FAQs

  • We are building a new home. At what point should we contact you?

    The sooner we are involved in the construction process, the better. By having us involved early on, we are able to avoid issues that could arise if we were not to be involved until later. These items include foundation backfill compaction near future retaining wall and patio areas, site drainage, grading and future tree locations. This also allows a larger time frame for us to help you realize your future outdoor living and landscape objectives and complete the design process in most cases, before your home is even finished.

  • How much should I expect to spend on landscaping?

    The cost of landscaping is difficult to generalize without site-specific information and the understanding of a project’s objectives. We typically find that most clients projects fall within 10-15% of the cost of their home. However, often times the projects are above or below that average based on the clients objectives and specific site conditions.

  • Is there a warranty on your plant material?

    We offer a one year, one time replacement warranty on all plant material installed by Outdoor Elements beginning on the date of installation. Plant material replacements typically begin around June 1st or when weather conditions allow.

  • Do you give free estimates?

    Yes, we offer free estimates. However, in order for us to accurately estimate your project, we require that a scaled plan be drafted to estimate from. This also allows our clients to have an exact understanding of the scope of work to be completed. All landscape plans remain in our possession until the final proposal is accepted and the scheduling deposit is made.

  • Can we divide our project into phases?

    Absolutely. We work with our clients on a regular basis to develop a master landscape plan that is designed to be completed in anywhere from 2-5 stages while maintaining our clients’ initial budget and a cohesive design throughout.

  • When can you get started on our project, and how long will it take to complete?

    Upon the initial meeting at your home, we will have a general time frame on when we can get started on your project. A more precise date will be confirmed upon acceptance of our proposal and plans. We ask that you please realize this date can be shifted due to weather conditions, project add-ons and/or changes and other unforeseen items. Without project objectives and site specific requirements at hand, the length of a project can vary greatly from one day to 4-6 weeks.

  • How far do you travel to install projects?

    We typically travel within an hour radius of Rock Valley, Iowa. A few cities where we have completed landscaping and hardscape projects in include Hull, Sheldon, Rock Rapids, Sioux Center, Orange City, Le Mars, Spirit Lake, Iowa and Sioux Falls, South Dakota. We definitely welcome project inquiries from cities further than our typical hour radius.