Plan your outdoor space
A clearer plan for your Central Texas landscape
Start with the problem you want to solve. These checklists help you prepare for a site conversation, compare proposals, and connect individual projects into a yard that works for you.
Discuss your projectSolve water problems before adding finishes
Start with where water enters the property, where it collects, and where it can safely leave. A patio or new planting bed should fit that drainage plan.
- Photograph pooling after rain and note how long it remains.
- Identify downspouts, low spots, existing drains, and neighboring runoff.
- Discuss access, discharge options, and any site-specific approvals before selecting a solution.
Plan the whole yard before building one part
Connect shade, planting, paths, outdoor seating, and the maintenance you want to take on. A clear layout helps compare scope and sequence work.
- Share measurements, photos, a property survey if available, and priorities.
- Identify plants and trees to keep, access constraints, pets, and outdoor activities.
- Ask which drawings, materials, installation steps, and follow-up care are included in the proposal.
Compare patio and walkway options
Choose paving for the way you use the space. Furniture layout, shade, slope, drainage, and access matter alongside the surface finish.
- Mark the actual footprint of seating, a grill, and walking space.
- Discuss base preparation, edge restraint, drainage, and connections to existing surfaces.
- Compare material and labor scope, cleanup, and maintenance requirements in writing.
Build a lower-water landscape with a planting plan
A low-water yard can combine appropriate plants, mulched beds, and useful stone or gravel areas. Match materials to heat, shade, drainage, and how the space will be used.
- Measure sun and shade and identify the plants worth retaining.
- Check current watering rules with the provider listed on your water bill.
- Plan plant establishment and ongoing care; a new landscape still needs attention.
Decide whether to repair or redesign irrigation
Leaks, damaged heads, uneven coverage, and a changed planting layout call for different work. Start by identifying the symptom and the area it affects.
- Record visible leaks, dry areas, controller settings, and recent changes.
- Share the water provider, existing zones, and any available system plan.
- Ask which repairs, tests, controls, and applicable specialist requirements are included.
Define a maintenance visit before comparing prices
Compare like-for-like scopes: mowing, edging, cleanup, beds, treatments, and visit frequency. Property access and terrain can change the work required.
- Separate routine visits from seasonal cleanup and treatments.
- Identify mowable area, gates, slopes, pets, and access instructions.
- Confirm the current service rate, minimum charge, visit frequency, and weather rescheduling arrangements.
Prepare for a useful estimate
Send photos, your property address, the approximate area, and your preferred timing. Identify what must stay, what is not working, and how you would like to use the space. Confirm any permits, specialist trades, material allowances, and ongoing care in the written scope.