Installation Work That Holds Up

Professional Landscape Construction Services in Grand Rapids

When it's time to move from plans to actual installation, you need crews who understand how to grade properly, set stone without shifting, and install systems that won't fail after the first winter. Alfresco Landscapes handles the physical work involved in building patios, retaining walls, planting beds, outdoor living structures, and irrigation systems across Grand Rapids and surrounding areas. The team works from the engineered site plan developed

during the design phase.

Construction starts with site preparation, which includes clearing, grading, and setting proper slope for drainage. Crews then install underground components such as irrigation lines, electrical conduit for lighting, and drainage pipe before any hardscape or planting work begins. Stone patios are set on compacted aggregate base, and retaining walls are built with proper backfill and drainage to prevent frost heave. Plantings are selected for West Michigan conditions and installed with root health and spacing in mind.

Request a build consultation to review your property and talk through what the installation process looks like for your project.

How Our Process Works

After the consultation and plan approval, the crew schedules a start date and begins mobilizing equipment and materials to your Grand Rapids property. You'll see excavators, compactors, and material deliveries as grading and base preparation get underway. The team marks utility lines, protects existing trees or structures, and stages work zones to minimize disruption.

Once underground systems are in place, hardscape installation begins with precise leveling and joint spacing to prevent settling or water pooling. Alfresco Landscapes uses materials suited to freeze-thaw cycles and high-end residential expectations, including natural stone, pavers, and modular block systems. You'll notice clean edges, stable walking surfaces, and proper transitions between lawn, beds, and paved areas.

Planting installation happens after hardscapes are complete, with attention to soil amendments, mulch depth, and initial watering schedules. Irrigation zones are tested and adjusted before final grading. The crew cleans up daily and conducts a final walkthrough to confirm everything functions as planned. This service does not include ongoing maintenance or seasonal care.

Most questions about landscape construction focus on timing, material durability, and how site challenges are handled during the build. These answers address the practical side of installation work.

Details That Matter Most

What site preparation is needed before construction starts?
The crew clears vegetation, marks utilities, and adjusts grading to direct water away from structures. Base materials are then compacted to create a stable foundation for hardscapes or plantings.
How are retaining walls built to last in Grand Rapids winters?
Walls are built with proper base depth, backfill drainage, and cap stones to prevent water infiltration. Materials are chosen to withstand freeze-thaw cycles without cracking or shifting.
What happens if unexpected drainage issues are found during excavation?
The crew installs catch basins, French drains, or adjusts grading to correct the issue before hardscapes or plantings go in. You'll be notified if additional drainage work is needed.
Why is compaction important for patios and walkways?
Proper compaction prevents settling, which causes uneven surfaces and water pooling. Crews use plate compactors and check levels multiple times during base preparation.
What types of plantings are typically installed during construction?
Crews install trees, shrubs, perennials, and groundcovers selected for West Michigan climate and your site's sun and moisture conditions. Plantings are mulched and irrigated immediately after installation.

After construction wraps, you'll have outdoor spaces built to handle foot traffic, weather exposure, and seasonal use without requiring constant repairs. Get in touch to discuss your project scope and schedule a free consultation in Grand Rapids.

Landscape Construction
landscape lighting
fire & water features
Snow plowing
de-icing
hand shoveling
lawn care
plant and bed maintenance
irrigation maintenance
chemical treatments
pest control spraying