Tuesday, December 9, 2014

3D Virtual Design

All good things in life start with a good plan. Carrying out an outdoor project is no exception. Whether you are doing new construction or updating an existing area, small project, big project, short term timeline, long term timeline, you always need to start with a solid plan. That is where we come in. The experience our trained 3D virtual designers have accumulated over decades allows us to put together a comprehensive design for any scale outdoor project including anything you can possibly think about including. We go beyond typical landscape items to include components such as hillside transformations, pool projects, outdoor rooms, waterfalls, home additions, and much more. The professionals at Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes are able to design such items and incorporate all resources needed to carry out the construction as well!

Take a look at these virtual creations come to life!

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Pools & Hot Tub Designs?

Pools & Hot Tub Designs? Why, YES, we do that! Proper planning to add a pool and/or hot tub into your backyard design is necessary. Our design consultants will ensure that the install runs smoothly from excavation to end and all safety codes are followed (such as placement and fencing) and incorporated into your design!

Contact Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes for more information!

Friday, June 20, 2014

Spruce Up Your Landscape


Are these summer showers causing your landscape to grow out of control? Perhaps the recent heavy storms have wreaked havoc on your plantings and created a mess. Good news! There are several things you can do to improve your home's outlook:

• Tame your flowers, weeds and shrubs; this is essential to an appealing landscape. If your landscape is overgrown, it depreciates your property’s appearance and value. Trimming out-of-control plants that are taking over your landscape and becoming an eyesore will spruce things up quickly!

• Flower beds quickly fill with weeds with unusually rainy weather. Removing grass and weeds from your landscape beds and along walkways and fences is a quick way to improve the overall appearance of your home. Cleaning up and refreshing your mulch will slow future weed growth, conserve water, and give distinguished lines to the landscape.

• Remove old, tired plantings or those destroyed by heavy winds and rains, and replace with fresh greenery and color. Attractive combinations of shrubs, evergreens, perennials and annuals can change the atmosphere of your property.

• Add lighting to highlight your beautiful landscape beds and line walkways. Even just a few well-placed lights can add quite the ambiance to the outdoor view of your home and give it a cozy, warm feel as well as add security.

• Create a pathway through a garden or well-landscaped area. There is an array of paving products offering colors and textures beyond basic concrete.

Contact Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes to schedule an estimate. Regain control of your flowers and greenery and give your landscape new life! Visit us at www.pghsw.com!

Friday, May 30, 2014

Do you want this?


Live near Gibsonia (we'll deliver free) or don't mind hauling up to pick up yourself? Text 412.709.4573 with your information. 3 tons of 1-2 ft. broken up limestone and some boulders ready to go TODAY!

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Expanding Again - Join Our Team

SEARCHING FOR A FEW GOOD MEN...

Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes is in search of additional field employees to be added to our steadily growing staff!

PSW is a premier company specializing in innovative projects such as outdoor rooms including kitchens, fireplaces, patios, driveways, ponds, waterfalls, pools, landscaping, excavation and much more. We separate ourselves from other construction companies by our professionalism, experience, organization, and educational systems for our employees. Our employees' compensation is based on experience and performance. We also offer medical benefits, retirement plans, paid vacation, end of year bonuses, and more.

We are looking for individuals who have experience in the landscape and/or hardscape construction field. Candidates for this position must possess the minimum requirements below:

• At least 2 years experience installing pavers and retaining walls
• Valid PA driver's license and own transportation to and from work
• Physically fit, no existing medical problems, and able to lift 85 lbs. continuously
• Positive attitude
• Punctual, reliable, and shows initiative
• Drug free - *Candidates must also agree to be subject to random drug tests.
• Ability to work 6am - 5pm M-F, and Saturdays when needed (Initial report to each morning is Cecil, PA.)
• Ability to operate heavy equipment used on the job: dump truck, skid steer, excavator, trencher, tampers, carpentry tools and hand tools
• Daily communication with Project Foreman
• Responsible for paper work such as time cards and receipts
• Aggressively display initiative to learn new skills and abilities

If you meet the above criteria and are interested in learning more about our company and the position offered, follow the steps below:

1. Submit your resume. If you do not have a full resume, please tell us as much as you can about yourself and your abilities and experience as well as list of previous positions.
2. Also include 3 EMPLOYER references (no personal references or family members) - this needs to include:
Contact Name:
Company Name:
Telephone number or email address:
3. Send all to info@pghsw.com.

Keep in mind, we are one of the best because we only work with the best. If you are not serious about this position or not qualified, you will not sustain your position on our team.

You may want to visit our web site online to see our work and learn more history on our company at www.pghsw.com.

Friday, May 16, 2014

Fall Consultations

Schedule your consult now to discuss your fall outdoor project!

Our summer projects are well underway, and it's been an exciting and busy season thus far! Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes' schedule is full through September, but then is not to late to have your dream project completed for immediate fall enjoyment and entertainment!

Update Your Landscape
Pull a few plants here; add a few shrubs there. Updating your landscape can change the entire look of your home! When you remove old, tired plantings, you have a great opportunity to see the space you have to work with. Change colors completely or simply add in more to your existing greenery. Plants, shrubs and trees are healthy for the environment and adds beauty to your landscape and home!

Backyard Dreamscapes
Dream * Design * Build
Our design professionals can make that backyard escape come to life while increasing your home's curb appeal and property value! Fall is a great time to install, as you will immediately be able to enjoy that fire pit or fireplace during the chilly fall evenings and be ready to entertain in the spring as soon as it hits!

Water Features
Water is the source of all life, and the sound of moving water can serve to relax us like no other sound in nature! A water feature in your landscape transforms your outdoor living space into a peaceful paradise where you can relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature while enjoying time with family and friends. Let the professionals at Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes create the perfect pond and waterfall to suit your landscape area, and enjoy the benefits immediately!

Lighting
Add security, ambiance, and beauty to your home, hardscape or landscape with LED lighting placed just so to create the look you want! Add a few lights or many to bring about an entirely different feel. Our experts will walk through with you to discuss your needs and wishes.

Our schedule fills quickly; don't hesitate to contact us today at 412.319.7524 or via email at info@pghsw.com to speak with the experts!

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Housetrends Pittsburgh

Happy Tuesday - Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes' project graces the May/June 2014 issue cover!

http://www.joomag.com/magazine/housetrends-pittsburgh-may-june-2014/0831375001398191076

Friday, April 4, 2014

Clean & Seal Services by Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes

Did you know?

Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes also provides paver Clean and Seal services. Although pavers require very little by way of maintenance, Clean and Seal services will help keep your patio, driveway, walkway, and pool surround areas attractive and welcoming for years to come.

Proper cleaning and sealing is more than a simple pressure wash. Sealing helps protect the surface from spills that are normally hard to clean (oil, tree sap, certain foods/drinks). Sealing will also help further stabilize the joint sand.

There are products on the market that can even add enhanced colors to your current hardscape areas, and there is a sealer for everyone’s taste, from invisible to a high gloss wet look. Bring your pavers back to life with our Clean and Seal services! Contact us at 412.319.7524 or info@pghsw.com to be scheduled!

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

INTERLOCKING PAVERS VS. STAMPED CONCRETE

A question we are asked consistently is how does the cost and durability of pavers compare to stamped concrete? There are many reasons, and we will try to sum it up a little here.

Stamped concrete may achieve a look that is somewhat similar to pavers and look great at first, but poor durability and difficulty in making repairs have a dramatic impact not only on the appearance, but also on the actual cost in the long run. This is not to say, however, that a small area can't do just fine with a stamped concrete pour, and we will accommodate our customer's wishes accordingly. We do recommend, however, (particularly for larger patios, pool surrounds, driveways, steps and walkways), to make the little extra investment in pavers, as it is a more cost-effective choice in the long term. Pavers require little maintenance and look like new for a long time. That’s why the popularity of pavers (also referred to as “paving stones”, "interlocking pavers" and “brick pavers”) continues to increase. The style and color options, easy upkeep, and long-term cost efficiency of installing paving stones are becoming more and more appealing to homeowners, especially here where weather and temperature change are a major factor.

It is almost inevitable that concrete will crack at some point in time. Concrete most often cracks due to the expansion and contraction caused by freezing, thawing, and other changes in the weather as well as very heavy traffic. As these cracks form year after year, it can be difficult to match the color and composition of the original material each time a repair is needed. The alternative to repairing the concrete is to replace the entire structure when the cracks become unbearable. By the time it is broken up, disposed of and re-poured, it will likely ending up costing more per square foot each time you have to do that.

Interlocking pavers solve all of the problems described above. Because they are individual units, the joints between each paver will give with pressure, expansion and contraction, eliminating the cracking inherent to conventional asphalt and concrete pavement, and again, pertinent for our ever-changing weather.

Paving stones are one of the strongest paving materials, rivaled only by brick, and increase their structural capacity over time. However, unlike brick and other paving materials, the paving stones we use come with a lifetime warranty; something you cannot get with concrete. Another advantage of pavers is that if a repair ever does become necessary, pavers are manufactured to be uniform and can therefore easily be replaced without leaving unsightly patches or scars.

Paving stones come in a wide variety of surface finishes, colors and shapes that will complement and enhance the style of any home. Moreover, we can create a variety of laying patterns, further expanding the customization possibilities! Also, unlike concrete, which can take 3 to 5 days before being ready for traffic, paver structures can be used immediately after installation. If a problem should occur due to shifting of the sand base, the structure can easily be repaired by removing individual pavers and then re-installing the same pavers.

Proper installation obviously also makes all the difference. Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes is ICPI Certified and also offers a 5-year guarantee on our own workmanship in addition to the lifetime paver guarantee.

We are sharing a paver style today called Copthorne from Unilock. As you can see, this style then comes in different colors! Which one is your fav?

Monday, March 3, 2014

Pittsburgh Home and Garden Show Event - March 7 through March 16

We are preparing an incredible display at the Pittsburgh Home and Garden Show this year; we will be hosting a quad area and feel confident you will be wowed!!! Come and visit us at booth #531 on the bottom floor! Go to www.pghhome.com to print discount attendance tickets and for more information on location, parking, fees, etc.!

Monday, February 17, 2014

In the Trib!

Happy Monday! Read the latest about Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes, LLC, Pittsburgh Professional Pools, The Fireplace and Patioplace and Prime 1 Builders from the Trib at http://triblive.com/lifestyles/homegarden/5540325-74/contractors-alliance-job#axzz2tbiGzwFE.

Monday, February 10, 2014

Before You Move, Consider This!

You have several choices when you realize there’s something about your house is not working for you any longer: 1. Move 2. Do nothing 3. Make changes

Before you do anything, first determine why the house is a problem for you. Perhaps you need a bigger home. Or, maybe you feel you need to downsize. Or, maybe you just hate it and want a change! Regardless of the reasons, many things can be done to make changes to your existing home to better suit your needs.

Before you hang that for-sale sign, consider a few things. If your house suddenly seems too big because your children have grown up and moved away, or too small because you’re adding to your young family, you might be able to redesign the space you have instead of moving to a new one. A small addition and/or redesign of your inside structure and/or extension of your outside can change the entire home without moving. How about adding on a nursery, playroom or mother-in-law suite if you need more room for more people? Or, if you have too much room, you might rethink how you use the ones on the main floor. A little-used formal dining room can become a first-floor bedroom, for example, and an empty child’s room can have new life as a craft room or upstairs laundry room. Base your decision about where to live on lifestyle. Know how you want to live in your house before moving from one to another.

If you are still thinking about moving, though, consider how your home might look to potential buyers. The things you don’t like very likely will turn others off as well. As you fix up your home to ready it for sale, you might also find that the newly renovated space works could work well enough for you that you don’t have to move after all.

Doing nothing is always an option, especially when money is tight. Yet, if you don’t occasionally upgrade and update your home, you can diminish its value. Even if you have no plans to move and sell your home now, your plans might change. Keeping your home in good shape—so it looks nice, operates well and runs efficiently—will make living in it more comfortable and convenient, and can save you the expense and time it will take to do it all at once if you ever decide to put it on the market.

Simple redecorating can solve some of your problems. You can replace the drapes and other window treatments; choose a different paint color and freshen up the walls; and switch dirty, old cabinet handles and drawer pulls with stylish new ones, leaving your room looking updated and cared for.

If your budget can stand it, you can change almost anything in your home to make it suit your lifestyle better. Not enough closets? Knock down a non-load-bearing wall and create a giant, walk-in closet from a spare bedroom. Feel isolated from the family while you’re cooking in your closed-in kitchen and everyone else has congregated in the family room? Open up the space so the family room becomes part of the kitchen and the cook can be part of the group, even while stirring at the stove. Having trouble getting into the shower because it’s part of a bathtub that you never use? Remove the bathtub and fashion a roomy, stand-alone shower in the space.

It costs little, if anything, to bounce some ideas around with an architect, a landscape architect or remodeling contractor who can tell you what’s possible within your budget, offer solutions you hadn’t thought of and help you figure out how to re-create your house’s layout on the inside or out so it feels a lot more like home.

Even a simple change in landscaping boosts your curb appeal and welcome to your home!



Thursday, February 6, 2014

First National Cover

Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes is very excited to grace the cover of the February issue of Total Landscape Care magazine! Article to follow soon!

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Think Spring!

With outdoor living space construction on the rise, late winter is an excellent time to start thinking ahead!

Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes, LLC, founded in 1982, is known as one of the top outdoor living space contractors in the area. With a reputation of performance, quality, and safety, we have seen many changes in our industry over the past 27 years. As our challenges are ever-changing, our scope of work has changed, too. Our company's scope of work has grown to include many functions of a general contractor, and we specialize in outdoor living spaces which includes hardscapes, waterscapes, landscapes, poolscapes, and additions to the home inside and out.

Outdoor living spaces can include needs for many different contracting specialists. As a homeowner, you want to get the most with the least cost. Therefore, it is more efficient to have fewer contractors working on the same project. Our reputation and our relationship with home and business owners and past customers have helped PSW evolve into the general contracting part of this specialized industry. We have the knowledge and experience plus a tremendous network of subcontractors with whom we have worked side-by-side for years. We know each contractor's area of expertise and use this knowledge to be the most competitive and efficient for budget and schedules. Our commitment to craftsmanship, budget-controlled pricing, and on-time delivery ensures a quality construction project as well as a satisfied owner.

Due to heavy customer demand for total home projects, we have joined forces with Prime 1 Builders and Professional Pools! With over 30 years experience in construction services, Prime 1 Builders specializes in remodeling and additions and distinctive kitchen and baths designs. Professional Pools has been working with us for many years providing customized pool designs and installation for many of our happy customers! Our long-time friends at the The Fireplace and Patioplace continue to provide our clients with the outdoor kitchen appliances and furniture of their dreams! Thinking about building your dream backyard escape for the spring? Contact us to schedule your consultation: 412.319.7524 or info@pghsw.com.

We don’t just build projects, we develop long-standing relationships. Time and again, our expertise and proven design-build approach have helped our clients achieve their living space dreams. No matter the size, every project is given our full and complete attention. You can trust Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes because we stand behind what we build your home or business deserves nothing less.

Looking for inspiration? Check us out on Houzz.com or on our website at www.pghsw.com!

Friday, January 24, 2014

Seeking Landscape / Hardscape Foreman and Installers

Join Our Growing Team!

Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes is a growing company and seeking candidates for the positions of PROJECT INSTALLERS, EQUIPMENT OPERATORS and FOREMEN!

We specialize in innovative projects such as outdoor rooms including kitchens, fireplaces, patios, driveways, ponds, waterfalls, pools, landscaping, excavation and much more. We separate ourselves from other construction companies by our professionalism, experience, organization, and educational systems for our employees. Our employees' compensation is based on experience and performance. We also offer medical benefits, retirement plans, paid vacation, end of year bonuses, and more.

We are looking for individuals who have experience in the landscape and/or hardscape construction field. Candidates for ALL of the positions must:

• Have a valid PA driver's license and own transportation to and from work
• Be physically fit, no existing medical problems, and able to lift 85 lbs. continuously
• Possess a positive attitude
• Be punctual, reliable, and shows initiative
• Be drug free - *Candidates must also agree to be subject to random drug tests.
• Have the ability to work 6am - 5pm M-F, and Saturdays when needed
• Must follow and enforce the Company Policies and Operations standards on a daily basis
• Aggressively display initiative to learn new skills and abilities

The individual positions further require:

PROJECT INSTALLER
• Familiar with tool identification and use
• Ability to read and layout 3D plans (a plus)
• Ability to install hardscape tasks such as; paver and wall installations done to ICPI and NCMA guidelines on a daily basis.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment used on the job: dump truck, skid steer, excavator, trencher, tampers, carpentry tools and hand tools
• Daily communication with Project Foreman
• Responsible for paper work such as time cards and receipts

FOREMAN
• Oversee installation of projects, ability to train others, and exercise positive leadership skills
• Full participation in field installations along field installers
• Delegate daily tasks to field crew
• Common plant identification
• Ability to read and layout 3D plans
• Responsible for landscape tasks such as; planting, seeding, topsoil applications, mulching and pruning
• Responsible for hardscape tasks such as; paver and wall installations done to ICPI and NCMA guidelines
• Must understand how to run a project from beginning to completion with limited warranty issues
• Ability to operate heavy equipment used on the job: dump truck, skid steer, excavator, trencher, tampers, carpentry tools and hand tools
• Daily communication with Project Manager, subcontractors and customers
• Responsible for paperwork such as job completion sheets, periodic crew evaluations, receipts, etc.
• Be able to direct vendors with equipment/material deliveries and/or be responsible for picking up equipment/materials for jobs

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
• Truck driving CDL class A or B along with machine operating experience / dump truck, skid steers, mini excavators
• Hauling equipment to and from job sites with 5 ton or 10 ton trucks
• Willingness to abide by all DOT regulations
• Regular equipment maintenance
• Hauling of aggregates and raw materials as needed
• Daily operation of skid steers and mini excavators on job sites
• Operation of surveying equipment
• Delegation of workers participating on site if needed
• Full participation on daily project installations when required
• Willingness to follow daily tasks delegated by foreman
• Ability to operate heavy equipment used on the job: dump truck, skid steer, excavator, tampers, carpentry tools and hand tools
• Daily Communication with Project Foreman or Project Manager
• Responsible for paper work such as: time cards and receipts

HOW TO APPLY

Compile a resume which includes work history including dates, employer addresses, skills, responsibilities, your contact information. Either on your resume or separately within the email, include 3 EMPLOYER references (no personal references or family members).

Send all information to info@pghsw.com. If you don't have a resume, include all the information you can in an email, or call us at 412.319.7524!

We are one of the best because we only work with the best. If you are not serious about this position or not qualified, you will not sustain your position on our team. You may want to visit our website to see our work and learn more history on our company at www.pghsw.com.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Spring Consultations


Spring is Coming - slowly but surely! Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes, LLC is now scheduling consultations for spring projects. Looking for inspiration? Check us out on Houzz or on our website at www.pghsw.com. Contact us to schedule at 412.319.7524 or email us at info@pghsw.com!

Thursday, January 16, 2014

National Radon Action Month

January is National Radon Action Month. You can’t see, smell, or taste radon, but it could be present at a dangerous level in your home. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in America and claims the lives of about 21,000 Americans each year. In fact, the EPA and the U.S. Surgeon General urge all Americans to protect their health by testing their homes, schools, and other buildings for radon. Exposure to radon is a preventable health risk, and testing radon levels in your home can help prevent unnecessary exposure. If a high radon level is detected in your home, you can take steps to fix the problem to protect yourself and your family. Read more here: http://www.epa.gov/radon/nram/public.html

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Attention Job Seekers

Join Our Growing Team!

Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes is a growing company and seeking candidates for the positions of PROJECT INSTALLERS, EQUIPMENT OPERATORS and FOREMEN!

We specialize in innovative projects such as outdoor rooms including kitchens, fireplaces, patios, driveways, ponds, waterfalls, pools, landscaping, excavation and much more. We separate ourselves from other construction companies by our professionalism, experience, organization, and educational systems for our employees. Our employees' compensation is based on experience and performance. We also offer medical benefits, retirement plans, paid vacation, end of year bonuses, and more.

We are looking for individuals who have experience in the landscape and/or hardscape construction field. Candidates for ALL of the positions must:

• Have a valid PA driver's license and own transportation to and from work
• Be physically fit, no existing medical problems, and able to lift 85 lbs. continuously
• Possess a positive attitude
• Be punctual, reliable, and shows initiative
• Be drug free - *Candidates must also agree to be subject to random drug tests.
• Have the ability to work 6am - 5pm M-F, and Saturdays when needed
• Must follow and enforce the Company Policies and Operations standards on a daily basis
• Aggressively display initiative to learn new skills and abilities

The individual positions further require:

PROJECT INSTALLER

• Familiar with tool identification and use
• Ability to read and layout 3D plans (a plus)
• Ability to install hardscape tasks such as; paver and wall installations done to ICPI and NCMA guidelines on a daily basis.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment used on the job: dump truck, skid steer, excavator, trencher, tampers, carpentry tools and hand tools
• Daily communication with Project Foreman
• Responsible for paper work such as time cards and receipts

FOREMAN

• Oversee installation of projects, ability to train others, and exercise positive leadership skills
• Full participation in field installations along field installers
• Delegate daily tasks to field crew
• Common plant identification
• Ability to read and layout 3D plans
• Responsible for landscape tasks such as; planting, seeding, topsoil applications, mulching and pruning
• Responsible for hardscape tasks such as; paver and wall installations done to ICPI and NCMA guidelines
• Must understand how to run a project from beginning to completion with limited warranty issues
• Ability to operate heavy equipment used on the job: dump truck, skid steer, excavator, trencher, tampers, carpentry tools and hand tools
• Daily communication with Project Manager, subcontractors and customers
• Responsible for paperwork such as job completion sheets, periodic crew evaluations, receipts, etc.
• Be able to direct vendors with equipment/material deliveries and/or be responsible for picking up equipment/materials for jobs

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
• Truck driving CDL class A or B along with machine operating experience / dump truck, skid steers, mini excavators
• Hauling equipment to and from job sites with 5 ton or 10 ton trucks
• Willingness to abide by all DOT regulations
• Regular equipment maintenance
• Hauling of aggregates and raw materials as needed
• Daily operation of skid steers and mini excavators on job sites
• Operation of surveying equipment
• Delegation of workers participating on site if needed
• Full participation on daily project installations when required
• Willingness to follow daily tasks delegated by foreman
• Ability to operate heavy equipment used on the job: dump truck, skid steer, excavator, tampers, carpentry tools and hand tools
• Daily Communication with Project Foreman or Project Manager
• Responsible for paper work such as: time cards and receipts

STEPS TO APPLY - PLEASE FOLLOW CAREFULLY

Compile a resume which includes work history including dates, employer addresses, skills, responsibilities, your contact information. If you cannot submit a resume, please contact us at 412.319.7524.

Either on your resume or separately within the same email with your resume, include 3 EMPLOYER references (no personal references or family members). The reference need to include the person's name, the company name, their title, and their telephone number and/or email address.

In the subject line of your email, include the position you are interested in.

Send all information to info@pghsw.com (or call as mentioned above).

We are one of the best because we only work with the best. If you are not serious about this position or not qualified, you will not sustain your position on our team. You may want to visit our website to see our work and learn more history on our company at www.pghsw.com.

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Water Damage

Melting snow, rain and groundwater accumulate in your yard and cause soil erosion and water damage to the foundation of your home as well as the outside of the home such as retaining walls, patios and walkways. Furthermore, it can drown your plants and flowers destroying your landscape investment. As the soil around your home begins to unfreeze, if there are cracks in your foundation at all, then the water will most likely start seeping through and cause problems. If excess water is making your yard marshy or soggy or is flooding your basement, you may need to install a drainage system to help avoid further damage. When protecting the value of your property from water damage, your goal is to capture excess water, move it away from the puddling area, and then disperse or store it in a safe manner. You may need to install a drainage system for your property to keep your home dry and protected and your property safe in early spring. If you do not address water drainage issues early on, you expose yourself to property damage, reduced functionality of your yard, health issues, and it can cost you thousands later - up to 2 to 5 times more than the cost of solving the drainage problem in the first place. Contact Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes for more information.

Monday, January 13, 2014

Driveways

Every time the snow melts, you may be seeing new problems with your existing driveway. Now is the time to start thinking of your options. Today, there many. Pavers vs. concrete - what is the difference? Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes recommends concrete pavers as the products do hold a lifetime guarantee and are a perfect choice for Pittsburgh's changing weather. Surfaces built from pavers are resistant to the freeze-thaw cycle, as they are designed to shift naturally preventing cracking and breaking. Pavers are much more durable as they hold more pounds per square inch than concrete or asphalt. Initially, the cost is more; over time, it is well worth the investment. However, concrete options are increasing. Occasionally, we understand that a client's budget needs or matching existing structures will call for concrete services such as poured, exposed, aggregate and/or stamped. Concrete, today, does allow an impressive range of colors and designs that makes it versatile for use around your home and is a great alternative to our concrete pavers, particularly for smaller projects and/or areas. Not sure what to do or what product is best for you? Contact the professionals at Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes to set up a consultation regarding your needs!

Thursday, January 9, 2014

Thoughts About Landscaping?...

The last thing on your mind might be landscaping in January. BUT, winter/late winter is a great time to start making your spring plans! • Take a walk around your property (when it's not 30 below...) Make note of some areas you might want to add more everygreen/winter bushes - color to pop in the winter time. • Make a plan of what you want to replace, move or may want to add for the spring. Perhaps you've seen some new bushes or plants that you like and think might be a great addition to your landscape. • Check your walls, fences and patio - make note of anything that may need looked at in the spring. • How does the drainage system seem to be working with the snow laying and then melting? And don't forget to give your bushes a quick brush off each time it snows! And no worries, better weather ahead!

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Before and After Slideshow...What do you think?

DE-ICING TIPS

If you overdo de-icing, it can cause damage to your pavers and concrete driveways, walkways, patios and steps. Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes suggests using calcium chloride or magnesium chloride as ice melters, as it's the safest for pavers, concrete and asphalt --- and the least damaging. (You can always lay out sand or kitty litter, as it is safe for surfaces and your animals!) 

If you do use rock salt, try to rinse it off as soon as possible and not leave it sit on the area. 

Brrrrrr! Be safe all!

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Take Care of Your Bushes - Quick Winter Tip

When it snows, it is a good idea to not only shovel or blow off the snow from your steps, driveways and sidewalks, but also your trees, shrubs and bushes! Take a shovel, broom, snowblower or simply put on a pair of gloves, and try to knock as much snow off as you can. The weight of the snow can snap branches or cause trees and shrubs to topple over, leaving the roots exposed! Yikes! 

Friday, January 3, 2014

Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes, LLC - Seeking Professionals

Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes is a landscape design / build company of over 30 years. We are a growing company and seeking candidates for the positions of Project Installer, Equipment Operator, Foreman and Project Manager. Below are job descriptions.

PSW is a premier company specializing in innovative projects such as outdoor rooms including kitchens, fireplaces, patios, driveways, ponds, waterfalls, pools, landscaping, excavation and much more. We separate ourselves from other construction companies by our professionalism, experience, organization, and educational systems for our employees. 

Our employees' compensation is based on experience and performance. We also offer medical benefits, retirement plans, paid vacation, end of year bonuses, and more.

We are seeking individuals who have experience in the landscape/hardscape construction field: 

Candidates for ***Project Installer must possess the minimum requirements below: 
  • At least 3 years experience in the landscape/hardscape construction field
  • Valid PA driver's license and own transportation to and from work
  • Physically fit, no existing medical problems, and able to lift 85 lbs. continuously
  •  Positive attitude
  • Punctual, reliable, and shows initiative
  • Drug free - *Candidates must also agree to be subject to random drug tests
  • Ability to work 6am - 5pm M-F, and Saturdays when needed 
The position further requires:

  • Follow and enforce the Company Policies and Operations standards on a daily basis with a positive attitude
  • Be familiar with tool identification and use
  • Have the ability to read and layout 3D plans
  • Have the ability to install hardscape tasks such as paver and wall installations done to ICPI and NCMA guidelines on a daily basis.
  • Be able to operate heavy equipment used on the job:  dump truck, skid steer, excavator, trencher, tampers, carpentry tools and hand tools
  • Communicate daily with Project Foreman
  • Be responsible for paper work such as time cards and receipts
  • Aggressively display initiative to learn new skills and abilities
Candidates for **Equipment Operator must possess the minimum requirements below: 
  •  At least 5 years experience driving CDL class dump truck, skid steers, and mini excavators   
  • Valid PA driver's license and own transportation to and from work
  • Physically fit, no existing medical problems, and able to lift 85 lbs. continuously
  • Positive attitude
  • Punctual, reliable, and shows initiative
  • Drug free - *Candidates must also agree to be subject to random drug tests.
  •  Ability to work 6am - 5pm M-F and Saturdays when needed 
The position further requires:

  • Must follow and enforce the Company Policies and Operations standards on a daily basis with a positive attitude
  • Hauling equipment to and from job sites with 5 ton or 10 ton trucks
  • Willingness to abide by all DOT regulations
  • Regular equipment maintenance
  • Hauling of aggregates and raw materials as needed
  • Daily operation of skid steers and mini excavators on job sites
  • Operation of surveying equipment
  • Delegation of workers participating on site if needed
  • Full participation on daily project installations when required
  • Willingness to follow daily tasks delegated by foreman
  • Ability to operate heavy equipment used on the job:  dump truck, skid steer, excavator, tampers, carpentry tools and hand tools
  • Daily Communication with Project Foreman or Project Manager
  • Responsible for paper work such as: time cards and receipts
  • Aggressively displaying initiative to learn new skills and abilities
Candidates for **Foreman position must possess the minimum requirements below: 
  • At least 5 years experience in the landscape/hardscape construction field
  • Valid PA driver's license and own transportation to and from work
  • Physically fit, no existing medical problems, and able to lift 85 lbs. continuously
  • Positive attitude
  • Punctual, reliable, and shows initiative
  • Drug free - *Candidates must also agree to be subject to random drug tests.
  • Ability to work 6am - 5pm M-F, and Saturdays when needed 
The position further requires:

  • Must follow and enforce the Company Policies and Operations standards on a daily basis with a positive attitude
  • Overseeing installation of projects, ability to train others, and exercise positive leadership skills
  • Full participation in field installations along field installers
  • Delegate daily tasks to field crew
  • Common plant identification
  • Ability to read and layout 3D plans
  • Responsible for softscape tasks such as; planting, seeding, topsoil applications, mulching and pruning
  • Responsible for hardscape tasks such as; paver and wall installations done to ICPI and NCMA guidelines
  • Must understand how to run a project from beginning to completion with limited warranty issues
  • Ability to operate heavy equipment used on the job:  dump truck, skid steer, excavator, trencher, tampers, carpentry tools and hand tools
  • Daily communication with Project Manager, subcontractors and customers
  • Responsible for paperwork such as job completion sheets, periodic crew evaluations, receipts, etc.
  • Be able to direct vendors with equipment/material deliveries and/or be responsible for picking up equipment/materials for jobs
Candidates must possess the minimum requirements below for **Project Manager: 
  •          Valid PA driver's license and own transportation to and from work
  •          Positive attitude, punctual, reliable, and shows initiative
  •          Drug free - *Candidate must also agree to be subject to random drug tests.
  •          Ability to work 6am - 5pm M-F, and Saturdays when required 
The project manager is responsible for project success as defined by project goals and metrics established at the outset of a project. The most suitable candidate will demonstrate the ability to successfully manage all aspects of a sold project, especially the construction process from beginning to end, and will support Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscape's mission of great design, rewarding client experience, and sound business approach. 

Qualifications and General Responsibilities:

  • Must follow and enforce the Company's Policies and Operations Standards on a daily basis with a positive attitude
  • Oversee project coordination from pre-construction, execution, and post-construction follow up following details and outline of Project Manager task list
  • Responsible for completion of product schedule and all follow-up to ensure completion on time between client, vendors and other contractors
  • Makes periodic on-site evaluations and inspections of field crews and equipment
  • Works with administrative staff regarding tasks such as necessary paperwork as dictated throughout PM task list; scheduling of projects, etc.
  • Project Manager will be in constant contact (during working hours) with customers for any concerns or change orders for the project
  • Lead and coordinate the activities of project staff and be accountable for them; provide direction and feedback to help employees succeed on the project and to develop professionally; oversee the field crews to ensure all are following Company Policies and Operations
  • (Optional) Possess in-depth knowledge Sketch Up; may have to turn handwritten designs into 3D designs; may assist designer with plans as well
  • Possess strong understanding of both hardscape and softscape elements and their relationship to one another
  • Understand relationship between design goals and technical constraints and executes accordingly
  • Represent PSW and be responsible for all communications with the client for the duration of the project; understand the client’s organization, key people, sensitivities, issues, expectations, etc.
  • Communicate with PSW senior leaders relative to project status and performance
  • Responsible for administrative tasks such as job completion sheets and collecting receipts from field crew
  • Works with President on operation strategies periodically to improve field production 
Extraordinary Work Conditions:

  • Must maintain regular and reliable attendance at a level acceptable to the company, including the ability to work overtime or weekends as necessary
  • Outdoor work required at job sites in all types of weather conditions as requested
  • Position requires extended work hours and flexibility in scheduling; including evening or weekend hours as needed
If you meet the above criteria and are interested in learning more about our company and the positions offered, please submit a full resume with your salary requirements alone with at least 3 references from previous employers to info@pghsw.com.  Be sure to indicate which position you are interested in.

Keep in mind, we are one of the best because we only work with the best. If you are not serious about this position or not qualified, you will not sustain your position on our team. If a full resume and references are not included or you cannot pass the minimum requirements, you will not be considered for the position.

You may want to visit our web site online to see our work and learn more history on our company at www.pghsw.com.

We look forward to hearing from you!



2013 Housing Excellence Award Winners

2013 Award Winners

New Year Inspiration

Happy New Year to everyone! Since it's so coooollld outside, why not start thinking about the exterior of your home for the upcoming warmer weather? Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes is setting appointments and booking for the spring to build the backyard escape you are dreaming of!

Whether your need is for a makeover to your existing structure or you want to turn your backyard into a full-blown entertainment area for your friends and family, or maybe just want somewhere to relax and catch a breath of fresh air in your own backyard haven -- we can help you! Check out our extensive portfolio of completed projects on Houzz for inspiration...

Pittsburgh Stone and Waterscapes has joined forces with some incredible companies: Prime 1 Builders; Professional Pools; Fireplace & Patioplace; Seward Fence - so we can meet any of your interior or exterior needs: from pergolas and gazebos to pools and hot tubs, to ponds and waterfalls, to interior / exterior remodeling or additions, to outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, hot tubs - to privacy and ornamental fencing - well, the list just goes on and on!!!

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Start thinking, start planning, and get ready to enjoy!