Questions to ask a landscape contractor before installing a patio

A hardscape patio that's installed using pavers or similar natural stones provides an attractive outdoor space that's incredibly low-maintenance and suitable for any climate. If you're thinking of hiring a professional landscaper to install a paver patio, you should know what questions to ask the contractor. Minor errors can result in major losses, from unpleasant appearances to serious drainage issues. It's worth taking the time to research and compare contractors to ensure you're hiring someone who is an experienced expert in paver patio installation. 

A reputable landscaping contractor will:

• Compact each foundation layer from the subsoil through the base materials to help prevent uneven settling over time as well as weed growth.
• Grade your patio with a very slight slope for ideal water drainage.
• Add joint sand in all spaces between pavers to keep them from shifting. ​

A few questions you may want to ask a landscape contractor before having them install you patio are:

1. Are you licensed and insured?
Massachusetts does require professional landscape contractors to have an active license to perform work. Your contractor should also carry liability insurance and, if it has employees, worker’s compensation insurance. If not, you could be responsible for paying for damages a contractor causes to your property or to him or herself or employees. When you meet with a landscape contractor, ask to see their license and proof of insurance.

2. Do you provide a quote?
Of course you want to know how much a paver patio installation will likely cost. Your landscape contractor should be able to provide you with a quote for the job, not just a price range.

3. Do you offer a contract?
Most professionals are willing to include the scope of the work in writing right along with your quote. If they don't do this, ask them to. While a verbal agreement may work fine in many cases, it's always better to get it in writing or look for a different contractor. 

4. Can you provide a timeline?
A good landscaper will inform you of the start date and time for your job. They should also let you know what time to expect the crew each day and how many days it'll take to complete the job. 

5. Can you provide 3 - 5 referrals?
An experienced contractor will gladly supply you with the names and phone numbers of past customers so you can verify their work. You can also ask to visit a site where the contractor installed a similar paver patio and ask to talk with that homeowner about their experience with the contractor. If a contractor is reluctant to give you referrals, there's probably a reason. 

6. How will you execute the installation of my paver patio?
A landscape contractor can explain to you the plan to prepare the patio base; discuss the material options that can be used; explain the compaction process, as well as drainage factors.
An experienced landscaper can also explain the pros and cons of certain materials and help you select what works best to meet your style choices as well as your budget.

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