This FAQ resource answers the most common questions homeowners ask when planning outdoor spaces. It is designed to help you make informed decisions and understand what to expect when working with a professional outdoor design-and-build firm. If you have additional questions, contact our team or schedule an initial consultation for an in-depth session with a designer.
General Maintenance & Care Questions
Custom paver driveway with before and after comparison of sealed vs unsealed pavers
How often should a paver patio be power-washed and sealed?
Paver patios should be cleaned once per year. Sealing is recommended every two to three years, depending on use and exposure.
What is the proper way to clean a paver patio?
To clean your paver patio, we recommend using a power washer with a fan-tipped nozzle. Keep the nozzle of your hose at no more than a 30° angle, 12” away from the surface to avoid washing out any joint material. Another option is a nylon-bristled broom with a mild dish soap and water solution.
How often should plants, shrubs, and trees be pruned?
Your Aspen-installed plantings require minimal maintenance beyond watering. Since they don’t follow a set maintenance schedule, care should be based on appearance. For best plant health, limit pruning to light shaping, removing dead or broken branches, and pinching or deadheading old blooms. Always use sharp tools and make 45° cuts to encourage healthy new growth. Pruning timing varies by plant type, and perennials will stay bushy and flower when spent blossoms are regularly pinched off.
What are the best watering practices for landscaping?
Check the soil of all new plants weekly during the first year. Water only when the soil feels dry. Use deep watering for trees and large shrubs. Let a hose slowly trickle water for 45 to 60 minutes. In hot, dry weather, water trees and shrubs daily in the first two weeks. For weeks three through twelve, water them every 2 to 3 days. Deep water once per week after twelve weeks until the roots establish. Use a sprinkler for the same duration on small shrubs, perennials, and annuals. Water early in the morning to prevent scorch or mildew. Check soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering.
How do I care for newly installed sod or pre-grown grass?
The most important care instruction is to keep your sod sufficiently watered. In the first two weeks, your sod should be watered for at least 20 minutes twice a day. It is best to water in the early morning and late evening. We recommend waiting about five weeks for roots to establish before mowing. If necessary, adjust the mower to the highest setting to avoid cutting too close to the root.
Outdoor Living Design Questions
What are the best materials for a low-maintenance patio?
We exclusively use premium natural stone and Unilock pavers for our patios. These materials are durable, long-lasting, low-maintenance, weather-resistant, and ideal for varying extreme climates. We do not offer concrete patio installations as they do not perform as well in Indiana’s climate.
Backyard roofed structure with heaters and an outdoor fireplace for year-round use
What is the best time of year to start an outdoor project?
It depends on when you want to start using your space! If your goal is to enjoy it come summer, we recommend initiating your project between December and February. This allows ample time to design, plan, and schedule construction before the busy season.
Can outdoor living spaces be used year-round?
Yes, with proper design. Roofed structures, outdoor fire features, and other services enhance your space, adding comfort year-round.
Do outdoor living projects require permits?
Many projects require permits. This includes decks, structures, and gas or electrical installations. Permits vary by county, but Aspen will handle all permit applications and processing.
Design and Planning Questions
What is included in a professional landscape design?
A design fee is paid upfront and credited toward your final invoice. After the design period, your designer presents the completed plan and reviews any changes you want. Requested revisions create a change order and update the estimate. Your design includes a blueprint-style AutoCAD drawing showing all features and layout details, along with a detailed cost breakdown. Optional 3D renderings are available for an additional fee.
How long does the landscape design process take?
After your initial consultation, expect a wait of 4-8 weeks, depending on the seasonal workload. During this time, your designer will take necessary measurements and develop your design plan before presenting the final design.
How much does a custom outdoor living project cost?
Costs vary based on size, materials, and features. A consultation helps establish realistic expectations.
Can projects be completed in phases?
Yes. Many homeowners choose phased construction to spread costs over time. We’ve had clients space out their projects over a few months, and some over a few years.
Aspen Outdoor Designs Specific FAQs
How long have you been in business?
Aspen Outdoor Designs was created by our president, Jeff Behlmer, in March of 1997!
Do you offer landscape maintenance services?
At this time, we do not offer maintenance services unless you are an existing or previous client.
How does Aspen Outdoor Designs ensure quality?
Our designers hold thorough consultations to understand each homeowner’s vision, and our skilled crews bring it to life. We stay transparent by addressing mistakes or changes quickly and by being honest about costs and timelines. We believe lasting landscapes come from combining our clients’ vision, the land’s features, and our designers’ artistry.
How long does the process take from consultation to construction?
Timelines for each project vary based on size, location, materials, permitting, scheduling, and weather. On average, projects usually take between two and six months. The best way to know how long your project will take is by speaking with a designer during an initial consultation.
Do you offer warranties on materials and installation?
Yes! Depending on which products are used, you will receive all warranty information after your project through our client portal. This includes warranty for lighting, plantings, carpentry materials, and hardscape materials. If you have any additional questions that the warranty pages do not specify, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team via our info@aspenoutdoordesigns.com email with a photo and explanation of the issue.
Is there a minimum project size?
We do not list a formal project minimum. Most of our work ranges from smaller service visits for existing clients to large outdoor living projects that can exceed several hundred thousand dollars. As a full‑service landscape design and build firm, we focus on projects that involve thoughtful planning, skilled installation, and long‑term outdoor solutions.
What sets Aspen Outdoor Designs apart?
At Aspen Outdoor Designs, outdoor spaces should be more than just functional. They should reflect your lifestyle, values, and how you want to live outside. We strive to create environments that feel intentional, timeless, and deeply personal. Every project begins with listening to our clients’ needs and dreams. From there, we craft custom designs using high-quality materials and thoughtful details to elevate your outdoor experience. We’re committed to making the process smooth, collaborative, and inspiring. Every project is treated as if it were our own home, designed with heart and built with integrity.
Still Have Questions About Your Outdoor Space?
A well-designed outdoor space adds beauty, function, and long-term value to your home. If you have questions not covered here, send them via our general inquiries email: info@aspenoutdoordesigns.com. Or, you may contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation with a designer and get even more in-depth answers to any questions.