Question 1

Do you offer free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every project starts with a free, no-obligation consultation and written estimate. We walk the property with you, listen to how you want to use the space, take measurements and photos, and follow up with a detailed scope and price. Call 206-465-0501 or use the Request a Free Quote form on any page.

Question 2

How do I get started on a landscaping project?

Accepted Answer

Reach out by phone, text, or the quote form with a rough idea of what you want and your timeline. We schedule an on-site visit, discuss design ideas and budget ranges, then prepare a proposal. Once approved, we lock in a start date and order materials.

Question 3

Do you take on small projects or only full backyard builds?

Accepted Answer

We do both. A single paver walkway, a small retaining wall, a planting refresh, or a lighting add-on are all welcome projects alongside full-property designs and multi-phase builds.

Question 4

Do you work with commercial properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Most of our work is high-end residential, but we also handle commercial entryways, office courtyards, multi-family common areas, and HOA landscape improvements in the Greater Seattle area.

Question 5

What should I have ready before our first meeting?

Accepted Answer

Photos or a saved inspiration folder, a rough budget range, a sense of how you want to use the space (entertaining, kids, pets, low maintenance), and any property survey or HOA rules you have. None of it is required, but it speeds up the design.

Question 6

How much does a landscaping project cost in Seattle?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary with size, materials, access, and site conditions. Smaller refreshes such as planting beds, lighting, or a short walkway often land in the low five figures, while full backyard transformations with patios, walls, water features, and lighting are larger investments. We give a firm written price after the site visit so there are no surprises.

Question 7

What drives the price of a paver patio?

Accepted Answer

Square footage, paver or natural stone selection, base depth, drainage requirements, grade changes, retaining walls, steps, and site access all move the number. Tight access that requires hand-hauling material costs more than a yard a machine can reach.

Question 8

How does payment work?

Accepted Answer

We typically collect a deposit to reserve your start date and order materials, progress payments at agreed milestones on larger builds, and a final payment at walkthrough once you are satisfied. Terms are spelled out in your written contract before work begins.

Question 9

Do you offer financing?

Accepted Answer

We do not finance in-house, but many clients use a home equity line or a contractor financing product from their own bank. We are happy to provide the documentation your lender needs.

Question 10

Can we build the project in phases to spread out the cost?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, and it is a smart approach. We design the full property once, then sequence construction so earlier phases never have to be torn out later — for example, grading, drainage, and hardscape first, then planting, then lighting and water features.

Question 11

Does landscaping increase home value?

Accepted Answer

Quality landscaping is one of the most visible improvements a home can have. Well-built hardscapes, mature planting, and lighting improve curb appeal and the usable square footage of a property, which appraisers and buyers in the Seattle market notice.

Question 12

Is design included or is it a separate fee?

Accepted Answer

For most projects we build in the design work as part of the installation. Complex properties that need extensive drawings, grading plans, or multiple concept revisions may carry a design fee, which we disclose up front and often credit toward construction.

Question 13

Can I make changes to the design once we start?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Small adjustments during construction are normal and we talk them through on site. Changes that affect materials, scope, or schedule are documented as a written change order so the price stays transparent.

Question 14

What design styles do you work in?

Accepted Answer

Pacific Northwest natural, modern minimal, traditional formal, Japanese-inspired, and mixed contemporary. We lean on natural stone, native and adapted planting, and clean lines that suit Seattle architecture and rainfall.

Question 15

Do you provide drawings or renderings?

Accepted Answer

We provide scaled layout plans and material samples on most projects, and 3D visualizations on larger builds where seeing the space helps you decide. The goal is that nothing about the finished yard surprises you.

Question 16

Do landscaping projects need permits in Seattle?

Accepted Answer

Many do not, but retaining walls over a certain height, structures with footings, significant grading, work in critical or steep-slope areas, and some drainage tie-ins do require permits. We identify permit needs during design and handle the process where required.

Question 17

Can you work with HOA design requirements?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We regularly prepare the plant lists, material specs, and drawings HOA architectural review boards ask for, and we adjust the plan to meet setback, height, and material rules.

Question 18

Should I choose pavers or poured concrete?

Accepted Answer

Pavers flex with our freeze-thaw and settling soils, can be lifted and reset if a utility needs access, and offer far more pattern and color options. Poured concrete is lower cost per square foot but cracks over time and is difficult to repair invisibly. For most Seattle patios we recommend pavers or natural stone.

Question 19

Do you install natural stone?

Accepted Answer

Natural stone is a signature of our work — flagstone patios, basalt columns, granite steppers, dry-stack and mortared stone walls, and boulder placement. Every piece is hand-fit rather than cut to a repeating pattern.

Question 20

How do you keep a patio from settling or puddling?

Accepted Answer

Correct base preparation. We excavate to proper depth, compact a crushed rock base in lifts, set slope away from the house, and add drainage such as French drains, channel drains, or catch basins where the site needs it. Base work is the part nobody sees and the part that determines lifespan.

Question 21

Do you build retaining walls on slopes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Seattle lots are rarely flat, so we build engineered block, natural stone, and timber retaining walls with proper drainage rock, filter fabric, and backfill. Taller walls may require an engineer's stamp and a permit, which we coordinate.

Question 22

How long does a paver patio last?

Accepted Answer

A properly built paver patio lasts decades. Pavers themselves outlive the base, so the quality of excavation, compaction, and edge restraint is what determines whether you get 10 years or 40.

Question 23

Can you build outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and seat walls?

Accepted Answer

Yes — built-in grills and counters, gas and wood-burning fire pits, fireplaces, pizza ovens, seat walls, and pergola-covered dining areas are all part of our hardscape work.

Question 24

What plants do best in the Seattle climate?

Accepted Answer

Evergreens and structural conifers, Japanese maples, hydrangea, rhododendron, sword fern, hellebore, heuchera, ornamental grasses, and native selections like salal and Oregon grape all thrive in our wet winters and dry late summers. We combine year-round structure with seasonal color.

Question 25

Can you design a low-maintenance yard?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Low maintenance comes from good bones: right plant in the right place, generous hardscape and gravel areas, drip irrigation, quality edging, and mulch depth that suppresses weeds. We can design a yard that looks intentional with only a few hours of care each month.

Question 26

When is the best time to plant in the Pacific Northwest?

Accepted Answer

Fall and early spring are ideal because roots establish while soil is moist and temperatures are mild. That said, with proper irrigation we plant successfully year-round in the Seattle area.

Question 27

Do you install sod and new lawns?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We grade, amend soil, install irrigation, and lay sod or seed depending on the site. We will also tell you honestly when a shady, root-filled area would be better as planting beds or hardscape than struggling lawn.

Question 28

My yard stays soggy all winter. Can that be fixed?

Accepted Answer

Usually yes. Soggy yards come from compacted clay, poor grading, and roof or driveway runoff with nowhere to go. The fix is a combination of regrading, French drains or dry wells, soil amendment, and plant selection that tolerates wet feet.

Question 29

Can you design around deer, dogs, or kids?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We use deer-resistant plant palettes in areas like Sammamish and North Bend, durable ground planes and pet-safe surfaces for dogs, and open sight lines plus soft surfaces for families with young children.

Question 30

What kinds of water features do you build?

Accepted Answer

Pondless waterfalls, natural stone streams, koi and ecosystem ponds, basalt column and urn bubblers, and modern spillway basins. Each is built with proper liner, pump sizing, filtration, and access for maintenance.

Question 31

How much maintenance does a water feature need?

Accepted Answer

A pondless waterfall or bubbler needs very little — top off water in summer, rinse the pump screen a few times a year, and a seasonal cleanout. Koi ponds need more attention because of fish load and filtration, and we walk you through the routine at handover.

Question 32

Do water features run in winter?

Accepted Answer

Many of ours do — moving water resists freezing and a winter waterfall is beautiful. If you prefer, we show you how to shut down and drain the feature safely for the cold months.

Question 33

Why add landscape lighting?

Accepted Answer

Lighting doubles the hours you can use a yard, makes stairs and paths safe, deters intruders, and highlights the trees and stonework you paid for. In Seattle's dark winters it is often the highest-impact dollar in the whole project.

Question 34

What type of landscape lighting do you install?

Accepted Answer

Low-voltage LED systems with brass and copper fixtures — path lights, uplights on specimen trees, wall grazing, step and hardscape lights, and underwater lighting in water features. Low voltage is safe, energy efficient, and easy to expand later.

Question 35

Can I control the lights from my phone?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can install smart transformers and controllers so you can set schedules, zones, and dimming from an app, or keep it simple with an astronomic timer that follows sunset automatically.

Question 36

Should I build a cedar or composite deck?

Accepted Answer

Cedar is beautiful, cooler underfoot, and repairable, but needs cleaning and sealing every couple of years in our climate. Composite costs more up front and needs almost no upkeep. We build both and help you weigh appearance against maintenance.

Question 37

Do you build covered pavilions and pergolas?

Accepted Answer

Yes — custom pavilions, pergolas, and covered outdoor rooms with proper footings, roofing, and optional heaters, fans, and lighting so the space works in Seattle rain.

Question 38

What kind of fences do you build?

Accepted Answer

Custom cedar privacy fences, horizontal slat modern fences, picket and garden fences, gates with quality hardware, and screening panels. We set posts in concrete with proper drainage so they stay plumb.

Question 39

Do you do custom garden carpentry?

Accepted Answer

Yes — raised planter beds, benches, trellises, arbors, screens, sheds, and trim work built to match the rest of the property.

Question 40

Do I really need irrigation in rainy Seattle?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for new planting and lawns. Our summers are dry for weeks at a time, and new plants fail without consistent water. A well-zoned system with drip in beds and rotors in lawn uses less water than hand-watering.

Question 41

Do you winterize irrigation systems?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We blow out lines before the first hard freeze and start systems back up in spring with a full head-by-head check and controller programming.

Question 42

Is artificial turf a good option here?

Accepted Answer

It works well for shaded areas where grass never fills in, dog runs, putting greens, and small yards that get heavy use. Quality installation requires a compacted drainage base, proper infill, and secure edging — that base is why cheap turf jobs fail.

Question 43

How long does a typical project take?

Accepted Answer

A patio or planting refresh is often one to two weeks on site. A full backyard with hardscape, drainage, planting, lighting, and a water feature usually runs three to six weeks depending on scope and weather.

Question 44

How far out are you booking?

Accepted Answer

Lead time varies by season — spring and summer book furthest out. Call as early as you can and we will give you the honest current schedule and reserve the first available window.

Question 45

Do you work through the winter?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Hardscaping, drainage, walls, decks, fences, and lighting all proceed in winter, and it is often the fastest time to get scheduled. Only heavy rain, frozen ground, or snow pauses us.

Question 46

What happens if it rains during my project?

Accepted Answer

We plan for it. Crews keep working through normal Seattle rain and pause only when saturated soil would compromise base compaction or planting. We keep you updated on any schedule shift.

Question 47

Will my yard be unusable during construction?

Accepted Answer

Parts of it, temporarily. We stage materials neatly, protect driveways and existing planting, keep a clear path to the house, and clean the site at the end of every day.

Question 48

Do you offer ongoing maintenance?

Accepted Answer

We focus on design and installation, and we provide a care guide plus seasonal check-ins for the systems we build. For weekly mowing and general upkeep we can recommend trusted local crews.

Question 49

How do I care for pavers and natural stone?

Accepted Answer

Sweep or blow regularly, rinse seasonally, pull the occasional joint weed, and refresh polymeric sand every few years. Sealing is optional and mostly about color enhancement and stain resistance.

Question 50

How do I keep moss off my patio?

Accepted Answer

Moss loves shade and moisture, both of which we have plenty of. Keeping the surface swept, improving airflow by pruning overhanging limbs, and an occasional gentle wash keeps it in check without harsh chemicals.

Question 51

Do you warranty your work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We stand behind our workmanship, and manufacturer warranties apply to products such as pavers, lighting fixtures, and composite decking. Plant material warranty terms are stated in your contract and depend on watering and care after installation.

Question 52

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve Seattle and the greater Puget Sound region, including Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Sammamish, Issaquah, Mercer Island, Renton, Kent, Bothell, Woodinville, Snoqualmie, North Bend, and most other King County cities. See the Areas page for the full list.

Question 53

Do you charge a travel fee for outlying towns?

Accepted Answer

Not for cities within our normal service radius. For projects well outside King County we discuss any mobilization cost up front so it is never a surprise on the invoice.

Question 54

Do you work on the Eastside as well as in Seattle?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A large share of our work is on the Eastside — Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, Sammamish, Issaquah, Snoqualmie, and North Bend — alongside Seattle neighborhoods.

Question 55

Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. GMC Landscapes LLC is a licensed Washington contractor (license GMCLAL*814KM), bonded and insured. We are happy to provide a certificate of insurance for your records or for HOA requirements.

Question 56

How long have you been in business?

Accepted Answer

Owner Elias Ramos has been designing and installing landscapes for over 23 years, running GMC Landscapes here in Seattle. He is on site for the design and throughout construction — you work with the owner, not a salesperson.

Question 57

Do you use subcontractors?

Accepted Answer

Our own crews perform the core landscape, hardscape, and carpentry work. Licensed specialty trades such as electrical or gas connections are brought in where the law requires them, and we coordinate their schedule.

Question 58

Can I see examples of past work or talk to references?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Browse the Projects and Gallery pages for completed builds across the region, and we can connect you with recent clients in your area on request.

Question 59

Can we start with a phone or video consultation if I'm out of town?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For homeowners still planning a move or out of the area, we offer a phone or video walkthrough where you share photos and lot dimensions. We can give rough budget guidance and schedule the on-site visit for when you are ready.

Question 60

What if my inspiration photos are more expensive than my budget?

Accepted Answer

That happens often and it is useful information. We look at what you love about the photos — the mood, the materials, the layout — and find ways to capture it within budget. Phasing, material substitutions, and focusing the spend on the views you actually use gets you the look without the full price.

Question 61

Will you look at a plan or bid I already got from another contractor?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A second opinion is welcome and free. We review existing plans or quotes for value, scope gaps, and constructability, and we are candid about whether something is missing or overpriced.

Question 62

Can you give me a price per square foot for a patio?

Accepted Answer

We can share ranges, but a per-square-foot number is only accurate after material, access, base depth, and edge details are known. A hand-set flagstone patio on a steep slope with steps costs far more per foot than a level paver patio with machine access. We give you a real number after the site visit.

Question 63

How large is the deposit?

Accepted Answer

Deposits are typically a percentage of the project that covers materials and reserves your start date. The exact amount depends on scope and is written in your contract, with the balance tied to milestones so you never pay far ahead of progress.

Question 64

What costs are often missed in cheaper bids?

Accepted Answer

Base preparation and drainage, permits, soil disposal and hauling, edge restraint, irrigation tie-ins, and lighting conduit are the items most often under-specified or omitted in low bids. We itemize all of it so you can compare apples to apples.

Frequently asked questions

Getting started

Pricing & payment

Design process

Hardscaping & patios

Landscaping & planting

Water features & lighting

Decks, fences & carpentry

Irrigation & turf

Timeline & scheduling

Maintenance & care

Service area

Licensing & trust

Still have a question?

Frequently asked questions

Getting started

Do you offer free estimates?+

How do I get started on a landscaping project?+

Do you take on small projects or only full backyard builds?+

Do you work with commercial properties?+

What should I have ready before our first meeting?+

Can we start with a phone or video consultation if I'm out of town?+

What if my inspiration photos are more expensive than my budget?+

Will you look at a plan or bid I already got from another contractor?+

Pricing & payment

How much does a landscaping project cost in Seattle?+

What drives the price of a paver patio?+

How does payment work?+

Do you offer financing?+

Can we build the project in phases to spread out the cost?+

Does landscaping increase home value?+

Can you give me a price per square foot for a patio?+

How large is the deposit?+

What costs are often missed in cheaper bids?+

Design process

Is design included or is it a separate fee?+

Can I make changes to the design once we start?+

What design styles do you work in?+

Do you provide drawings or renderings?+

Do landscaping projects need permits in Seattle?+

Can you work with HOA design requirements?+

My property is on a steep slope. Can you design for it?+

Can you design an accessible or aging-in-place outdoor space?+

Can you design around existing trees, patios, or structures I want to keep?+

How do you create privacy in a small or close lot?+

Hardscaping & patios

Should I choose pavers or poured concrete?+

Do you install natural stone?+

How do you keep a patio from settling or puddling?+

Do you build retaining walls on slopes?+

How long does a paver patio last?+

Can you build outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and seat walls?+

Do you install paver driveways?+

Can you build outdoor steps and ramps on a grade change?+

Can you repair or reset an existing paver patio?+

Landscaping & planting

What plants do best in the Seattle climate?+

Can you design a low-maintenance yard?+

When is the best time to plant in the Pacific Northwest?+

Do you install sod and new lawns?+

My yard stays soggy all winter. Can that be fixed?+

Can you design around deer, dogs, or kids?+

Can you design a garden that looks good all four seasons?+

Do you use native Pacific Northwest plants?+

Can you build a pollinator or wildlife-friendly garden?+

Can you install mature or large specimen plants for instant impact?+

Water features & lighting

What kinds of water features do you build?+

How much maintenance does a water feature need?+

Do water features run in winter?+

Why add landscape lighting?+

What type of landscape lighting do you install?+

Can I control the lights from my phone?+

Do you design and build around swimming pools?+

What is a rain garden and should I consider one?+

Can you repair or upgrade an existing landscape lighting system?+

Do you install holiday or permanent seasonal lighting?+

Decks, fences & carpentry

Should I build a cedar or composite deck?+

Do you build covered pavilions and pergolas?+

What kind of fences do you build?+

Do you do custom garden carpentry?+

What railing options do you offer for decks?+

How tall can my fence be, and do I need a permit?+

Can you build and automate driveway or garden gates?+

Irrigation & turf

Do I really need irrigation in rainy Seattle?+

Do you winterize irrigation systems?+

Is artificial turf a good option here?+

Can you install smart irrigation that adjusts to weather?+

Should I use drip or spray heads in my planting beds?+

Can you repair or tie into my existing irrigation system?+

Timeline & scheduling

How long does a typical project take?+