Hardscape Installation and  Hillside Steps in Waupaca, WI

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Built for Strength, Designed to Last

When your property needs more than plants and grass, hardscaping is the solution that brings structure, functionality, and long-term value. At TLC Lawns & Landscaping LLC, we design and install custom retaining walls, hillside steps, patios, and walkways for properties across Waupaca, WI.

Hardscapes are more than decorative—they solve real problems. From soil retention on steep slopes to increasing accessibility in uneven terrain, our team combines professional design with durable construction to create usable, beautiful spaces.

Whether you’re dealing with a sharp grade, managing water runoff, or simply upgrading your outdoor living space, we bring more than 25 years of hands-on experience to every hardscape project.

What Is Hardscaping?

Hardscaping refers to the non-plant elements of landscaping—such as stone, concrete, brick, and wood—that add structure to your outdoor environment. These features are essential for supporting land, defining spaces, and handling elevation or drainage challenges.

Unlike softscaping, which can change seasonally, hardscapes are permanent installations designed for long-term performance. Our hardscape services include:

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Retaining walls

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Natural stone steps and staircases

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Walkways and pathways

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Garden and patio borders

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Outdoor seating walls

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Grading for drainage and slope control

Each installation is tailored to your landscape and built using high-quality materials suited to Wisconsin’s harsh seasonal cycles.

Retaining Wall Installation


Retaining walls are a critical feature for properties with sloped or unstable land. They hold back soil, prevent erosion, and create flat areas for lawns, patios, or planting beds. But beyond their practical function, a well-built retaining wall adds architectural beauty to your landscape.

At TLC, we build walls that are both functional and attractive. We use:

  • Concrete block

  • Natural stone

  • Decorative brick

  • Timber (in limited, appropriate applications)

Every wall is installed with proper footing, drainage, backfill, and reinforcement. Whether you need a single low wall or a multi-tiered solution, we engineer each one to last for decades.

We also repair and replace failing or leaning walls that were improperly constructed by other contractors.

Hillside Steps and Slope Access


Navigating a steep property doesn’t have to be dangerous or inconvenient. We specialize in designing and installing stone steps, timber stairs, and sloped access paths that make your landscape safer and more usable.

Our hillside solutions include:



  • Natural stone step placement

  • Concrete stair systems

  • Gravel or paver paths with integrated edging

  • Handrail installation when needed

  • Grading and drainage correction beneath steps

Each system is customized to your slope, soil type, and usage. Whether you’re accessing a dock, patio, or driveway, we ensure every step is placed securely and looks natural within the environment.

Patios, Walkways, and Edging


Hardscaping is essential to creating defined outdoor living spaces. We install:

  • Backyard and lakefront patios

  • Walkways that connect entrances, gardens, and driveways

  • Fire pit pads and gathering areas

  • Landscape edging that prevents lawn overgrowth into beds or paths

Using materials like pavers, flagstone, brick, and stamped concrete, we build flatwork that not only looks good but drains properly and stands up to freeze-thaw cycles.

We also address grade transitions to ensure a smooth, safe walk from one space to another.

Grading and Site Prep for Hardscaping


Before any stone is laid or a wall is built, proper grading and site preparation is critical. This step ensures your hardscape is structurally sound and performs well through all seasons.

Our grading services include:

  • Soil compaction

  • Drain tile installation

  • Sub-base preparation

  • Water runoff routing

  • Surface sloping away from structures

Many hardscape failures are due to skipped steps during site prep. At TLC, we believe long-term performance starts from the ground up.

Why Choose TLC Lawns & Landscaping?

Hardscaping is a significant investment. You need a contractor who not only builds beautiful outdoor structures but understands the science of drainage, slope, and seasonal durability. TLC Lawns & Landscaping has been delivering expert hardscape services to Waupaca residents since 1999.

We are known for:

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Solid, code-compliant construction


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Friendly, skilled crews


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Detailed, accurate estimates


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Knowledge of local soils and site conditions


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Custom solutions for complex terrain


Each project is installed with care and built to last—no shortcuts, no guesswork, and no one-size-fits-all packages.

Real Feedback from Waupaca Homeowners

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“Could not be happier with the retaining wall that Tom and his crew did. They answered quickly, came out promptly, and repaired it better than before. Would highly recommend.”

Richard Bastien, Waupaca, WI

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“Thank you for the quick response for snow plowing. I appreciate the service.”

 — C. Hart, Waupaca, WI

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“I called Tom for a quote on getting rid of the humps and valleys and smoothing out our yard. Fast and wonderful service!”

 — Jim Neidert, Waupaca, WI

These reviews reflect our dedication to quality and our ability to solve real property challenges. We never fabricate testimonials—only real client feedback, honestly presented.

FAQs About Hardscapes and Steps

What materials do you recommend for retaining walls? +

We commonly use concrete blocks and natural stone due to their strength, durability, and appearance. We’ll recommend the best option based on your slope, drainage, and design preferences.

How long does a hardscape installation take? +

Most small to medium projects are completed within one to two weeks. Larger, multi-level installations may take longer depending on weather, access, and scope.

Do you offer design consultations? +

Yes. We provide on-site consultations and help plan your layout, materials, and drainage solutions before any work begins.

Can you replace old or damaged retaining walls? +

Absolutely. We specialize in removing and replacing failed or outdated walls with safe, structurally sound solutions that meet modern standards.

Are permits required for hardscaping? +

Permits may be required for large retaining walls, walls near property lines, or installations on lakefront lots. We’ll help you determine what’s needed for your project.

Start Your Hardscape Project Today

TLC Lawns & Landscaping LLC is Waupaca’s experienced contractor for retaining walls, hardscapes, and hillside step installation. Whether you need a new structure or repairs to an existing one, we bring the tools, knowledge, and care to get it done right.

Call us today to schedule your consultation. We’ll walk your property, review your needs, and deliver a custom estimate that reflects your goals and budget.

Contact us today to book your free consultation:

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Business Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM


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Service Area: Waupaca, WI and surrounding lakefront communities