Frequently asked questions
General Design & Build
What is landscape design and why does it matter?
A great plan balances beauty and function. It boosts curb appeal, adds usable space, and can increase value.
How do I choose the right contractor?
Check real projects, reviews, licensing, and insurance. Make sure they listen, explain clearly, and give a written scope and schedule.
What does design and build mean?
One team handles concept, permits, and construction. Fewer handoffs, tighter schedule, better results.
Why hire a licensed pro instead of DIY or unlicensed?
You get code compliance, permits, insured crews, and work that lasts. It saves time, stress, and often money.
What services do you offer?
Design, hardscape, softscape, irrigation, lighting, outdoor kitchens, fire features, pergolas, water features, premium artificial turf.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. California C-27, bonded, and fully insured. Certificates on request.
Do you provide ongoing maintenance?
We focus on design and build. We hand off a care guide and can refer maintenance partners.
Can you design drought-tolerant yards?
Yes. Climate-appropriate plants, drip irrigation, smart controllers, permeable surfaces.
Why choose Craft Custom Backyards?
High-end results, clear communication, single point of contact. From first call to finished.
Can you work with my architect, pool builder, or designer?
Yes. We collaborate often. Share their plans and we will coordinate details, utilities, and timelines.
Can you reuse existing trees, plants, or hardscape?
Often yes. We assess health and feasibility. Reuse can save budget and keep mature character.
What patio materials do you recommend for SoCal and why?
Porcelain pavers for durability and low maintenance, concrete or natural stone where it fits style and budget. We advise on heat, slip, and upkeep.
Outdoor Kitchens & Hardscapes
Can I add an outdoor kitchen or fire feature?
Yes. Built-in grills, fridges, sinks, storage, pizza ovens, fire pits or fireplaces, plus shade and seating.
Hardscape vs softscape, what is the difference?
Hardscape is structure like patios, walls, steps. Softscape is plants, turf, and soil. Great yards balance both.
How much does an outdoor kitchen or patio cost?
Ranges vary by size, materials, and appliances. Many SoCal outdoor kitchens land in the tens of thousands. Patios range from small sittings to expansive terraces. We design to budget and quote clearly.
Do I need permits for patios, walls, or kitchens?
Often yes for structures, gas, or electrical. We handle plans, submittals, and inspections.
Do you seal pavers and prevent weeds?
We install proper base, edge restraint, polymeric joint sand, and offer sealing. That keeps joints tight and weeds minimal.
Lighting
What lighting do you offer?
Path, step, uplights for trees and walls, task lights at kitchens, ambient string or undercap lights.
How do I control lights?
Timers, photo cells, and smart apps. We can tie lighting into your home network.
Irrigation and Drainage
What irrigation systems do you install?
Efficient spray zones for lawn, drip for plants, smart controllers, rain or moisture sensors.
Can I control irrigation from my phone?
Yes. Smart controllers adjust for weather and can be managed in an app. We set programs and coach you on use.
How do you handle drainage and grading?
We design proper slope, add area drains or French drains where needed, and route water to safe discharge points.
Pricing & Financing
How much will my project cost?
It depends on scope and materials. After design you receive an itemized quote. We aim for maximum impact at your budget.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. We can connect you with home improvement lenders and structure progress payments.
Is a deposit required and how do payments work?
Yes. A deposit secures materials and schedule. Remaining payments track milestones. We accept common payment methods.
Will this increase my home’s value?
Quality outdoor living spaces often improve marketability and value while delivering daily enjoyment.
Logistics and Site Prep
What access do you need to my yard?
Tell us gate width and any tight turns. We plan equipment size, staging, and parking so access is safe and respectful.
Do you handle demolition and hauling?
Yes. Removal and disposal are included unless noted. We recycle where possible.
How do you protect my property and neighbors?
Surface protection, dust control, daily cleanup, courteous crews, and clear communication. If a concern pops up, we address it fast.
Process & Timeline
What is the typical process?
Consultation and site review
Design and materials
Proposal and schedule
Permits if needed
Build with one crew
Final walkthrough and care guide
How long will it take?
Simple builds can run 2 to 6 weeks once we break ground. Larger projects take longer. You get a written schedule up front.
Best time to start in SoCal?
We build year-round. Spring and fall are popular. Planting thrives fall through spring.
Can we phase the project?
Yes. We build in smart phases tied to a master plan so early work does not get torn up later.
Will I see designs before construction?
Yes. Scaled plans and, when helpful, 3D views. Nothing starts until you approve.
How many design revisions are included?
Two rounds are typical. More are available if the scope is evolving. We keep changes tidy and tracked.
When do I get an estimate?
After consultation and scope clarity. You receive an itemized proposal with options.
How do you handle changes or surprises?
We flag it fast, price it clearly, get approval in writing, then proceed. No surprises.
What are your work hours and jobsite standards?
Weekdays 8 to 5 unless you prefer otherwise. We protect surfaces, manage dust, secure tools, and tidy daily. Happy neighbors help projects.
Do you call utility locators before digging?
Yes. We contact the utility marking service and verify on site before excavation.
What if materials are delayed?
We propose equal or better alternates, or resequence tasks to protect schedule. You approve any change.
How soon can you start and how do you schedule?
Start dates vary by season and permit timing. We hold your slot after deposit and design approval. You get a calendar and updates.
Turf Installation
Why choose artificial turf?
Year-round green, low upkeep, major water savings. Great for kids and pets.
How long does turf last?
Quality turf often carries long warranties and can perform 15 years or more with basic care.
Is it safe for kids and pets?
Yes. Non-toxic products with excellent drainage. Optional pad for play zones.
Does turf get hot?
Modern turf tech reduces heat. On very hot days a quick rinse helps. We also address window reflections that can create hot spots.
What maintenance is required?
Occasional blowing or brushing, quick rinses, simple spot cleanups. No mowing or fertilizers.
What infill do you use and how do you control pet odors?
We match infill to use. Silica or coated infills for general use, antimicrobial infills for pets. Good drainage and simple enzyme rinses control odor.
Can you combine natural grass and turf?
Yes. We design clean transitions and matching grades so both areas look intentional.
Outdoor Kitchens & Hardscapes
Can I add an outdoor kitchen or fire feature?
Yes. Built-in grills, fridges, sinks, storage, pizza ovens, fire pits or fireplaces, plus shade and seating.
Hardscape vs softscape, what is the difference?
Hardscape is structure like patios, walls, steps. Softscape is plants, turf, and soil. Great yards balance both.
How much does an outdoor kitchen or patio cost?
Ranges vary by size, materials, and appliances. Many SoCal outdoor kitchens land in the tens of thousands. Patios range from small sittings to expansive terraces. We design to budget and quote clearly.
Do I need permits for patios, walls, or kitchens?
Often yes for structures, gas, or electrical. We handle plans, submittals, and inspections.
Do you seal pavers and prevent weeds?
We install proper base, edge restraint, polymeric joint sand, and offer sealing. That keeps joints tight and weeds minimal.
Permits & Regulations
Will I need permits and who handles them?
If your project includes structures, utilities, or certain wall heights, permits are likely. We prepare plans, submit, and attend inspections.
Can you help with HOA approvals?
Yes. We prepare submittals and adjust designs to meet guidelines.
Are there rebates for water-wise landscaping or turf?
Some cities and water districts offer them. We can point you to current programs and provide documentation.
Booking, Communication, and Warranty
How do I schedule a consultation?
Call 310-648-1703 or use the contact form. We reply within one business day.
Is the first consultation free?
Yes. We review your space, goals, and timeline, then outline next steps.
What happens during the consult?
We walk the site, discuss priorities and style, review constraints, and talk budget ranges. You share inspiration. We guide the plan.
What warranty do you offer?
Written warranties vary by component. Typical coverage includes workmanship on hardscape, irrigation function, plant establishment, and manufacturer coverage on turf. Details are in your contract.
What if I am not satisfied?
Tell us. We fix what falls short of our standards. We stand behind our work.
Do you provide post-project support or tune-ups?
Yes. We teach controllers and lighting, hand off a care guide, and offer optional one-year refresh checks.