Every great outdoor space starts with a problem that needs solving.
For John in Woodbury, Minnesota, that problem was a backyard pool area that had seen better days.
The retaining walls were failing, the decking around the pool was undersized, and drainage issues were becoming more than just a nuisance — they were a real risk to the structure.
That’s where Grey Cloud Outdoors came in.
John’s original pool area had retaining walls that were beginning to lean and settle. Water had nowhere good to go, and the narrow concrete deck made the pool feel confined.
Over time, the freeze–thaw cycles Minnesota is known for had taken their toll. The entire space needed a rebuild — not just to look better, but to perform better for years to come.
Using Unilock U-Vision 3D design software, we created a detailed digital model of the project before the first shovel hit the ground.
That allowed John to visualize his new pool deck, stairs, and wall layout in real space — color, texture, and lighting included. Every elevation and detail was reviewed and approved ahead of time, eliminating surprises and ensuring the final product matched the vision exactly.
Seeing your new outdoor space before it’s built is one of the biggest advantages of working with a Unilock Authorized Contractor. It gives homeowners confidence that what they’re getting will be worth every penny.
Once the design was locked in, our team got to work rebuilding the space from the ground up — literally.
We added roughly 400 square feet of new paver pool deck using Unilock premium pavers designed to handle heat, foot traffic, and pool chemicals.
The expanded layout provided more room for lounge chairs and entertaining — all while matching the home’s style and grade.
A custom permeable joint drain was installed through the center of the pool deck to direct surface water away from the pool edge and house foundation.
This subtle but critical feature keeps the area dry, safe, and free from standing water — a must for any Minnesota pool patio.
We replaced the failing block walls with new Unilock segmental retaining walls, engineered for longevity and appearance. Each wall was built with proper drainage and geogrid reinforcement behind it, preventing the same problems from ever returning.
A new set of stairs was constructed to connect the house and pool deck, providing safe access and clean lines that tie the entire space together.
We exclusively used Unilock products for this project because of their proven performance in Minnesota’s climate and their unmatched visual appeal.
The combination of EnduraColor™ surface technology and TitanTec™ strength means the patio will maintain its color and structure for decades — through summer sun, pool water, and winter frost alike.
And every Unilock product we install is backed by a lifetime transferable warranty from the manufacturer.
That’s what we mean when we say: Built for the North. Built for you. Built for life.
Today, John’s backyard feels like an entirely new property.
The pool area is larger, safer, and more functional
Drainage issues are gone
The new Unilock pavers and walls tie seamlessly into the home’s architecture
And the space is ready for decades of use — no settling, no surprises, no headaches
The best part? John got to see it all beforehand through our U-Vision 3D design — and the final result matched it perfectly.
Whether you’re dealing with failing retaining walls, cracked concrete, or just an outdated backyard, we can help you reimagine it with confidence.
Our process makes it simple:
Consultation & Design – We visit your home, assess the site, and create a detailed 3D U-Vision design using Unilock products.
Build It Right – Our team handles excavation, drainage, and installation to the highest industry standards.
Enjoy for Decades – You get a space that’s durable, low-maintenance, and built to handle Minnesota’s toughest seasons.
📍 Woodbury, MN
Built for the North. Built for you. Built for life.