Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions of Austin Outdoor Solutions.

What is your assurance to quality and service after the sale?

We first listen to what the client wants, adhere to high standards of performance set by years of experience and often exceed our client’s highest expectations. Each project whether is a full installation or if we provide design services only, is executed in a manner ensuring continued success after initial implementation. We offer a complete warranty specs on all our service agreements covering the full range of services we offer.

Are you insured?

Yes, we carry general liablity and worker's compensation for your peace of mind.

Do you guarantee your work?

Yes, every job we do is backed in writing. What's more, we specify up front during the proposal process the details of the warranty information. You'll always know exactly what to expect from us, both during the job and after!

Do you charge for estimates?

There is not a fee for our well presented, written estimates. However, we do have fees in place for consultation* and design* services, both billed at $65 per hour.

Consulation Services - A specific question and answer session, in depth discussion of gardening ideas and problem solving techniques constitutes a consultation. Soil and plant/tree tissue sample gathering for lab analysis is billed at the same rate plus lab costs.
 
Design Services - A simple sketch for a particular project or portion of a project may be included as part of the proposal to convey a particular idea or concept, but in the case of providing a scaled, hand rendering of the designer’s ideas for the property will be billed separately.

How will I know how to take care of my new landscape once you are finished?

Once complete with the installation and upon the final walk through, we will address many of the questions you might have about your landscape in which we will cover watering schedules, proper fertilization (and when) as well as a simple maintenance program for the evergreens as well as perennials. We do offer maintenance programs to prolong the pristine condition of both the landscape and hardscape elements.  

Do you service sprinkler systems?

Yes! Sprinkler systems are a great investment that pay you back with great looking landscaping without all the hassle of lugging around hoses. However they must be maintained in order to work properly. If your system isn't working for you as you intended or your needs have changed as your landsaping needs have changed - we can help. For more FAQs about sprinkler systems, click here.

Do you service outdoor lighting systems?

Yes! Low voltage outdoor lighting systems showcase your landscaping after the sun has set. We service and revise existing systems as well as install new ones.

What areas do you service?

We cover all of the Austin, Texas and surrounding areas including Round Rock, Hutto,  Georgetown, Leander, Dripping Springs, Cedar Park, Oak Hill and more. Please call us to schedule an appointment.

How does the AOS process work if I’m looking for landscape services?

Building a good landscape involves three distinct steps: design; installation; maintenance. Failure to consider any one facet can affect the success of a landscaping project. An extremely well conceived landscape cannot succeed if it is poorly installed, nor can a poorly designed landscape be redeemed by good installation procedures. 

The design process begins with a thorough design analysis, consisting of a site analysis and an analysis of people's needs. Until the needs of the property and the people using it are known, they cannot be met. As a part of the site analysis, the land itself must be studied to determine if alterations are necessary to provide drainage, usable areas, and a more comfortable environment. A general study of these beneficial land features, as well as those requiring alteration is best; they are refined later, as plans are completed.

After all factors surrounding the land and its occupants have been studied, the designer can start to formulate specific design concepts. The property is divided into usable portions for the functions indicated in the design analysis, and necessary terrain alterations are planned. Shade, wind protection, screening, and enclosure can then be provided. At this stage of the design process, it is best to make general choices, not choosing specific materials until all design criteria have been evaluated.

All circulation routes are also considered during this design stage. Again, it is best to determine the general size and shape of sidewalks, drives, patios, and so forth, without specifically determining the surfacing to be used. Aesthetic decisions come later.

After all general determinations have been made about area sizes and shapes, environmental requirements, and circulation routes, the aesthetic design factors can be considered. The design becomes more specific at this point. Choices are made: a trellis or a tree for shade; a wall, fence, hedge, or mass planting for a screen; and so forth. Ground-surface patterns take form as surfacing materials are chosen and lines of demarcation are determined. All elements in the landscape can be tied together effectively in a unified design that is aesthetically pleasing. Textures, colors, and forms are blended together to form a functioning landscape that is pleasant to view. Materials selection climaxes the design process.

The experienced designer will mull the separate parts of the design process over simultaneously as he proceeds. The designer continually shifts his attention from one factor to another, ensuring that the final design will be unified in all phases.

Those ideas that have been conceived in the designer's mind during the design process are recorded on paper in such away that others can read and understand them: this is the landscape plan. The plan must communicate those ideas to the property owner as well as to any potential installer. Maybe most importantly, the landscape designer uses the plan to communicate ideas to himself throughout the design process. Recording the various design concepts on paper during the design process allows the designer to relate one area to another, comparing concepts for compatibility.

What does a landscaping job cost?

Because landscaping work varies so much from job to job, it is impossible to give a specific an answer. One job might involve building a custom retaining wall for a challenging slope, the next might be creating a simple garden space in an existing landscape. Our typical clients spend between $5,000 and $75,000 on their landscapes. And of course some clients projects are smaller and some larger. It all depends on the job and what is required. Austin Outdoor Solutions always provides estimates in writing for your approval before any work is begun.

What does it cost to have my trees trimmed?

Again, the answer here depends on the type and  number of trees, and the complexity of the job. We are happy to give a free on-site estimate for your specific tree-trimming needs. Just contact us to arrange an appointment.

Is there a fee to come out and look at my yard?

Austin Outdoor Solutions does not charge for an initial brief consultation visit. During that visit we can determine your overall needs and develop an appropriate plan.

Are you part of some big national chain?

Austin Outdoor Solutions is locally owned and operated right here in Central Texas with an experienced staff ready to serve your landscaping and tree care needs.
 

 Let our experience, knowledge, and training work for you.

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