Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about landscape design, construction, costs, timelines, and working with our team.
Pricing and Payment Questions
Landscape project costs vary based on scope, materials, site conditions, and design complexity. Our minimum project investment is $5,000. A standard paver patio typically ranges from $8,000 to $25,000, retaining walls from $5,000 to $30,000 depending on height and length, and comprehensive outdoor living spaces with multiple elements often range from $30,000 to $100,000 or more. We provide detailed, itemized proposals after an on-site consultation so there are no surprises.
Our minimum project investment is $5,000. This ensures we can deliver the level of quality and attention our clients expect. Projects below this threshold are better suited to general landscapers or handyman services. If you are unsure whether your project meets our minimum, please call us at 612-220-0101 and we will let you know.
Our standard payment structure is straightforward: 20% deposit at contract signing to secure your spot on our schedule, 50% at the start of construction, and the remaining balance upon project completion. We also offer financing through Belgard for qualifying projects, which provides flexible payment terms. All payment terms are clearly outlined in your proposal before any commitment is made.
Yes. As a Belgard Authorized Contractor, we can connect you with Belgard's financing program, which offers flexible payment options for qualifying hardscape projects. This allows you to enjoy your new outdoor space while spreading the investment over time. Ask us about current financing terms during your consultation.
Yes. Your initial on-site consultation is complimentary. Charlie will visit your property, walk the space with you, discuss your ideas and goals, and provide initial thoughts on design possibilities and budget ranges. There is no obligation, and this visit helps both of us determine if the project is a good fit.
How We Work
Our process has seven steps: initial consultation, site assessment and measurements, concept design (including 3D renderings for larger projects), design refinement based on your feedback, detailed proposal with itemized pricing, construction, and final walkthrough. The entire process from first meeting to completed project typically takes 4 to 12 weeks depending on complexity and season. See our Process page for the full breakdown.
Absolutely. Every project includes a design phase where you review and approve the plan before any construction begins. For larger projects, we create detailed 3D renderings so you can visualize exactly how the finished project will look from multiple angles. We refine the design based on your feedback until you are completely satisfied before we break ground.
Our core team handles all hardscape construction, grading, and landscape installation. Charlie is personally on-site for every project, working alongside his crew. For specialized work such as electrical for landscape lighting or structural engineering for large retaining walls, we partner with licensed specialists who meet our quality standards. You will always know who is working on your property.
Three things set us apart. First, Charlie is one of only 12 founding members of the Belgard Advisory Council nationally, reflecting the highest tier of hardscape expertise. Second, Charlie is personally on every job site as both designer and builder, not just a salesman who hands the work off. Third, with over 30 years of experience building specifically in Minnesota, we understand the freeze-thaw cycles, soil conditions, and seasonal challenges that affect the longevity of every project.
Products and Material Choices
As a Belgard Authorized Contractor and Advisory Council member, we primarily work with Belgard products, which are among the highest quality pavers manufactured in the United States. Belgard offers a comprehensive range of styles, colors, and textures for patios, walkways, driveways, and walls. We can also work with other manufacturers when a specific look or product line is requested.
Proper base preparation is critical, especially in Minnesota where freeze-thaw cycles can shift poorly installed pavers. We use a compacted aggregate base (typically Class 5 or similar) at a depth appropriate for the application, typically 6 to 8 inches for patios and 10 to 12 inches for driveways. We also install a bedding layer of coarse sand and proper edge restraints. Every layer is machine-compacted to ensure long-term stability.
We work with both manufactured pavers and natural stone. Natural stone options include bluestone, limestone, granite, and Minnesota fieldstone for walls, steps, and accent features. Each material has different characteristics for durability, maintenance, and aesthetics. During your consultation, we can discuss which materials best suit your design goals, budget, and the specific conditions of your property.
As a Belgard Authorized Contractor, qualifying paver installations come with manufacturer-backed warranties on the products themselves. We also stand behind our workmanship. Specific warranty terms vary by project type and materials and are detailed in your proposal. Belgard pavers carry a lifetime limited warranty on structural integrity, and our proper installation practices ensure that warranty remains valid.
Scheduling and Construction
Construction timelines depend on project scope and complexity. A standard patio installation typically takes 3 to 5 days of construction. Retaining wall projects range from 3 to 10 days. Comprehensive outdoor living spaces with multiple elements such as a patio, retaining walls, steps, fire feature, and lighting may take 2 to 4 weeks. Weather delays can extend timelines during Minnesota's spring and fall seasons. Every proposal includes an estimated construction timeline.
Minnesota's construction season runs roughly from mid-April through late November, depending on weather conditions each year. The ideal time to begin the design process is late winter or early spring, so your project can be scheduled for construction in the spring or early summer when conditions are optimal. However, we build through fall and can accommodate projects throughout the season. Booking early ensures the best scheduling availability.
We recommend reaching out 6 to 12 weeks before your desired construction start date. This allows time for the consultation, design development, material ordering, and permitting if needed. During peak season (May through August), our schedule fills up quickly, so earlier is better. If you have a specific completion date in mind, such as before a summer event, let us know during consultation and we will work backward from that date.
Yes. We handle the permitting process for projects that require it. Most patios and landscape installations do not require a permit, but retaining walls over a certain height (typically 4 feet in most municipalities), decks, pergolas, and structures attached to the house typically do. We know the requirements for each city we serve, including Shorewood, Minnetonka, Wayzata, Eden Prairie, and surrounding communities. Permit costs, if applicable, are included in your proposal.
Rain is a normal part of building in Minnesota. Light rain typically does not stop construction, but heavy rain or saturated soil conditions may require a pause to maintain quality standards. Compacting aggregate base on saturated ground, for example, would compromise the long-term stability of the project. We communicate proactively about weather delays and adjust the schedule accordingly. Rain delays do not increase your project cost.
Care and Upkeep
Paver patios are relatively low-maintenance compared to poured concrete. Regular sweeping keeps debris from accumulating in joints. We recommend reapplying polymeric joint sand every 3 to 5 years to prevent weed growth and ant activity. If stains occur, most can be cleaned with a mild detergent and pressure washer. Sealing pavers is optional but can enhance color and provide additional protection. We provide specific care instructions with every completed project.
Yes, when properly designed and installed. All of our retaining walls are built with proper drainage behind the wall (drain tile and granular backfill) to prevent hydrostatic pressure from freeze-thaw cycles. We size the base and geogrid reinforcement for the specific wall height, surcharge loads, and soil conditions at your site. Our NCMA certification ensures we follow industry-standard engineering practices. A properly built retaining wall in Minnesota should last 30 years or more.
Yes, you can use a snowblower on pavers. We recommend using rubber-edged snow removal equipment or setting the blade height slightly above the paver surface to avoid scratching. Avoid metal-edged shovels or plows that could chip paver edges. Deicing salt is safe for most paver products, though we recommend calcium chloride or magnesium chloride over rock salt for better performance at lower temperatures and less potential for surface damage.
Our primary focus is design and construction, but we do follow up after project completion to ensure everything is meeting your expectations. For ongoing landscape maintenance such as lawn care, shrub trimming, or seasonal cleanups, we can recommend trusted partners in the Lake Minnetonka area. If a structural issue arises with our work, contact us and we will address it promptly.
We Are Happy to Help
If you did not find the answer you were looking for, please reach out. We are happy to discuss your specific situation and provide guidance on your project.