The landscaping idea is tempting; who doesn’t want a contemporary curb or classy built-in outdoor seating?
But let’s admit, landscape construction can be intimidating, especially if you have no idea how the process will unfold.
There are many choices and protocols to go through. Delving into all this unprepared means getting off on the wrong foot.
The following blog provides an in-depth insight into landscape construction services and what to expect if you hire one.
A Comprehensive Guide to Landscape Construction Services
The basic roadmap is to consult, get designs, seal the deal, and start construction. Here’s the process stretched out in detail for you:
✔ Pre-construction
Designing a landscape is equally important as building it. The initial meeting with the landscape architect or contractor will discuss your requirements.
Here are a few questions you can expect:
- What is your primary goal of landscaping?
- What is your budget for the project?
- Are there any specific features you wish to include?
- What style or theme do you prefer?
- Is sustainability a priority for you?
Next, the landscaper will conduct an on-site survey to assess the property — soil quality, slope, vegetation, sunlight and shading, draining, and underground wires/pipes.
The architect will then provide you with a conceptual design. The focus will be on what hardscape and softscape elements to include, their placement, etc.
Once you’ve revised and approved the design, the landscaper will give you a detailed layout. This can be a 3D plan of the future landscape, what materials to use, colour preferences, plant choices, etc.
✔ Construction
If you have a different contractor for landscape construction, inform them about the final designs and materials. This will ensure no gap between the planning and the building phases.
Here are a few things to cover before kicking off the construction process:
- Pay the construction deposit after you sign the contract.
- Finalise the timeline for the entire project considering factors like weather, your availability, etc.
- Prepare construction documentation that will serve as a guide for the installation process as a whole.
- Get permits from local authorities to ensure compliance.
- Finally, the construction will begin in the following phases:
✔ Site Preparation
The workers will clear the area for the job — take down unnecessary features, remove existing vegetation, and placemats to protect other areas from dirt.
✔ Excavation
Next, they will lay the groundwork by installing necessary sub-level equipment. For example, setting up utility lines, fixing the drainage system, and clearing space for features like a swimming pool.
✔ Levelling
The workers will grade and level the land according to the landscape design.
✔ Hardscaping
Non-living or hardscape features are installed right after. For example – water attractions, decks, patios, retaining walls, walkways, lighting, and pools.
✔ Softscaping & Finishing
Living or softscape elements come next — plants, shrubs, flower beds, trimming, turf. This includes wrapping the project, throwing out the debris, and tying the loose ends.
✔ Post-construction
D-day is here, at last!
The project manager/contractor will walk you through the brand-new landscape. You’ll learn to use the newly installed features and care for the space.
Landscape Construction: What No One Tells You
Trenches dug in the ground, debris everywhere — that’s how your outdoor space will be for some time.
Remember, the more beautiful the final look is, the messier the process can be. On that note, let’s go over a few troubles to expect during landscape construction:
✔ Noise
Drills, saws, and construction vehicles. You can picture the rest!
Be extra prepared if you have babies or pets at home. It is better to plan and make suitable arrangements for them.
But don’t worry too much. Early mornings and nights will be peaceful since most landscaping crews work during the daytime.
✔ A Topsy-Turvy Outdoor
As mentioned above, landscape construction involves steps like excavation and sub-level work. That means you’ll see a lot more underground than you usually do.
But that is no damage, but the natural process.
You can ask the project manager to follow the below tips to contain the mess:
- Use construction mats to protect pathways and other non-work areas from soil tracking.
- Cover plants with a plastic sheet or fence to keep them safe and clean.
- Build mulch pathways for workers to use. This will help reduce the on-site messiness.
- Clean equipment regularly to remove excess mud from them that could quickly transfer to clean areas.
- Build temporary storage areas for construction equipment.
✔ Safety Protocols
Prioritising your family’s safety is a must during landscape construction.
The workers are professionally trained folks — they know how to keep themselves safe. Communicate with them about safety protocols, what to expect during every stage, and when to shut the doors.
Keeps kids and pets inside or within safe areas. You can use markings to differentiate such spots. Most importantly, familiarise your family members so that they know the importance of following these measures.
✔ Hold-ups
No matter how well you plan, there will be some delays. That means if it rains, no one can help it.
Plus, getting permits and having on-site inspections can be tedious if the officials are swamped. Even last-minute changes can push the deadline further.
Thus, it’s always better to consider these factors beforehand. Ask the manager to keep you informed on the progress made. Have a margin of 15-20 days in your “personal” timeline, and be understanding.
✔ Frustrated Neighbours
The construction process may be troublesome for your neighbours, too. If not dust, there will be noise complaints and parking issues.
Therefore, consider informing your neighbours about the process and what they should expect.
Bottom Line
Landscaping can be overwhelming, especially for first-timers. It’s still easy to understand designs, while the construction jargon often goes over the head.
The best solution is to sit down with the landscaper and clear all your doubts regarding the project. Do not hesitate — it’s your space, and you must know how it will evolve.
Timely communication will ensure you know the safety protocols or any other measures you must take.
Lastly, don’t forget to expect a splendid transformation to your outdoors that leaves the passersby in awe!
At Landscape Brisbane, we are a team of experienced professionals. We are passionate about our work, creative with the process and put your safety and satisfaction before everything else. To know more about our landscaping services, contact us today!