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!!!

Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on Linked InPinterestTwitter, or Google +. You can even visit us on YouTube for videos of our work and more!

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