Frequently Asked Questions
Landscape Design & Build
What services does a full-service design-build landscape company offer in Folsom / El Dorado Hills?
Pacific Breeze Landscape provides complete outdoor design-build solutions — from concept to completion. Our specialties include:
Design Services: 2D plans, 3D renderings, HOA submittals, and permitting support. Every project is managed start-to-finish by our in-house team, ensuring one point of accountability and consistent quality.
Hardscapes: concrete, pavers, retaining walls, masonry, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and patio covers.
Pools & Water Features: custom pool and spa design, fountains, and integrated water walls.
Softscapes: planting, irrigation, drainage, turf, and lighting.
How do I know whether I need just a design, just construction, or both for my backyard remodel?
Pricing depends on scope, materials, and access. Typical California averages:
Custom pool or spa: $85 K – $150 K +
Hardscape Flatwork (Pavers & Concrete): $18 – $35 + per sq ft
Outdoor kitchen: $18 K – $50 K +
Fire feature area: $8 K – $15 K +
Planting + lighting: $10 K – $30 K +
A full backyard transformation can reach $75 K – $300 K +. After design we provide an itemized estimate so you know exactly where every dollar goes.
How do I know whether I need just a design, just construction, or both for my backyard remodel?
If you already have architectural plans, we can build directly from them. However, most clients choose our design-build approach because it keeps design, estimating, and construction aligned — saving time and reducing change orders.
During design we create detailed 2D plans, 3D models, confirm materials, and verify local codes so your project is build-ready the moment permits are approved.
Is the contractor licensed, insured, and local to our region (Northern California / Sacramento area)?
Absolutely. Pacific Breeze Landscape holds active California Contractors Licenses (C-27 and General B), carries full liability and workers’ comp insurance, and serves the greater Sacramento region, including Folsom, Granite Bay, El Dorado Hills, and Roseville. Our local experience means we understand area soils, drainage, and HOA guidelines — key to smooth permitting and lasting results.
Do I need permits, engineering or HOA approval for a major outdoor living or ADU project?
Yes. Most structural or electrical work — pools, patio covers, retaining walls, and gas or electrical lines — requires permits.
Our team handles engineering, city permitting, and HOA submissions so you don’t have to coordinate multiple agencies. We help prepare and submit all documents before construction begins to avoid delays.
Can you show examples of your past work—especially hardscapes, pools, outdoor kitchens—in this market?
Yes, please browse our portfolio at pacificbreezelandscape.com/portfolio or follow @pacific_breeze_design_build.
You’ll see completed pools, outdoor kitchens, and full landscape remodels. We can also share project case studies and, with permission, arrange site visits to past installations.
How long will my landscape renovation project take from start to finish?
Average timelines:
Design + approvals: 1 – 2+ months
Construction: 3 – 8+ Months
Smaller front yards may finish in 4 – 6 weeks, while full backyards with pools and structures can run 4 – 8 months.
Weather, inspections, and material lead times can affect schedules, but your project manager provides weekly updates to keep you informed.
Factors that can influence the timeline include:
Design approval process: Time taken to finalize the design.
Permitting: Obtaining necessary permits from local authorities.
Material availability: Lead times for specific materials.
Weather conditions: Inclement weather can cause delays.
Unforeseen site challenges: Unexpected issues discovered during excavation.
A detailed project schedule will be provided once the design is finalized.
How will I stay informed during the project — how often will I get updates, what happens if there are changes or delays?
Clear and consistent communication is a cornerstone of our project management. You will stay informed through:
Regular Updates: We provide weekly progress updates, typically via phone calls or emails, to keep you informed of milestones achieved and upcoming activities.
On-site Meetings: Scheduled meetings at the project site will be held as needed, particularly at key stages, to review progress and address any questions.
Dedicated Project Manager: You will have a dedicated project manager who is your primary point of contact for all inquiries and updates.
Change Orders: If any changes to the scope of work are requested or become necessary, a formal change order will be presented for your approval before any additional work proceeds, clearly outlining any impact on cost or schedule.
Delays: In the event of unforeseen delays (e.g., weather, material availability), we will communicate immediately, explain the reason, and provide an updated timeline.
Our goal is to ensure you feel informed and confident throughout the entire renovation process.
Are there budget-friendly options if I don’t want a full high-end remodel but still want quality work?
Absolutely! We understand that not everyone needs or wants a full, high-end remodel. We are adept at working within various budgets to deliver quality work. Budget-friendly options include:
Phased Approach: Breaking down your project into stages that can be completed over time, allowing you to spread out the cost.
Strategic Material Choices: Opting for cost-effective yet durable materials where appropriate (e.g., certain pavers instead of natural stone, composite decking instead of exotic hardwoods).
Focusing on Key Features: Prioritizing a few impactful elements (e.g., a nice patio and basic landscaping) rather than incorporating every possible feature.
Smaller Scale Design: Creating a design that maximizes impact in a smaller area, or using simpler layouts.
DIY Elements (for some aspects): If you're comfortable, you might handle certain smaller tasks yourself (e.g., planting annuals) after our main construction.
Financing Option: Financing allows you to begin construction sooner and spread payments out over manageable terms, often with competitive rates.
During the design phase, we will discuss your budget and explore various options to create a beautiful and functional space that meets your financial goals.
What additional costs should I expect (site prep, grading, irrigation, drainage, lighting) that aren’t obvious in initial estimates?
While initial estimates aim to be comprehensive, some costs can sometimes be overlooked or underestimated if not explicitly discussed. These often include:
Site Preparation: Costs for demolition and removal of existing structures, extensive clearing of debris, or significant tree removal.
Grading & Excavation: If the site has significant slopes or requires extensive earthwork to create a level area for a patio, pool, or foundation, this can add considerable cost.
Drainage Solutions: Addressing poor drainage or installing new drainage systems (e.g., French drains, catch basins) to prevent water issues.
Enhanced Irrigation: While basic irrigation is often included, sophisticated smart irrigation systems or extensive zones for complex planting areas can be additional.
Specialized Lighting: Beyond basic safety lighting, architectural or accent lighting can increase costs.
Utility Rerouting: Moving existing gas lines, electrical conduits, or water pipes to accommodate new features.
Permit Fees: The actual fees charged by the city or county for permits.
Temporary Fencing/Protection: For larger projects, temporary fencing might be needed to secure the site.
Contingency: It's always wise to budget an additional 10-15% for unforeseen issues that may arise during construction.
We strive to provide transparent estimates and will discuss all potential costs upfront during the design and planning stages.
How do you choose plants, materials and features to match the local climate (Folsom / El Dorado Hills) and maintenance level I’m willing to do?
Our plant and material selection process is highly customized and considers both the local environment and your preferences:
Climate Adaptation: We prioritize plants that are well-suited to the hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters of the Folsom/El Dorado Hills climate. This includes drought-tolerant, native, and Mediterranean-adapted species that thrive with less water.
Soil Analysis: We consider your specific soil type and amend it as necessary to ensure optimal plant health.
Water Conservation: We emphasize efficient irrigation design and water-wise planting to minimize water usage.
Maintenance Preferences: During our initial consultation, we discuss your desired level of maintenance (e.g., low-maintenance, medium, high). Based on this, we select plants that require minimal pruning, offer evergreen appeal, or provide seasonal interest without excessive upkeep.
Aesthetics & Style: We align plant choices and material selections with your preferred aesthetic, home architecture, and overall design vision.
Durability of Materials: For hardscapes and features, we recommend materials known for their longevity and resilience in our climate.
Our goal is to create a beautiful, sustainable, and enjoyable outdoor space that requires the level of effort you're comfortable with.
What is the best time of year to start a landscape construction project in our region?
While landscape construction can happen year-round, there are optimal times for different aspects in the Folsom/El Dorado Hills region:
Fall (September - November): This is often considered ideal for planting. The cooler temperatures and incoming winter rains help plants establish roots before the hot summer. It's also a good time for hardscape work as the intense summer heat subsides
Winter (December - February): Good for hardscaping, demolition, and major earthwork, provided there isn't excessive rain. Planting can also occur, but growth may be slower.
Spring (March - May): Another excellent time for planting and getting your garden established before summer. Hardscape work also progresses well.
Summer (June - August): While possible, intense heat can make planting more challenging and require more intensive watering. This season is often favored for pool construction and projects where digging and concrete work benefit from dry conditions.
However, Pacific Breeze designs and operates year-round with scheduling strategies to manage weather impacts.
Do you handle everything (design, materials, install) or will there be multiple subcontractors I’ve to coordinate?
We manage the entire process — design, materials, permits, and installation. Our in-house crews perform most work, and when specialists (e.g., pool shell or electrical) are required, we use long-term, vetted trade partners under our supervision. This ensures quality control, efficient scheduling and project execution, as well as a seamless client experience.
How will this investment increase the value of my home (or rental income) and what features deliver the most ROI?
A well-designed and executed landscape renovation can significantly increase your home's value by 10 – 20 percent, and potential rental income. Features that typically deliver the most return on investment (ROI) include:
Enhanced Curb Appeal: A beautiful front yard and inviting entry increase initial buyer/renter interest.
Outdoor Living Spaces: Patios, decks, and pergolas create additional functional living areas, extending the usable space of your home.
Outdoor Kitchens: High-quality outdoor kitchens are highly desirable for entertaining and can be a major selling point.
Swimming Pools & Spas: While a larger investment, pools can significantly increase home value, especially in warmer climates like ours.
Efficient Irrigation & Drought-Tolerant Landscaping: Demonstrates water consciousness and reduces future maintenance costs, appealing to environmentally aware buyers/renters.
Thoughtful Lighting: Enhances safety, extends usability into the evenings, and creates a sophisticated ambiance.
Mature Trees: Provide shade, privacy, and aesthetic beauty, which are highly valued.
We can help you design a landscape that not only meets your lifestyle needs but also maximizes your property's long-term value.