Landscape FAQs
Is Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape licensed and insured?
Yes. Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape holds a Commonwealth Of Virginia Class A builders license, and is fully insured. We’re happy to provide verification of such documentation upon request.
Who manages my project installation?
Your designer is the lead on all installation, from the first day you meet to discuss the project, through it’s design, to the final walk through. Working closely with the installation foremen on the job your designer will address any questions you might have and address any potential changes or requests.
Is all of your work done in-house?
Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape prides itself on being able to provide a wide range of installation services under one roof. We also have (2) dedicated sub-contractors who work only for Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape or, when needed or asked, your designer will oversee securing and managing an outside contractor if needed for specialty work. An example of this would be situations where air conditioning unit need to be moved. A situation like that calls for an HVAC professional.
Does Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape use day laborers?
Absolutely not. We here at Kingstowne take great pride in our loyal staff. All our employees at your home are on Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape payroll and are either American citizens, legal permanent residents, or part of the H2B work visa program of which we have been a part of since 2005.
How is project scheduling handled?
All projects are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis; as soon as we receive your signed contract with deposit. Once we break ground on your project, we are there until completion. Any weather related delays during your job extends the proposed completion date accordingly, and all other projects on the schedule after yours are moved along the schedule as well. We never leave your job before completion, to go start another one!
If my project requires a county building permit or needs utility locating done (aka. Miss Utility), who handles that?
By law, any contractor must “call before you dig”. So, Kingstowne Lawn and Landscape handles all Miss Utility marking, when necessary, before your project start. We can also look after securing any and all necessary building permits (when required).
I would like to be home the day(s) the project is being installed. Can you assure me that you will be here those days?
We cannot guarantee the schedule will not shift. While we will try to accommodate your working schedule and we always prefer a homeowner be in town and available to assess a project’s progress daily. Choosing to stay home and oversee hourly progress is your choice, but not a necessary one, with capable foreman on-site and your designer managing the job. Please keep in mind that our schedule is entirely dependent on the weather.
If you design and install my landscape, how will I maintain and care for it?
Any designed or installed project by Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape can be maintained or serviced by Kingstowne Lawn & landscape. This includes full landscape plant care, sod or seed, water features, installed lighting systems, wood cleaning or sealing etc.
What can I expect to spend on landscaping for my entire property?
Assuming you’re asking for all key components, hardscape, fencing, drainage, lighting, plant material, etc., a realistic range is 10%-15% of your home’s value. Project costing however is very dynamic so your project price me be higher or lower based on site conditions, access, plant selection, scope of work, materials etc.
We are considering a pond with our new landscape design project. How much maintenance do they require?
There is some maintenance required with a pond. In the spring your pond will require opening, cleaning and periodic filter maintenance. In the fall it is recommended that you cover the pond with netting and put a heater in the pond. To lower maintenance but still enjoy the sight and sound of water within your garden, as your designer about creative re-circulating fountains or ‘waterless’ pond features. These services can all be done by Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape. Please contact us for more information.
Maintenance FAQs
How will I be able to communicate with my account manager once I am a customer?
Your account manager can be reached by calling the office or sending an email. It is preferred that you contact the office first, since our fully staffed office can answer most questions with regard to your account. If needed, your account manager will be notified and will follow up with you.
Should I choose weekly or bi-weekly mowing?
All lawns should be mowed on a weekly basis in the spring and fall when the weather is cooler and there is more precipitation. During the hot summer months of July and August, mowing on a bi-weekly basis is appropriate. All properties with irrigation systems should be mowed on weekly basis. Ideally, only 1/3 of the grass blade should be cut during any mowing. When it is cool or the lawn is being watered, waiting more than one week allows for more than 1/3 of the grass blade to be cut and thatch buildup can occur.
What height do you mow the lawn?
Mowing heights vary during the mowing season, depending on current weather conditions. Lawns are most healthy when mowed at 2 ½ to 3 ¼ inches. To prevent grass from matting over the winter, mowing height can be adjusted to 1 ½ to 2 inches on the last mowing of the season. Mowing at a lower height for the winter also helps to eliminate leaves from matting up in the grass.
Should I request to have the grass clippings bagged?
Grass clippings should not be bagged if the lawn is being mowed properly. Ideally only 1/3 of the grass blade should be cut during any mowing. Clippings contain nitrogen and other nutrients. When returned to the lawn, clippings recycle nutrients in an organic, slow-release form that promotes steady grass growth. Grass clippings break down quickly and also encourage the beneficial earthworms and microorganisms that maintain healthy grass and healthy soil.
Why don’t you offer aeration & overseeding in the spring/summer?
We prefer not to do any type of seeding in the spring/summer. You will have some initial growth if you seed in the spring, but the grass roots are not able to grow deep enough to survive the summer heat and usual drought conditions. If an irrigation system is present, then seeding jobs can be successful if the proper amount of water is applied to the lawn on a weekly basis. Fall is the best time to seed.
Do your crews speak English and can I talk with them if needed?
Yes. Every crew has a foreman and in order for them to have that position, they must speak English and be able to communicate with the customer as needed. If you have a question or concern, it is preferred that you contact the office staff, however. This way, if any changes or modifications are required, they are properly documented in the computer and on all job notes.
Is the contract monthly or yearly?
Our contract is set up on a monthly basis. The bill you receive each month will be for services provided the previous month. We can also set your account up to be billed in equal monthly installments. There is an initial deposit required at the time we set up your account and establish your services. For more information, contact a Kingstowne Lawn & Landscape staff member