Articles written by guest contributors

Phil Bahler

3 keys to thriving in hardscaping

By Phil Bahler, Founder of Pave Tool Innovators

If you think you have it all figured out, that’s your first mistake. The secret to success – whether in business or life – is being a lifelong student. After 40 years in the hardscape industry, I’ve learned that growth comes from continually refining your craft, streamlining your processes, and effectively communicating your value.

In the early days (1985), when my brothers and I co-founded Bahler Brothers, we were like many startup businesses – eager, ambitious and a bit scattered. Over time, we discovered 3 fundamental principles that drove our success: Specialization, Systemization and Marketing. These same principles now guide me at Pave Tool Innovators, where I develop tools to help hardscapers work smarter and more efficiently.

1. Specialization: Becoming the best in your niche

When we started out, we tried to do it all – bouncing between different types of projects without mastering any one area. Then we made a game-changing decision: We specialized. Early on, our focus was driveways. We became the best at installing paver driveways, completing project after project with precision.

As the industry evolved, so did we. Homeowners began prioritizing outdoor living spaces, and we pivoted to become specialists in creating elegant, functional backyards. The key takeaway? Mastering a niche not only sets you apart but also builds a reputation that brings clients to you, rather than you chasing them.

2. Systemization: The power of efficiency

One of the most valuable lessons I learned early on was the importance of systemizing work. Without structure, productivity suffers and profit margins shrink. We built our projects like an assembly line, ensuring each crew had a dedicated task: one for excavation and grading, another for wall building, paver crews for screeding, laying, cutting, edging, sweeping and compacting, and a crew to install light landscaping.

Each piece of equipment was assigned to the job where it was needed most, staying in constant use instead of sitting idle. This approach maximized efficiency, minimized downtime and ultimately led to higher profitability. Today, at Pave Tool Innovators, this same mindset drives how I design tools – each one created to streamline tasks and save hardscapers time and effort.

3. Marketing: Selling more than just a product or service

Many business owners overlook marketing, but it’s one of the most powerful tools for growth. At Bahler Brothers, we realized the impact of a great slogan. "Buy your last driveway first" spoke to the durability and quality of our work, making customers confident in their investment. Later, as outdoor living became the focus, we shifted to "Elegant Outdoor Living," reinforcing the beauty and functionality of our projects.

Marketing is more than just advertising – it’s about communicating value. Today, I see this principle play out at Pave Tool, where we “Take the Hard out of Hardscaping®”. Hardscapers aren’t just buying tools; they’re investing in efficiency, precision and an easier workday. A great product is only part of the equation – helping customers understand its value is what drives sales.

Success is about more than business – it’s about quality of life

At the end of the day, success isn’t just measured in revenue. As I always say, success is life after work, and for us at Pave Tool, it’s about making an impact – whether by creating spaces that bring families together or designing tools that make a hardscaper’s job easier.

I challenge every business owner to focus on these 3 key areas: Specialize, Systemize, and Marketing. If you commit to these principles, I guarantee you’ll see greater success – not just in business, but in life.

Phil Bahler founded Pave Tool Innovators in 2006. He is still involved with Bahler Brothers hardscape contractors where he was a co-owner for 33 years. Contact Phil at PB@PaveTool.com or visit PaveTool.com