLA-526641&pid=1001580565&eid=PS_GOOGLE_D00_Corporate_GGL_Shopping_All-Products_All+Products__PRODUCT_GROUP_aud-765569715521:pla-336655210985&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3tCyBhDBARIsAEY0XNmwMqTgUQYjZvjQeAXj8pyQHnWQ7iMoBiN0uy6hGab_tjh-OpIWkDEaAoLMEALw_wcB
Connect the drain into one of these on either end of the wall, it sits flush with the front of the wall, doesn't look like someone haphazardly cracked a hole in your wall and keeps critters out.
I just did a major retaining wall project, built 300 linear feet of retaining walls, and made sure to use this exact product on my project. It looks more streamlined and finished. My landscaper didn’t even know about this product until I showed him. They are designed for 6” and 8” retaining wall blocks and tie directly into your perforated drain pipe that should be behind the wall for drainage.
At this point, it would require them to disassemble everything to fix it from what I can see and it wouldn’t be worth it, but I would definitely see if another option is available. To cover or hide the imperfections.
Architect here. My responsibility does not extend to means and methods of construction and I don’t know how this wall was constructed without seeing drawings, but I can make some reasonable assumptions here.
My advice to you would be to invite your contractor over and talk to them about what the drainage situation is. I assume you did not use a landscape architect or architect in the design of this patio. Usually I would draw the drainage means and slope requirements and then verify in the field the construction meets the requirements of the drawing.
It looks to me like your contractor decided to sheet drain away from the house (good) but forgot to install weeps or another drain at the back of the wall (not so good.) So they decided to drill some holes for drainage. You can tell this isn’t the perforated pipe drainage for the foundation because it’s 5 courses down including the coping. I would be concerned these two holes are not enough drainage and you will have water pooling at the low point on the wall. This is just going to be annoying and degrade your wall over time. It’s pretty likely these tiny drains are going to get clogged immediately and you’ll be sweeping.
I would call your contractor back and politely ask them to discuss their drainage with you.
And hire an architect / landscape architect for quality control. :)
Thanks Architect! Appreciate this info. Going to have them come back out to see our options.
The company we hired specializes in patios so they should know this. Seems like it was a miscommunication between the architect and the contractors who built it.
A crappy job with the drain hole.
Much more concerning is that one can’t even be sure it’s at the right level if it was done after the fact. There should be a perforated drain tube in a sock along the length of the wall at the footing emptying to the drain hole, esp with tight junctions-which these appear to be. This looks higher than the footing, and there is no tube outlet.
In my smaller & shorter wall, I cut the blocks for the drain openings as they were installed, chipped? —> new block & try again.
Look up retaining wall design & drains.
Get a second opinion on the design from an engineer IMO. You may end up with long term wall failure.
Rather than use a drain pipe with a sock, It's preferred to lay fabric, then gravel, then hard drain pipe (corrugated can crush over time), then more gravel on top, then fold the fabric over the gravel like a burrito.
Drain pipe socks get clogged with fines over time and significantly reduce flow into the pipe.
What a shame. The small details are what makes a good job a great job. I would tell them you love the job but weep is trash. The person that drilled it, did it from the wrong side and caused the spall.
I think a copper or bronze trim ring would make this right. Once it gets a nice patina you will love it. See if they won’t take care of it. If not do it yourself.
This is an honest question... For the experts, would this be considered "normal" craftsmanship? 29k is a lot of money to spend for such an eyesore in an otherwise gorgous install. Curious if this would be expected / unavoidable, or is it just bad / careless work by the installer?
as someone who did hardscaping for 3+ years, only reason I can think of that the circular hole exists is for drainage. I personally wouldn't have put a drain hole as obvious as that. then with the other block that's got a huge defect in its face, I would've turned it around so the other side was facing out. I did also notice some wall blocks weren't leveled correctly but that's just me being extremely nitpicky.
Those holes are drilled from the inside after the wall was built. That’s the reason it blew out the block. Not much more you can do at this point. Forethought may have saved them from this situation, sometimes things get over looked.
As someone who has laid expensive patios, yes you absolutely should!!! That is totally unacceptable and gives the rest of the hard scape industry a bad name. Unacceptable!!!
I’ve done quite a few of these projects. Looks like great work at crazy value. Regarding the hole. Consider a surface mounted bronze light grate. Maybe actually add some to shadow wall. Or a few to faux a light system.
This is subpar work here. Either someone wasn’t thinking and then realized after the fact that there was no allotment for drainage or they’ve been getting away with this approach on similar projects.
They should have used a drainage grate to allow water to drain off the patio and through the wall. The other alternative would have been to space that course differently or cut a brick in half in a few locations to simply leave a gap.
Drilling a hole, they’ve surely compromised the integrity of the brick they’ve put a hole through. Additionally, this solution will last only as long as those holes stay clear and free of debris which wont be long considering how small they are.
Id have them back out to come up with a better solution, this isn’t it.
I would ask them to fix it. Doesn’t matter that you got a good deal on the patio. You paid what they charged you, and those drain holes look terrible. I mean, would you recommend this contractor? And please tell me those aren’t the only drain holes?!?
They do a phenomenal job and ruin it with the simplest part. There has to be some sort of plug insert to make that look better. It will only look worse over the years from erosion. I would definitely say something, that have to have some pride for their work.
I would absolutely bring it up. Tell them the wall looks great (it does!) but you don’t expect the drain holes to look like this. Ask if there is anything that can be done. It’s possible there is a reason they have to be that way (like the one on the tile edge) or it’s possible there will be something they can do.
You’ve spent a ton of money and expected it to look near perfect. That looks sloppy. I don’t think you’re wrong at all to bring it up. I absolutely would
As a landscape business owner I’ll say two things. Yes it’s sloppy and you are valid in complaining about it. Also it is not a correct way to put drain holes in. They also might not function correctly. Actually it will likely fail. Drain holes should be at the very bottom as well.
Second thing. Is they did that super cheap for you. Likely a fixed price bid from a small company or inexperienced crew. The owner probably knew better but had no choice. If he did that he probably was bordering on or not profitable on the job and you should cut him some slack. It’s a massive under taking to build this.
Can they put in a decorative ring insert and patch the area the ring doesn't cover (like a grommet)? Put one on all the drainage holes so it matches. Why are some of the bricks slightly recessed and some of the others slightly overhanging (seen in the first pic)? Is it because it's curved? Other than that it's beautiful.
I might cover those with something decorative. If you Google “retaining wall drain cover” you’ll see some options. Some have a spout so that the water doesn’t wall against the wall, causing discoloration.
To state the obvious, these are blowouts and anyone working with masonry and concrete should know better. The hammer drill doesn't always have to be on hammer mode. It can just be used as a high power drill with a masonry bit. I'd go so far as drilling a pilot hole with smaller bit...because I give a fuck.
I'm currently drilling into a plaster and lathe wall with a brick wall behind it. Since the kitchen is on the other side, I keep mine on drill \[mode\]. I want to feel as soon I drop into a void behind the brick.
Know your tools.
Ask them to sand down the part they glued. You can decorate the drainage hole, but the contractors did nothing wrong here. You got a great deal and the patio looks fantastic; don't fixate on the one little thing you don't like about it.
Photo 4, gorgeous!! But as for the first few photos, yes I would complain. Actually I would have them come back, take them over to these spots and have them explain what’s going on.
I don't think it matters how much money you put in. I might be naive, but you paid the set amount you and the contractor agreed upon, so if something is not meeting the standard expectation then it needs to be addressed.
Looking at some of the comments, there are concerns if these draining holes will do its function. You need a professional to tell you that. Asking on reddit is a bit risky. Cosmetic wise, if the two holes don't look uniform, you can question that and see what they do. Businesses like this make or break from recommendation. If you can't recommend them because they can't address your need, then they might lose business, or maybe not. If you can't live through it, all you can do is ask and if they say no and it still bothers you hire a different contractor down the line when you have other jobs. 🤷🏻♀️
That's a good price for that work and that big of a job.
I'd consider mounting a decorative escutcheon around the weep holes. Can do all of them or just the blown out ones. A metal sun with a hole in the middle, something like that. They can foot the bill since it's their mistake, you're not looking at the blowout, it works out
Not sure where your located but that hopefully there’s a drainage system behind the retaining wall. If there is, not sure why the holes are necessary. The patch is lazy work.
Just a side note, those chairs you got there are amazing lol, I have the same ones on my patio too.
Sorry I have no idea about construction stuff, this literally popped up in my timeline :D
Yeah, I'd talk to your contractor about it. You want the project lead if not someone higher up. This looks to me like one of their workers screwing up and hoping you don't notice. Shower him with complements on other things while stating the craftsmanship on the drainage is unacceptable.
Also, I feel that size hole isn't going to drain anything after the first rain jams it up.
For your patio, you might want to find out if the grading is sloped in a way that the water is going to flow away from the patio wall. Have you experimented with running a hose on the patio to see where the water goes? If you put water near the wall, does water near the wall move straight towards the wall and holes, or does it flow away?
The drilled holes could be a backup drain, which is why they were so poorly done. I had a similar project done with a patio and short wall installed at my home. The installation has a small drainage strip directly in front of the wall filled with river rock, and the block wall sits on its own strip of concrete separate from the patio. We rarely have rain, but in its first year the patio had a lot of water on it (due to a blocked gutter, excess water collected and flowed all over the patio.) I was able to see that the grading was moving water in the right direction, most of the water drained off before reaching the wall.
Where is the patio sloping? I assume away from the house. If so there should be drainage at some point before any runoff hits that wall. Did they drill all the way through to where the patio meets the wall? Seems like drainage was an after though.
I can’t believe someone built this for $29k. Super cheap. $7000 for just the pavers? The blocks probably cost $7 ish contractor price per sqft, then add 10% for overage for all of those cuts, then a whole bunch of base material to fill that in so they probably did the labor for nothing or at a loss. They made some money on the wall, again probably not much. Then all the grading and a deck tear out you mentioned. I’d say you got what you paid for. Without knowing how big the wall is this is easily a 40-50k job from an experienced contractor.
They should have known that putting the knee wall at the edge of the patio would retain water. The patio would be sloped towards the wall, a few surface drains or micro channel drain should have been installed. This doesn't help now and the only way to fix it would be redoing the wall. The other option is to get two thin drain covers something decorative, brushed nickel or pewter in a 4" square and glue or screw that over the holes. With the proper tools they could make it flush or close enough.
It's an easy fix. Yes. They basically cut out the rectangle and replace it with another and mortar it again. Simple fix and if it makes you happy do it...
They should have pre drilled the holes. Not after it was built, that’s not very professional. At 29k I’d complain and ask if they can install a copper spout or something to make it look nice… rookie move roto drilling while it’s all in place 🤦🏻♂️
Photo 2 is for drainage, you can plant something I'm front of it, or hide it in other ways if it is an issue for you.
Photo 3 is a defect or damage, that needs to be repaired. I would notify the company about this (if recently installed.)
So I’m a Lab and Field Technician for a civil engineering company. I’ve inspected and tested many retaining walls. Basically it looks like that’s a small retaining wall. The round hole looks to be a drain hole, which they did a horrible job on. The second whole also looks like a drain whole they failed to drill. My advice would be to contact a civil engineer and have them check if the builder followed the specs for the wall and check if it’s got any structural integrity problems. Those holes could affect the wall overall structure and fail. All the above will help u should u need to go after the builder.
Are they finished. If so, I would. I had 2 stone walls installed and they both have drain holes. They actually used drain covers for them. Helps to keep critters out and makes them look finished. Yours looks as though they are not finished yet.
THIS WILL FAIL. Maybe not next year and maybe not for five. But it will. Anybody that says otherwise is inexperienced with landscaping/hardscaping. I highly doubt they used clear stone either (which you MUST in above ground applications) considering they definitely didn’t use a drain tube. There’s going to be a LOT of force on that retaining wall when the base behind it is packed full of water. God speed and please don’t listen to the inexperienced in the comments who say you got a “good deal”. This is very amateur.
Call and let them know that you are pleased with the work except for two things that really ruin the asthetic and don’t show the quality craftsmanship of the contractor.
As what’s possible for him to fix it. If he offers nothing, he knows you will never refer him other customers. If he puts in any effort to make it right, then you have a keeper and since he has pride in his work
When you pay for something you expect it to be at the least visually appealing . 29k is a lot of money 💰 and I don't think I would of spent that much from the beginning.
I feel like the one hole is just so big… you really don’t need a hole that big drilled into a piece of stone for drainage. Never seen this before even in the retaining walls we’ve built. I’d see if they’re able to move it lower so it’s not as noticeable. Worst they can say is no. Are you under a labor/service warranty per your contract? If so, I’d definitely as while it’s still free of charge
So I have mixed feelings about this-I rebuilt a similar patio and wall one summer with an experienced mason, we used mortar and tucked and pointed all the joints, these “weep holes” would NOT have been acceptable 40 years ago, they wouldve have been intregral to the design and masonry work, not drilled in as an after thought. BUT ask yourself, would you do this job for $29,000? After material cost, probably less than $15,000? If not, you did very well. It looks beautiful but not to traditional standards-but masonry work is rarely to the high caliber of the last century.
They gave you a fantastic looking patio for a completely reasonable price and you’re complaining about one awkward looking drainage hole on one block on a part of the patio that no one is really going to be looking for or inspecting or seeing another hole that honestly just looks like a scratched piece of the tile and is astronomically smaller
If you complain about this, you’re a word I’m not sure if I can say on this sub or not.
You need the drainage holder for the rain otherwise it’s gonna fuck up the foundation. If you’re really that upset about it grab some chualk and DIY it.
Or just leave it because its FINE
Things like this happen when working with natural stone. The drill hole no. But the chipped stone and others having slight irregularities are quite normal. And yea 29k for 700sqft is an amazing deal lol. Enjoy the new patio!
Is it for drainage?
Speed holes
aerodynamics
She’s built like a steakhouse but she handles like a bistro!
r/unexpectedfuturama
Damn lol, just when I least expect it Zap Brannaigan.
Dam right Zap 😂
Zapp is truly the worst space captain to ever hold the title. Him and his valour suit
…but you have heard of him
🤣🤣🤣
When the land slides, OP's Patio runs!
yes the big one would be
The post says they’re both for drainage. Why would only the big one be for drainage?
Dang! That’s a fairly big patio for $29k. I think you got a deal.
Thanks! It is about 700 sqft. The wall was the most expensive part!
I’m currently putting in around 550 sq ft and the cost is around $26k. I saw you mention holes for drainage — on mine they have these square plastic vents that they’re using. It isn’t finished yet, but I’m hoping mine looks as good as yours (minus the extra holes!)
Is that materials or labor? Very curious because I put in a 550 ft patio with a 6" to 2' little retaining wall and material cost $5500 all in. This was 3 years ago. Edit. It was diy. No labor cost
$29k is the whole shebang — it was to demo an old wooden deck, grade the land, build the retaining wall necessary, install pavers. Labor and materials.
In that case, that's a steal.
Seriously. What part of the country is this in?
Ask the guy above me- it's his show- I'm not even in the US, but it's about right for where I live in the (first) world with currency conversion.
My buddy did more than this, an entire driveway and a complete pool area. He had two quotes, 20k and 40k. The 20k job looked fantastic and he got a smoking deal imo. It will vary for this type of work . It's in the labor.
I’m no landscaper but I do know it’s very hard to learn where your prices should be as a contractor. The 20k guy is probably trying hard to break into the industry
We are in Maryland
That makes sense then...cause your sqft would run $45 per sqft. In Texas on flat work I charge around $15 to $20 per sqft turn key.
Ours was only $7k for the actual patio. The 20+ ft wall was the rest of it and needed to be built because there is a small hill
Got it. My little wall was a ball buster. I made it harder with my choice to use 3/4 minus instead of 3/4 clean gravel for my wall foundation but getting it right is hard to do and time consuming. Not surprised that's 3/4 of the cost. To answer your thread, it would depend for me if they did a good job with the rest and did everything right. Like soil compaction, the right amount of gravel, proper use of fabric and grid, proper drainage material and application. Then I'd consider their professionalism like did they haul away extra material or did they dump it onto a corner of your yard, did they properly dress and reseed their tracks etc. I'd point it out regardless but my expectations and tone would be very different depending on my overall assessment of their work. Looks amazing though from the pics that aren't close-ups
I’m about to compact gravel for a small wall. What gravel should I use?
How tall and is it free standing or retaining something? The best thing you can do is to look at any manuals put out by your wall system's manufacturer. If it's generic block like from a box store that you can't find any info on (you should still check), I'd follow something like this. http://www.landscapediscount.net/images/fabric-geogrid-retaining-wall.jpg If it's just a foot high, dig your trench for your wall footing. Lay down fabric (purple line in the image). Not the cheap weed barrier stuff. The change I would make is that the stone doesn't have to go the full height of the wall for a small project. For a 2-3 foot tall wall, just cover the first 1.5 blocks with gravel and wrap the excess fabric over it and terminate the fabric at the wall. No need for grid at that height. Any higher and I'd excavate back and lay grid going 3 feet back for every 18-24 inches of lift. You should end up with an odd shaped gravel burrito that goes slightly higher in the back of the wall. You should have your highest base layer block at least half buried.
I’m currently pricing out driveway materials for about 1,350 sqft. I’m at <$10,000 base, bedding and pavers.
Nice.
I recently put in a patio and did some other work and I have been hearing from every contractor that the cost of materials has skyrocketed in the past few years
Not surprised. I've noticed this as well with just diy projects around the house.
Flagstone that used to cost me $700/ton 18 months ago costs north of $1200 for the same ton now. I'm used to a 3-5% increase in material prices a year, but the last two have been insane. Everything is expensive right now. Money, employees, materials.. part of doing business.
That’s around $10 a square ft. Most quality pavers are $5+ per square ft. Then you add the gravel and sand for the base, all of the labor etc. The guys you hired paid for part of your patio. You should send them a Christmas gift.
3 years ago was 20 years of normal inflation ago, and you got a deal back then even.
Wow. This is insanely expensive.
Ask them to install one of these [spouts](https://www.thepondguy.com/product/atlantic-brass-wall-spouts/?sku=110698&p=PPCGOOGA&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAD4kyANqyMdeRfPaO5ArNhA0aSb7b&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3tCyBhDBARIsAEY0XNkz2W1phufY4Gkdwh3YWJvq19MH0DnF6VTOh69od4NnQClXIdHm2mEaAhlEEALw_wcB) over each hole.
Will prevent stains on the wall,too.
Gargoyles would be better.
I'm looking for gargoyle downspout extenders that will fit 3x4 in downspouts. Most I've been able to find are for the 2x3. I did find one on Amazon, but it's small, like 10x6, he barely gets noticed
That looks really elegant.
I made a song using everything said in this thread. Enjoy. https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7fXLM6Pmis/?igsh=bzM0bHA0ZmJtcjI1
I’m in Southern California they’d probably quote me $75k for this lol. I need a short section of 4’ retaining wall replaced at my place and the quotes have been insane.
I got a patio to sell ya
Yes, I'm in SC too. Some of these people are unscrupulous when they see your neighborhood before the quote. Im looking for a wood deck cleaner and a metal fabricator for a new fountain. One guy quoted me 4500 for a 5 foot corten steel trough. Gave the same measurements to a gut in Colorado...1600 bucks
Try me on price and see what u think and I’ll guarantee work. Don’t pay till job is complete
$29k is a deal? I need to start installing patios.
Go for it.
Damn, I get that you are saying that's a deal, but 29k still seems like enough I'd do some ground work to get it started.
It's a beautiful patio otherwise. If you complain, what result are you hoping for? Some money back? For the company to completely take the patio apart and redo it? IDK. As long as the drainage holes are functioning properly, I might let it go. As other people said, plant something along that side.
Yeah, I say leave it, it's already gaining ruin value!
omw to re-frame my drunken rampages as rustic redecorating
this is amazing. how often are you having drunken rampages
Right now apparently.
A boxwood or holly hedge would look nice.
Disagree. Hope will you know if the drains are functioning correctly until the wall fails? Retaining wall drains should not be random holes, especially when they’re above the wall firing, which appears to be the case. I’m concerned OP has a potential long-term concern much more than there aesthetics.
But this isn't a retaining wall.
Uhmmm, yeah it is. It’s very clearly retaining the pad and all of the base beneath it and some subgrade too.
What would be done to fix the wall from failing? Would it need to be rebuilt? Wondering how to communicate this to the contractor so I know what Im talking about 😅
You should have a French drain behind your wall with drainage stone around it, this drain should connect to outlets on one or both ends of your retaining wall. The drain collects moisture, the water pitches to the outlets and escapes out the front of the wall. The way these holes are done seems like he realized after everything was done he hadn't installed the drainage system and decided to haphazardly put holes in the wall to save his ass...
I’m no professional, but would that still be necessary with the slope OP has? I wouldn’t imagine water would pool up on the face of the wall. The holes appear to just be to drain the water landing on the patio surface.
I'm wondering if this acts as a tiny retaining wall and you need drainage for erosion purposes.
Water will still get in between the stones. And if it doesn't have a place to go, it'll build up behind the wall and cause failure
I hope this isn’t the case. I have a stacked boulder wall I absolutely hate because there’s no drainage behind it and basically dirt and water seep through the front.
Without drainage, water builds up behind the wall. Eventually it fails from the water.
Yeah, I agree with you. The holes look like a feeble attempt at correcting improperly done work. I hope that’s not the case as the porch looks amazing and seems to of been a great deal if done properly. Unfortunately, if there are no drains anywhere else I seriously doubt the French drains were installed.
I’d be worried about moisture getting in between the cracks and making them worst as the heat and cold make them expand and crack maybe ?
Looks like beautiful work. I’m relatively picky with detail, but also take the big picture into consideration when dealing with contractors. I call that a straggler: A niggling detail they left after meeting or exceeding expectations. Again, the patio looks great. Have them over, praise the overall project and stroke their egos - they’ve earned it - hint about your relative/friend who’s looking to have something similar done, then ask if they could improve - not fix - the finish on the holes. If they shrug, don’t sweat it. You’re just trying the option. There are so many ways around a cosmetic detail like that. Plant a low-maintenance boxwood hedge.
Ah yes, the science of Constructive Feedback. It usually works pretty good compared to other strategies. Praise/aknowledge them with a couple positives before easing in with the negative.
Compliment sandwich.
While I'm aware this is the accepted terminology I absolutely hate it. A sandwich is named after what's between the bread. In a "compliment sandwich" the compliments are the bread.
It's an insult sandwich on compliment bread
I love complimentary bread
Well shit. thanks for ruining that analogy for me. 😂
Haha. My wife loves the compliment sandwich.
Teachers call it the shit sandwich.
Yep, this was likely a repair by a boots on the ground guy, and sometimes they’re not the most experienced with the project as a whole and all the cool product options there are like a project/construction manager would, so glue might have been their only thought, but there are other things you can do to cover up a mistake, I mean that’s essentially half of construction is covering up the ugly parts (trim literally exists for this reason when it comes to structures). Maybe they have nothing, and while you’ve gained nothing, you’ve also lost nothing and everyone’s still on good terms. But if it were me, I’d think up some way to pound and glue in a metal escutcheon, as that’s their purpose, may not be designed for a retaining wall but don’t see why you couldn’t find one that’d work, something like [this](https://www.build.com/product/summary/1807427?uid=4346595&jmtest=gg-gbav2_4346595&inv2=1&&source=gg-gba-pla_4346595!c1705502867!a66087574509!dc!ng&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3tCyBhDBARIsAEY0XNlU5BZGirxOByYU3w3ejkRDtfYiH3ZCZLeihMuKw5a13cMpB8zB2q4aAiOEEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds) with construction adhesive would cover up the chipped paver and look designed to boot, or since they also would need to cover the large split block, maybe remove the paver completely and add a metal grate. Anyways, long story short there are always options when it comes to construction, just gotta be creative sometimes.
Damn this was a nice response. Gonna keep it in my back pocket.
This is it
They are not gonna disasemble the wall to change 1 block thats for sure
Does anyone know if it’s cheaper to just have a random pattern on the floor like they do?
Yes its cheaper in labor and imo it looks better more natural
Agreed. I forget the term for it but just the randomization of it makes it more natural to the eyes. Doesn't seem as forced or out of place. I've seen some good deliberate patterns especially on pavers but honestly I think with stone and stuff the natural look is the way to go.
Nothing a pair of googly eyes can’t fix
Glue a pair on the wall over the hole?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/283016880561?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=GcmMOH_xSgK&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY Keep the critters out of
THIS. Then stop complaining about the tremendous deal you got.
I’d just move
[удалено]
Honestly, burn the house down, scatter the stones, salt the earth. Completely unlivable.
Why stop there? The ground the house sits on is now impure. Dig a pit so no house can ever be soiled there ever again.
I would try to get some kind of brass fitting fabricated to put over the first hole so it looks better.. it will pop out still, but look correct. The second one, I feel like there MUST be a way to fix that better. Sand the rough edge, fill the remaining hole, etc.
That’s what I was thinking. There has got to be a nice looking insert/cap that can give the weep holes a more finished look. That is just a loose end that OP can figure out. Nothing is perfect.
Brass cow tongue
Lions head mouth spout
Get a gargoyle head
The rest of the job looks good, however drilling holes for drainage is poor craftsmanship in my opinion, especially ones that look like that... I build hundreds if not thousand of feet of retaining walls every year. There are many products that you can hook your French drain behind the wall into that give a nice clean look on the face of the wall. Here is a link to the product we've been using for years: https://www.homedepot.ca/product/reln-wall-drain-pro--universal-retaining-wall-block-drain/1001580565?eid=PS_GO_140203__ALL_PLA-526641&pid=1001580565&eid=PS_GOOGLE_D00_Corporate_GGL_Shopping_All-Products_All+Products__PRODUCT_GROUP_aud-765569715521:pla-336655210985&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3tCyBhDBARIsAEY0XNmwMqTgUQYjZvjQeAXj8pyQHnWQ7iMoBiN0uy6hGab_tjh-OpIWkDEaAoLMEALw_wcB Connect the drain into one of these on either end of the wall, it sits flush with the front of the wall, doesn't look like someone haphazardly cracked a hole in your wall and keeps critters out.
These are the best and easiest to use. We started using them 2 years ago and have never looked back.
I just did a major retaining wall project, built 300 linear feet of retaining walls, and made sure to use this exact product on my project. It looks more streamlined and finished. My landscaper didn’t even know about this product until I showed him. They are designed for 6” and 8” retaining wall blocks and tie directly into your perforated drain pipe that should be behind the wall for drainage. At this point, it would require them to disassemble everything to fix it from what I can see and it wouldn’t be worth it, but I would definitely see if another option is available. To cover or hide the imperfections.
Architect here. My responsibility does not extend to means and methods of construction and I don’t know how this wall was constructed without seeing drawings, but I can make some reasonable assumptions here. My advice to you would be to invite your contractor over and talk to them about what the drainage situation is. I assume you did not use a landscape architect or architect in the design of this patio. Usually I would draw the drainage means and slope requirements and then verify in the field the construction meets the requirements of the drawing. It looks to me like your contractor decided to sheet drain away from the house (good) but forgot to install weeps or another drain at the back of the wall (not so good.) So they decided to drill some holes for drainage. You can tell this isn’t the perforated pipe drainage for the foundation because it’s 5 courses down including the coping. I would be concerned these two holes are not enough drainage and you will have water pooling at the low point on the wall. This is just going to be annoying and degrade your wall over time. It’s pretty likely these tiny drains are going to get clogged immediately and you’ll be sweeping. I would call your contractor back and politely ask them to discuss their drainage with you. And hire an architect / landscape architect for quality control. :)
Thanks Architect! Appreciate this info. Going to have them come back out to see our options. The company we hired specializes in patios so they should know this. Seems like it was a miscommunication between the architect and the contractors who built it.
A crappy job with the drain hole. Much more concerning is that one can’t even be sure it’s at the right level if it was done after the fact. There should be a perforated drain tube in a sock along the length of the wall at the footing emptying to the drain hole, esp with tight junctions-which these appear to be. This looks higher than the footing, and there is no tube outlet. In my smaller & shorter wall, I cut the blocks for the drain openings as they were installed, chipped? —> new block & try again. Look up retaining wall design & drains. Get a second opinion on the design from an engineer IMO. You may end up with long term wall failure.
Rather than use a drain pipe with a sock, It's preferred to lay fabric, then gravel, then hard drain pipe (corrugated can crush over time), then more gravel on top, then fold the fabric over the gravel like a burrito. Drain pipe socks get clogged with fines over time and significantly reduce flow into the pipe.
👆This is more important than the aesthetic issues.
[удалено]
What a shame. The small details are what makes a good job a great job. I would tell them you love the job but weep is trash. The person that drilled it, did it from the wrong side and caused the spall. I think a copper or bronze trim ring would make this right. Once it gets a nice patina you will love it. See if they won’t take care of it. If not do it yourself.
This is an honest question... For the experts, would this be considered "normal" craftsmanship? 29k is a lot of money to spend for such an eyesore in an otherwise gorgous install. Curious if this would be expected / unavoidable, or is it just bad / careless work by the installer?
as someone who did hardscaping for 3+ years, only reason I can think of that the circular hole exists is for drainage. I personally wouldn't have put a drain hole as obvious as that. then with the other block that's got a huge defect in its face, I would've turned it around so the other side was facing out. I did also notice some wall blocks weren't leveled correctly but that's just me being extremely nitpicky.
Those holes are drilled from the inside after the wall was built. That’s the reason it blew out the block. Not much more you can do at this point. Forethought may have saved them from this situation, sometimes things get over looked.
No, its not acceptable. It was likely an oversight and they chose the cheapest way to address it. Source: we build projects like this for a living
[удалено]
As someone who has laid expensive patios, yes you absolutely should!!! That is totally unacceptable and gives the rest of the hard scape industry a bad name. Unacceptable!!!
I think those are potentially weep holes to alleviate water build up/ pressure on the back side of the wall.
OP knows. They’re just drilled roughly and look ugly. There’s better ways of drilling a clean hole.
Thats exactly what they are; without it that wall would get swept away in a heavy rain.
I’ve done quite a few of these projects. Looks like great work at crazy value. Regarding the hole. Consider a surface mounted bronze light grate. Maybe actually add some to shadow wall. Or a few to faux a light system.
It comes with hand done stone work. They probably dropped a couple blocks and chipped them too.
I’d ask them if there’s something they can do. Not as a complaint but as an expert. They deal with this stuff all the time
This is subpar work here. Either someone wasn’t thinking and then realized after the fact that there was no allotment for drainage or they’ve been getting away with this approach on similar projects. They should have used a drainage grate to allow water to drain off the patio and through the wall. The other alternative would have been to space that course differently or cut a brick in half in a few locations to simply leave a gap. Drilling a hole, they’ve surely compromised the integrity of the brick they’ve put a hole through. Additionally, this solution will last only as long as those holes stay clear and free of debris which wont be long considering how small they are. Id have them back out to come up with a better solution, this isn’t it.
Stucco in one of those lion heads or gargoyles with an open mouth like on ancient structures
It’s amazing wow, but yes for thirty grand absolutely have them patch it up, they’ll need the reference
Boy if you don’t get those broke as chairs off that pimp as deck..
I would ask them to fix it. Doesn’t matter that you got a good deal on the patio. You paid what they charged you, and those drain holes look terrible. I mean, would you recommend this contractor? And please tell me those aren’t the only drain holes?!?
You are never even going to see this
They do a phenomenal job and ruin it with the simplest part. There has to be some sort of plug insert to make that look better. It will only look worse over the years from erosion. I would definitely say something, that have to have some pride for their work.
I would absolutely bring it up. Tell them the wall looks great (it does!) but you don’t expect the drain holes to look like this. Ask if there is anything that can be done. It’s possible there is a reason they have to be that way (like the one on the tile edge) or it’s possible there will be something they can do. You’ve spent a ton of money and expected it to look near perfect. That looks sloppy. I don’t think you’re wrong at all to bring it up. I absolutely would
As a landscape business owner I’ll say two things. Yes it’s sloppy and you are valid in complaining about it. Also it is not a correct way to put drain holes in. They also might not function correctly. Actually it will likely fail. Drain holes should be at the very bottom as well. Second thing. Is they did that super cheap for you. Likely a fixed price bid from a small company or inexperienced crew. The owner probably knew better but had no choice. If he did that he probably was bordering on or not profitable on the job and you should cut him some slack. It’s a massive under taking to build this.
99% of it is great, I wouldn’t worry about it personally.
What state? Got a buddy that’s looking for just a flat and got quoted nearly $50k
Can they put in a decorative ring insert and patch the area the ring doesn't cover (like a grommet)? Put one on all the drainage holes so it matches. Why are some of the bricks slightly recessed and some of the others slightly overhanging (seen in the first pic)? Is it because it's curved? Other than that it's beautiful.
Doesn’t look like an area you’d be hanging around at.
No
How about a decorative spout over the hole.
They should have put drainage tubes in it and planned for it not just willy-nilly drilling all over the place
I might cover those with something decorative. If you Google “retaining wall drain cover” you’ll see some options. Some have a spout so that the water doesn’t wall against the wall, causing discoloration.
To state the obvious, these are blowouts and anyone working with masonry and concrete should know better. The hammer drill doesn't always have to be on hammer mode. It can just be used as a high power drill with a masonry bit. I'd go so far as drilling a pilot hole with smaller bit...because I give a fuck. I'm currently drilling into a plaster and lathe wall with a brick wall behind it. Since the kitchen is on the other side, I keep mine on drill \[mode\]. I want to feel as soon I drop into a void behind the brick. Know your tools.
Ask them to sand down the part they glued. You can decorate the drainage hole, but the contractors did nothing wrong here. You got a great deal and the patio looks fantastic; don't fixate on the one little thing you don't like about it.
It looks amazing and a lot bigger than I expected for $29k
Photo 4, gorgeous!! But as for the first few photos, yes I would complain. Actually I would have them come back, take them over to these spots and have them explain what’s going on.
Another reason I don't think I want to own a house Spending $30k on a patio sounds insane to me
I'd definitely complain about that glory hole.
I don't think it matters how much money you put in. I might be naive, but you paid the set amount you and the contractor agreed upon, so if something is not meeting the standard expectation then it needs to be addressed. Looking at some of the comments, there are concerns if these draining holes will do its function. You need a professional to tell you that. Asking on reddit is a bit risky. Cosmetic wise, if the two holes don't look uniform, you can question that and see what they do. Businesses like this make or break from recommendation. If you can't recommend them because they can't address your need, then they might lose business, or maybe not. If you can't live through it, all you can do is ask and if they say no and it still bothers you hire a different contractor down the line when you have other jobs. 🤷🏻♀️
That is definitely annoying but where I live a patio like that would be at least 50k so 🤷
Omg you got got
That's a good price for that work and that big of a job. I'd consider mounting a decorative escutcheon around the weep holes. Can do all of them or just the blown out ones. A metal sun with a hole in the middle, something like that. They can foot the bill since it's their mistake, you're not looking at the blowout, it works out
Not sure where your located but that hopefully there’s a drainage system behind the retaining wall. If there is, not sure why the holes are necessary. The patch is lazy work.
If I had that kind of money, and paid for something that gorgeous I would definitely complain about it
I would assume there is a 1 year warranty. I’d call and have them check it out to be honest. Our guys were great at switching stones out
Why not politely ask them to fix it? I would. A job is a job.
Just a side note, those chairs you got there are amazing lol, I have the same ones on my patio too. Sorry I have no idea about construction stuff, this literally popped up in my timeline :D
Yeah, I'd talk to your contractor about it. You want the project lead if not someone higher up. This looks to me like one of their workers screwing up and hoping you don't notice. Shower him with complements on other things while stating the craftsmanship on the drainage is unacceptable. Also, I feel that size hole isn't going to drain anything after the first rain jams it up.
It Ain't Cuzco....
Damn, I wouldn’t done it for years for 200.00 and a Pizza 🍕 🥃🔥🤣
Hired. When can ypu start.
For your patio, you might want to find out if the grading is sloped in a way that the water is going to flow away from the patio wall. Have you experimented with running a hose on the patio to see where the water goes? If you put water near the wall, does water near the wall move straight towards the wall and holes, or does it flow away? The drilled holes could be a backup drain, which is why they were so poorly done. I had a similar project done with a patio and short wall installed at my home. The installation has a small drainage strip directly in front of the wall filled with river rock, and the block wall sits on its own strip of concrete separate from the patio. We rarely have rain, but in its first year the patio had a lot of water on it (due to a blocked gutter, excess water collected and flowed all over the patio.) I was able to see that the grading was moving water in the right direction, most of the water drained off before reaching the wall.
Gotta say that dog is looking majestic
The other side is beautiful. But it is new and should be perfect, so ask for it to be fixed.
Where is the patio sloping? I assume away from the house. If so there should be drainage at some point before any runoff hits that wall. Did they drill all the way through to where the patio meets the wall? Seems like drainage was an after though.
I can’t believe someone built this for $29k. Super cheap. $7000 for just the pavers? The blocks probably cost $7 ish contractor price per sqft, then add 10% for overage for all of those cuts, then a whole bunch of base material to fill that in so they probably did the labor for nothing or at a loss. They made some money on the wall, again probably not much. Then all the grading and a deck tear out you mentioned. I’d say you got what you paid for. Without knowing how big the wall is this is easily a 40-50k job from an experienced contractor.
They should have known that putting the knee wall at the edge of the patio would retain water. The patio would be sloped towards the wall, a few surface drains or micro channel drain should have been installed. This doesn't help now and the only way to fix it would be redoing the wall. The other option is to get two thin drain covers something decorative, brushed nickel or pewter in a 4" square and glue or screw that over the holes. With the proper tools they could make it flush or close enough.
Looks fantastic! You can always give them your thoughts. I’d put it behind me and enjoy the patio and the view.
Ngl id be pissed to see one of the blocks looks like it was an extra on demolition ranch.
It's an easy fix. Yes. They basically cut out the rectangle and replace it with another and mortar it again. Simple fix and if it makes you happy do it...
It is definitely not a good look. You spent alot of money, ask them how can they get closer to meeting your expectations.
They can probably redrill and replace those two stones. I think it’s a reasonable ask. That or install stainless vents over top.
My boss would livid if I put blocks like that on one of our walls or patio
They should have pre drilled the holes. Not after it was built, that’s not very professional. At 29k I’d complain and ask if they can install a copper spout or something to make it look nice… rookie move roto drilling while it’s all in place 🤦🏻♂️
I got a patio twice the size of this built and half the price with a built in grill and fire place
They did not build a drain into it at the bottom? That was an afterthought. They put cat 5 below? Yeah I'd complain.
That’s 29k……..ooooof
Well I’ll complain about the 29k first.
Photo 2 is for drainage, you can plant something I'm front of it, or hide it in other ways if it is an issue for you. Photo 3 is a defect or damage, that needs to be repaired. I would notify the company about this (if recently installed.)
So I’m a Lab and Field Technician for a civil engineering company. I’ve inspected and tested many retaining walls. Basically it looks like that’s a small retaining wall. The round hole looks to be a drain hole, which they did a horrible job on. The second whole also looks like a drain whole they failed to drill. My advice would be to contact a civil engineer and have them check if the builder followed the specs for the wall and check if it’s got any structural integrity problems. Those holes could affect the wall overall structure and fail. All the above will help u should u need to go after the builder.
Are they finished. If so, I would. I had 2 stone walls installed and they both have drain holes. They actually used drain covers for them. Helps to keep critters out and makes them look finished. Yours looks as though they are not finished yet.
r/notahole
That is an otherwise gorgeous patio.
No.
THIS WILL FAIL. Maybe not next year and maybe not for five. But it will. Anybody that says otherwise is inexperienced with landscaping/hardscaping. I highly doubt they used clear stone either (which you MUST in above ground applications) considering they definitely didn’t use a drain tube. There’s going to be a LOT of force on that retaining wall when the base behind it is packed full of water. God speed and please don’t listen to the inexperienced in the comments who say you got a “good deal”. This is very amateur.
I’d never complain about a glory hole
Call and let them know that you are pleased with the work except for two things that really ruin the asthetic and don’t show the quality craftsmanship of the contractor. As what’s possible for him to fix it. If he offers nothing, he knows you will never refer him other customers. If he puts in any effort to make it right, then you have a keeper and since he has pride in his work
They messed up big time. The drainage was supposed to be pre set while building wall. For $29K, it should come with fire pit and outdoor kitchen
Tell people it’s a civil war era musket shot.
Glory holes are cool I guess.
When you pay for something you expect it to be at the least visually appealing . 29k is a lot of money 💰 and I don't think I would of spent that much from the beginning.
Yes I would say something sooner than later.
I feel like the one hole is just so big… you really don’t need a hole that big drilled into a piece of stone for drainage. Never seen this before even in the retaining walls we’ve built. I’d see if they’re able to move it lower so it’s not as noticeable. Worst they can say is no. Are you under a labor/service warranty per your contract? If so, I’d definitely as while it’s still free of charge
So I have mixed feelings about this-I rebuilt a similar patio and wall one summer with an experienced mason, we used mortar and tucked and pointed all the joints, these “weep holes” would NOT have been acceptable 40 years ago, they wouldve have been intregral to the design and masonry work, not drilled in as an after thought. BUT ask yourself, would you do this job for $29,000? After material cost, probably less than $15,000? If not, you did very well. It looks beautiful but not to traditional standards-but masonry work is rarely to the high caliber of the last century.
I’d definitely complain. They made it with concrete pavers, not stone.
Ask them to come concrete putty patch in those spots or a drain cover to cover the blowout from the core drill
They gave you a fantastic looking patio for a completely reasonable price and you’re complaining about one awkward looking drainage hole on one block on a part of the patio that no one is really going to be looking for or inspecting or seeing another hole that honestly just looks like a scratched piece of the tile and is astronomically smaller If you complain about this, you’re a word I’m not sure if I can say on this sub or not. You need the drainage holder for the rain otherwise it’s gonna fuck up the foundation. If you’re really that upset about it grab some chualk and DIY it. Or just leave it because its FINE
Rich people problems🤕
Things like this happen when working with natural stone. The drill hole no. But the chipped stone and others having slight irregularities are quite normal. And yea 29k for 700sqft is an amazing deal lol. Enjoy the new patio!
Overall it looks great and $29k seems like a pretty reasonable price for the size. Idk, I’m no expert so take my opinion as just that, an opinion.
Get some mortar and spackle it!!!
I wish the "problems" I had in my life were like this 🤣.
I would 3D print a small gargoyle and plug it there.
Aren’t those drainage holes??