Frequently Asked Questions
We've put together a comprehensive list of our most asked lanscaping garden related questions to help you understand how we operate, our process and what happens during the experience of working with Gnome Sweet Home.
Landscaping works can be carried out at any time of year. When planning your garden makeover with us , try to consider which months of the year will be best for you. For example, if you have school aged children, you may not want your garden dug up for the summer holidays. We normally say from October to march before the Easter holidays is best time.
Absolutely, yes you can. If you want to enlarge the patio, create a wildlife pond or build an outdoor kitchen it’s perfectly possible to landscape a section of the garden.
If you are planning on gradually redesigning the whole garden but completing the work in stages, I would strongly recommend forward planning on what you would like, That way you can prioritise jobs and the finished product will “flow” much better.
A garden makeover depends upon many things. The size and complexity of the project, access to the site, the good old British weather, availability of materials and more.
Gnome Sweet Home team always do their utmost to cause the least possible disruption to the neighbourhood. We are careful where we park our vehicles and don’t use noisy machinery too early in the morning. However, major landscaping work nearly always involves a certain amount of noise and dust.
In my experience, provided neighbours are warned that there’ll be some temporary disturbance, they are usually quite amenable. Especially since raising the “tone” of an area will reflect on the value of their property too.
Good landscapers are also good project managers. In most cases there is absolutely nothing for the client to do except sit back watch their new garden grow. Gnome Sweet Home we organise everything for you….. skips, machinery, materials, deliveries, specialist trades ….everything.
There is no reason whatsoever for Gnome Sweet home to come into your house – unless of course you are generous enough to invite them in for tea breaks.
All the landscaping team will need is access to an electricity supply and a water tap.
When it comes to food, drinks etc, landscapers are very good at looking after themselves. (But we do appreciate the occasional cup of tea's and bacon sandwiches )
Always always always check out a landscaping Company before agreeing to have any work done.
Look for online reviews, ask friends and colleagues for recommendations and make sure that they are honest, reliable and competent, Gnome Sweet Home always suggests going to see a few of there projects before hand.
Hiring a good landscaper will enhance and add value to your property - so it'’'s an investment. The cost of course depends on the scope of the project and the choice of materials.
Please don’t make cost the only consideration when hiring a landscape gardener. Remember, these people will be working in your garden for (possibly) some time. Make sure you feel comfortable with them before hand.
We get asked a lot about what happens after you've had your garden lanscape transformed by Gnome Sweet Home.
Yes, natural stone and some concrete products can weather and change tone due to sunlight, rainfall, and general use. This is normal and part of the natural look.
Jointing mortar may shrink or crack slightly as it settles. Small repairs can be made if necessary. Avoid directing strong jet-wash pressure onto joints.
Efflorescence is a natural salt deposit that sometimes appears on new paving. It usually fades over time with weather and cleaning, and does not affect the strength of the product.
Damp, shaded areas are most prone. Regular sweeping and keeping surfaces clean helps. Algae removers or mild biocides can be used if growth appears.
Avoid using harsh de-icing salts, as these may damage some paving types. Use sand or grit instead. Clear snow and ice with a plastic shovel to avoid scratching.
Slight settlement may occur as the ground adjusts, especially after heavy rain. If you see significant movement, contact us so we can advise or inspect
Looking for a Low-Maintenance Garden? We can design and build the perfect space for you.