We primarily work in the north areas of the Denver Metro, to include Thornton, Northglenn, Arvada, Westminster, Broomfield, Erie, Lafayette, Louisville, and Boulder
* Xeriscaping and Landscape Renovations
* New home Landscaping
* Brick Paver Installation
* Hardscaping-Walks, Patios, Walls, Steps
* Sprinklers and Drip Irrigation Systems
* Planting and Garden installation
* Design and Consulting
1. Tell me about your business, the projects you do, and how you are different from other landscape companies? We are a small single crew firm taking on a limited number of jobs, mostly in the $5-40k range. Our preferred projects are xeriscaping and plant related, as well as brick paver and other hardscaping installations. We seek projects requiring creativity and the chance to really make a difference in a client's situation! Our smaller size allows for flexibility and keeps prices competitive.
2. Do you have a minimum job size?
Not really, it mostly depends on the project specifics and skill level. We receive a LOT of inquiries every year, thus some small non-technical jobs we prefer to leave to other firms. Since we are a one crew operation we can only take on so much work and still provide a high level of service.
3. Do you require a down payment prior to beginning?
Yes, we typically ask for 30-50% of the job cost as a down payment unless it's a very small job. More info below.
4. Do you use a contract?
Yes. Our written agreement is a standard landscape contract that spells out the job parameters, payment schedule, and other details. It is designed to protect both the client’s and our interests. You will always have time to review the contract before signing it. We also will do a pre-job walk through with you prior to commencing work and have all underground utilities located. Our contract also provides for a 3 day right to cancel
5. I have an HOA and they require a design in order to approve any type of project. Do you offer this service?
Yes, we can prepare a scale, colored hand drawing of the proposed project with an accompanying plant list and project description. Typical costs for these are in the $150-400 range, depending on the complexity of the project. This is much less than many landscape designers will charge. If you already have a design we can also utilize that!
6. Is the company owner involved with my job or are you just sending a crew and/or subcontractors to do my job?
With Sage and Stone, the owner is always involved closely with the job. I will be onsite and working with the crew most days and am always available by phone. We do use subcontractors for certain tasks. We only use insured and experienced subs that we know and trust.
7. Do you provide free estimates and do you need to know what my budget is for my project?
We will provide one free lump sum estimate. Multiple or highly itemized estimates can be done for a fee. As for budget issues, it is very helpful to know roughly what you are willing or able to spend. The main reasons for this are to set expectations and avoid surprises and misunderstandings. If necessary, we can also give you phasing options for the job.
8. Are you licensed and insured?
The state of Colorado does not require licensing for landscape contractors although a few cities do. We do carry liability and vehicle insurance to cover any possible damage to your property during installation. We carry workmans comp for our employees. By the way, in our 21 years of doing installations, we have never had to make a liability or workmans comp claim. Safety and a clean worksite are always high priorities.
9. I don’t like doing maintenance and want a low maintenance landscape. How can you ensure this?
Low maintenance is the goal for every situation. A low maintenance landscape starts with quality design and installation. Most maintenance issues revolve around plant materials and organic mulches. This includes lawn care, weeding, cleanups, and general plant care and replacement. All landscapes require some maintenance to keep looking good. There is no such thing as a maintenance-free landscape!
10. Can you install my project within a certain time frame?
Absolutely. We prefer to work on one job at a time and then move on to the next job. If for some reason there may be gaps in the installation schedule, we will let you know in advance.
11. I've heard some cities are paying homeowners to remove lawn and replace with xeriscape. Is this true?
In general, yes, but the rules vary from city to city. Some cities offer discounts on lawn removal services and/or xeric plants through Resource Central(resourcecentral.org/lawn) while others give rebates on your water bill. We try to keep up with different programs but it's a challenge! It's best to check with your city and it also helps to apply early in the landscaping season.
12. How good of an investment is landscaping?
In general it is a very good to excellent investment that will return anywhere from 80% and sometimes up to 100% of the amount invested, depending on the project. In our opinion, the best returns come from hardscape and yard projects that compliment and extend indoor living spaces and those that add curb appeal. Of course this assumes that regular maintenance is followed!