FALL IS HERE TO STAY, and unfortunately so is the pandemic, which means more time spent at home. With the cool, crisp temperatures setting in, it’s the perfect time to extend your living space and spend the extra time at home outside with a new outdoor living area that includes features like an outdoor kitchen and fire pit to keep you warm.

The first thing to check off your list when designing a project is choosing hardscaping materials, and Nyce Crete and Landis Block & Concrete is the one to help you make the best decisions. A third-generation, family-owned business with two locations in Lansdale and Souderton, they are the area’s largest supplier of pavers, brick, stone products, flagstone and bluestone.  

“In this strange year, people have relooked at their home space. Many are looking to give themselves a place to get away without leaving their home. We help people to determine how much they can or cannot do,” says Vice President Jarrod Nyce. “They have time on their hands because of COVID-19. Imagination, space and budget are what can determine the project.”  

Outdoor kitchens made with stone veneer are popular, and from there you can add all the bells and whistles to make it the ideal entertaining space.

“Outdoor kitchens are so much fun and really add to your home,” Nyce says. “Imagine entertaining outside without having to go back into your house. From a basic grill kit to a full-blown kitchen with sink, ice maker and refrigerator, there are so many things that can be done in your own backyard.  

 “Time and time again we are seeing outdoor living spaces getting more like an oasis with waterfalls, sound systems, lighting and even  outdoor TVs. Fire pits and fireplaces help to warm up areas with heat and light.”  

It’s not too soon to think about installing a pool, and Nyce says there are many hardscaping options available for the pool deck. 

 “There are many options for pool areas from stamped concrete to pavers for your pool deck,” he says. “Also, coping can be a fun area to explore different options, such as precast concrete and natural stone. We've also seen a lot of stacked stone being used for the natural look.”  

Nyce says patios are very similar to pool decks with many options for style and effect. “This versatility helps people turn a space into something very special,” he says.  When it comes to retaining walls, Nyce says they are practical and have more than a few uses.

 “Retaining walls sound boring but they’re very useful,” he says. “You can add areas to any project using a retaining wall to flatten out unusable ground. They can also be used for privacy or simple sitting walls.”  

Nyce says Cambridge Pavingstones with ArmorTec have proven to provide quality materials year after year.  

 “They continue to evolve with the times with new products and colors every year,” he says. “Their line of retaining walls has also grown and evolved to adding new colors and styles. They have also maintained a steady lineup of tried and true products that have worked for over 15 years.  

 “We have a large supply of Pennsylvania bluestone and flagstone hearths. Natural stone never goes out of style.”

Belgian Blocks, which are large blocks of stone, are used for many purposes. “They are made of granite and are very tough. They are mostly used for curbs or edging around gardens, but they can also be used for walkways or driveways,” Nyce says.

Nyce says a recent trend he’s been seeing is outdoor ceramic tiles. “These are just like the tile in your bathroom but a much larger format,” he says. “They come in many different colors and styles and are safe for use in outside areas.”

Like most companies, COVID-19 has had an impact on Nyce Crete, but when you’ve been in business for 77 years, you’re accustomed to dealing with various challenges and obstacles. Nyce Crete has adapted during this uncertain time and still offers the highest quality of products and top-notch customer service, giving customers the outdoor experience they dreamed of and can enjoy for years to come.

 “Our family has been able to change and adapt over the years, and we have always stood behind our products,” Nyce says. “We pride ourselves to be a complete resource for any questions that may arise. We also understand our products, keep up with new trends and understand building codes to help people do their project the proper way. We also try our best to be honest, deliver on time and sell quality products that we would use personally. We  treat people the way we would like to be treated.” 

Nyce Crete and Landis Block & Concrete
Souderton, Pa. | (215) 723-5506 | LandisBC.com

Published (and copyrighted) in House & Home, Volume 21, Issue 3 (October 2020). 
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