When you’re having a concrete paver patio, walkway, pool deck or fire pit added to your landscape, it’s a good idea to have a trusted and reputable Bay Area landscape designer on your side. Homeowners in Danville, Brentwood, Alameda and other cities usually have a vision and know what they want, but it’s easy to make mistakes and end up with outdoor spaces that aren’t exactly what you imagined. There are lots of landscape designers around the area who specialize in interlocking concrete pavers and hardscapes, but not all are created equal!

Here are the key questions to ask when looking for a pro who will deliver on your expectations.

How much experience do you have? From years in business to credentials and expertise, it’s vital to get an in-depth understanding of the designer’s experience. Learn as much as you can about the landscape designer’s ability in terms of creativity, knowledge of plants, trees and other elements of landscape, etc. You can usually get a good feel of someone’s expertise by having a conversation and asking plenty of questions.

What services does the company offer? If the landscape designer’s services are limited mostly to creating outdoor gardens, trimming trees and other lawn projects pertaining to the “soft” aspects of landscape, their scope may be too narrow for what you’re expecting. Not all designers are capable of designing and installing outdoor fire places, water features, or patios and walkways. If their experience doesn’t highlight these elements, time to move on with your search.

Ask about referrals. This is one of the most important questions you should ask, as nothing reveals the truth better than seeing proof of what a designer has done for other satisfied clients. Check the references, take a look at the company’s portfolio, ask for referrals to clients who have had a project much like the one you’re about to undertake completed.

What is the estimated completion time and budget? Of course weather can always result in delays, but a reputable landscape designer will give you a close time frame in which you can expect your project to be completed, along with a close estimate or quote as to what to expect in terms of price. Ask about hidden fees, be sure you know whether the written quote (which you should absolutely get) is an estimate or the actual total price.

When you’re updating your landscape it’s important to have an expert who can help ensure that what you have envisioned for your outdoor space is what you will enjoy when your project is completed! For all of your Bay Area concrete paver projects, count on The Paver Guys to deliver beyond your expectations.