The Landscaping Process
We hope this page helps you to understand and prepare for our process and how to get started.
Initial Contact...
When you first call us, we may ask for some basic information.
Examples:
- How did you hear about us?
- What is your budget for your project?
- What is your time frame for your project?
- What is the scope of the work?
- Do you entertain frequently? How much?
- How many years have you lived in your home?
- What is the number of years you plan on staying in your home?
- What is your home's value?
Scheduling your landscaping consultation...
We try to schedule your consultation within a few days after initial contact. If possible, know your schedule and who will be meeting with GoldGlo. Consultation will be scheduled to accomidate all parties. We try to keep appointments between 6 AM and 5 PM weekdays. However we understand this may not always work because of busy schedules; we willtry to be flexible to your busy schedule.
Preparing for your consultation...
Perhaps you have a plot plan. This can be a useful tool and very helpful. Maybe you have pictures and ideas of landscapes that have been inspiring to you. Sharing this can be very helpful in transferring your vision to us.
The consultation...
A typical on-site consultation usually takes 1 to 3 hours in order to properly gather the necessary information. The homeowner may not necessarily need to be present all of the time. We'll gather some important design information, talk about layout and what you envision. As we are doing this on paper, more and more details will begin to be exposed and addressed, and help us to understand what you are looking for.
The design and estimating the landscaping...
95% of landscapes require a design. Some are more complex than others. Design fees are based upon the hours spent working on them. Design fees can range from $100 up to a few thousand dollars. Designs can be a simple hand-drawn sketch to a much more graphic design and may include construction drawings. Gold Glo also offers CAD designs with full-color capabilities.
Permits and engineered landscape design...
It is the homeowners responsibility to contact the home area township or building code officer to check if there are any requirements in your area. Walls over four feet high may need a permit or require engineering. We can help out with this process which usually goes very smoothly.
Presenting your landscaping proposal...
From initial consultation to presentation of your proposal, the process may take 1 - 3 weeks depending on the project and its details. When finished we'll call you and set another appointment usually at our office, where you can also see displays and products which will help you with visualizing and color selection. Seeing the product will help you envision your project.
Scheduling / Starting the Landscaping Job...
We'll give you a tentative start day (usually within a few days to a week) and as we near the tentitive date we'll be able to give you an exact day. If you have a preferred start date or finish date please let us know and we'll do our best to accomodate your schedule. On certain jobs we require a hand-off meeting (usually the day of starting the job). These meetings may include the sales person, production manager, job foreman, and the homeowner.
On the job...
Each construction crew usually consists of a crew leader / laborer and 1 -3 additional laborers each day, depending on the size and type of work being done. We understand the imporantance of efficiency and having the right number of men per crew. The crew leader is in charge of the job and we encourage open communication with the homeowner throughout the construction process.
Most landscape projects require a skid-loader or tractor as well as other tools and equipment. We will do our best to work with our surroundings in a safe and respectful manner. Children and pets should be kept under close observation, especially during working hours.
Dirt and dust is not uncommon, so we recommend that you keep your windows closed during working hours. If the outside of your house gets dirty during construction, we'll clean it. Your lawn may get torn up; however, we can restore your lawn so all you will need to do is keep it watered. All you will need to do is keep it watered and you will have a great yard again. We can also set up irrigation so you wont have to do anything. Our goal is to make it so you won't have a thing to do after we leave, except enjoy.
How long can landscaping take...
No two projects are the same. Though we can tell you that most projects take from a few days to a few weeks. A small pond might take 1 to 2 days. A average pond might take 2 to 4 days. An average patio might take 3 to 7 days. A pool deck, retaining walls, fireplace, and pergola might take 1 to 6 weeks.
We'll give you a specific start date and a projected finish date and won't leave your project until it is finished and you are 100% satisfied.
So what's next? Contact us at 717.692.5240 and we will do our best to help with any questions you may have.
