Step 1: Discovery & Consultation

Every project starts with a conversation. We come to your property — at no charge — to walk the space with you, listen to your goals, and understand how you actually use (or want to use) your outdoor area.

We ask questions most contractors skip: Where does water pool after a heavy rain? Which direction does the prevailing wind come from in summer? Do you want a space for entertaining, for kids, for quiet mornings with coffee — or all of the above?

This visit typically takes 30–60 minutes. We take measurements, photos, and notes. By the end, we have a clear picture of what you're trying to accomplish and what the site will allow.

Step 2: Design & Planning

Based on our site visit, we develop a concept for your project. This includes:

  • Layout and flow of hardscape elements (patios, walkways, walls)
  • Material recommendations suited to your goals and budget
  • Drainage and grading considerations
  • Plant and softscape suggestions (if applicable)
  • Phasing options if you'd like to break the project into stages

We don't believe in over-designing. Our goal is a plan that's realistic, buildable, and that you'll love — not a presentation meant to impress.

Step 3: Estimate & Approval

You receive a detailed written estimate that breaks down:

  • Every material being installed (product, quantity, unit cost)
  • Labor scope and crew composition
  • Total project investment
  • Estimated start and completion timeframe
  • Payment schedule (typically deposit + final payment on completion)

We don't do vague lump-sum bids. If you have questions about any line item, we answer them. If you want to swap a material or adjust scope, we revise the estimate and get your sign-off before ordering anything.

Step 4: Site Prep & Installation

This is where the work happens. Our crew handles everything:

  • Utility location: We call 811 before any digging — every time, no exceptions
  • Excavation and grading: Proper base preparation is the foundation of a long-lasting project
  • Material delivery and staging: We coordinate deliveries to minimize disruption to your property
  • Installation: Each phase follows manufacturer specifications and best practices for Wisconsin's climate
  • Daily cleanup: We clean up the job site each day. Your property doesn't become a construction zone overnight.

We self-perform our work. The crew you meet is the crew that builds your project. We don't subcontract our labor.

Step 5: Project Completion & Care Tips

When the work is done, we do a full walkthrough with you. We review what was installed, point out anything you should be aware of, and go over care recommendations specific to your materials:

  • Paver sealing schedule and product recommendations
  • How to handle first-winter settling (minor movement is normal)
  • Appropriate deicing products for your surface type
  • Plant establishment watering needs
  • Any warranty details that apply

We're not gone after the check clears. If something comes up in the first season — a paver that shifted, a drain that needs adjustment — we stand behind our work.

Timeline Expectations

From signed estimate to project completion, most mid-size projects (patio, retaining wall, basic landscaping) run 30–45 business days from our schedule date. This accounts for material lead times, crew scheduling, and Wisconsin weather.

Our busiest seasons are spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October). If you're planning a project for peak season, reaching out in February or March gives you the best chance at your preferred dates. We fill our schedule quickly and work on a first-come, first-served basis.

Larger projects — full backyard transformations, multi-phase installs — are planned with you on a custom timeline. We'll be transparent about what's realistic from the beginning.

What Our Customers Say

Don't take our word for it. We've completed hundreds of projects across SE Wisconsin — from small stoops in Kenosha to full backyard overhauls in Burlington and Waterford. Here's what some of our customers have shared:

"From the first visit to the final walkthrough, the process was smooth and professional. They did exactly what they said they would, on time and on budget."
"We got three bids. Tony's was detailed and easy to understand. Some of the other bids were just a number — we had no idea what we were getting. The transparency made the decision easy."

You can read more reviews on our Reviews page or on our Google profile.