The Outback Blog

One of the biggest decisions you’ll make about your landscape is which hardscape material to choose for your patio and outdoor areas.

Unlike plantings and furniture, patio materials aren’t easy to change once installed — so it’s a big commitment. Many of our clients ask, “What is the best patio material for my Idaho Falls home?”

The answer? It depends on your style, budget, and how you’ll use the space. Let’s compare pavers vs. natural stone vs. concrete patios so you can decide what fits best with your landscape vision.

At Outback, we get a lot of calls from potential clients asking us about planning a design/build project. Their biggest question is: How long does it take to create a design plan?

We tell them that the actual design/build process doesn’t take as long as they think — even though it can depend on varying factors, such as the project size, grade changes, time of year, etc.

Windbreaks are rows of trees that provide a screen or protection from the wind, as well as blowing sand or dirt. When the wind hits, a windbreak lifts the wind up and over, protecting the property.

And windbreaks can do more than just keep your hair looking good on a windy day. They can also save you as much as 25 percent on your energy bills by filtering, deflecting and slowing wind before it reaches your home. The end result is an insulated area that provides a more comfortable environment—inside and out!

You’ve got your new plants in the ground, your beds are looking great—but there’s one last decision to make: what do you put on top?

Mulch? Rocks? Or maybe just a layer of soil?

Let’s walk through the pros and cons of mulch vs. rock vs. soil for your planter beds and landscaping around the house — so you can make the best call for your yard.

A pergola is one of the best ways to add structure, shade, and style to your outdoor space. Whether you’re designing a backyard hangout, adding shade to your patio, or creating a vine-covered garden retreat, the right pergola can transform your landscape.

But how do you know what type of pergola is best for your home in Idaho? Should it be attached or freestanding? Wood, vinyl, or fiberglass? How much should you budget?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the right size, style, and material for your pergola — and how to create a design that fits your space, lifestyle, and budget.