Our Comprehensive FAQ
General Questions
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes, we provide free estimates for all of our services. After an initial conversation, we’ll schedule an on-site visit to assess your property and discuss your vision in detail.
What areas do you serve?
Rscapes is based in Gainesville, GA and serves clients throughout the GA 400 corridor — including Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cumming, and all surrounding areas.
Are you licensed and insured?
Absolutely. Rscapes is fully licensed and insured for all landscape design and construction services we offer.
How long have you been in business?
Rscapes was founded in 2018 by Trevor Rouse, who has been trained in outdoor construction and landscaping since childhood.
What types of projects do you take on?
We handle everything from full landscape design and hardscaping installations to poolside makeovers, retaining walls, sod and planting, paver patios, and more. If it involves outdoor living, we likely do it.
Do you work with homeowners, builders, or both?
Both. We work directly with homeowners as well as home builders, remodelers, and developers on residential outdoor projects.
Is there a warranty on your work?
Yes — we back every project with a 1-Year Craftsmanship Warranty, covering workmanship and installation quality.
Do you offer financing?
Yes, we do offer financing options. If you’re interested, just reach out and we can connect you with one of our trusted lending partners.
How far out are you usually booked?
This can vary based on the time of year and project size. Smaller jobs may be scheduled within a few weeks, while full landscape builds typically require more lead time. Contact us for our current availability.
Landscape Design & Installation
What’s the difference between landscape design and installation?
Design is the planning phase — we create a custom layout for your yard, complete with plant choices, hardscape features, and elevations. Installation is the hands-on phase where we bring that design to life on your property.
Can you help me come up with ideas for my yard?
Absolutely. Whether you have a vision or don’t know where to start, we’ll guide you through design options that fit your space, goals, and budget.
Do you offer 2D or 3D design plans?
Yes. We offer both 2D layout plans and full 3D renderings depending on the scope of your project. 3D visuals are especially helpful for larger transformations or complex grading.
Is there a charge for the design?
Basic concepts may be included with your estimate, but full design plans — especially those involving 3D renderings or extensive planning — may require a design fee, which is credited toward your installation if you move forward.
How long does a typical design-and-installation project take?
Most projects take 1–3 weeks from ground-breaking to completion, depending on the scope. However, a complete backyard makeover can take substantially longer depending on the scope of the work. We’ll provide a timeline before we begin so you know exactly what to expect.
Can you install everything you design?
Yes — our team handles the full build process, including hardscapes, planting, sod, drainage work, lighting, and more. We’re a one-stop shop for transforming outdoor spaces.
Do I need HOA approval? Can you help with that?
If you’re in an HOA community, approval may be required. We’re happy to provide design plans and supporting documentation to help streamline the approval process.
Can you phase the project over time?
Yes, we can break your project into phases to match your budget or timing needs. Many clients start with structural elements (like patios or walls) and add plants or features later.
Do you design for sloped or tricky lots?
Definitely. We specialize in creating functional, beautiful designs for uneven or challenging terrain — including slopes, drainage zones, and oddly shaped yards.
Do you provide lighting and irrigation as part of the design?
We do. Our designs can include low-voltage lighting, irrigation zones, and drainage solutions so your landscape performs as good as it looks.
Hardscaping & Retaining Walls
What’s included in hardscaping?
Hardscaping refers to the non-living elements of your landscape — like retaining walls, walkways, fire pits, seating walls, steps, and decorative stone features. It’s what gives your outdoor space structure and function.
What materials do you use for hardscapes?
We work with high-quality materials including concrete block, natural stone, brick, pavers, and boulders. We’ll help you choose what best suits your style, budget, and the environment.
Do you build retaining walls?
Yes, retaining walls are one of our core services. We design and build functional and visually appealing walls for everything from erosion control to leveling a sloped yard.
Do I need a permit for a retaining wall?
In all counties we serve, any retaining wall over 4 feet tall requires a permit. These projects must include stamped drawings from a licensed engineer, and we can help coordinate that as part of the process.
Can retaining walls be decorative too?
Absolutely. While some walls are strictly functional, we also build decorative garden walls, seating walls, and integrated features that elevate your outdoor space aesthetically.
How long does a hardscape project take?
Depending on the complexity, most hardscape installations take between a few days to two weeks. We’ll provide a custom timeline before the project begins.
Can you match existing materials or styles?
Yes, we can often match or complement the look of existing hardscape features to ensure a seamless design across your property.
Pavers & Patios
What materials can I choose for a patio?
We install patios using pavers, natural stone, flagstone, concrete, and more. Each material offers a different look, feel, and price point — and we’ll help you choose the right fit for your space and goals.
Do paver patios last longer than poured concrete?
Yes. Pavers are more flexible and resistant to cracking than poured concrete. They’re also easier to repair — individual pavers can be replaced if needed without tearing out the whole surface.
Can you build custom shapes and patterns?
Absolutely. Pavers and flagstone allow for endless design possibilities — from curved edges and inlays to multi-color patterns and borders.
What’s involved in the base prep?
Proper base preparation is key to a long-lasting patio. We excavate, grade, and compact a gravel base before setting pavers or stone to ensure stability and prevent settling.
Can patios be added to existing landscapes?
Yes. Whether it’s a brand new install or an addition to your current space, we can integrate a patio into your landscape without starting from scratch.
Do you build steps or landings with patios?
We do. We can incorporate custom steps, landings, or tiered levels into your patio design, especially helpful for sloped yards or transitions to doorways.
Is sealing required for pavers or stone?
Sealing is optional but recommended for many paver and natural stone patios. It helps protect the color, prevent staining, and reduce weed growth between joints.
Planting & Sod Installation
What types of plants do you install?
We install a wide range of trees, shrubs, flowers, and ornamental grasses — all suited to the Georgia climate. We select plants based on sun exposure, drainage, and long-term growth to ensure lasting success.
Can you help me choose the right plants for my yard?
Yes. We’ll recommend plants that match your style preferences, seasonal interest goals, and maintenance expectations. Whether you want color year-round or a low-maintenance landscape, we’ve got you covered.
Do you handle all the soil prep and planting?
Absolutely. We handle everything from soil amendment and bed preparation to proper planting depth and mulching. Your plants will be installed to thrive.
What types of sod do you offer?
We install several varieties, including Bermuda, Zoysia, and Fescue. We’ll help you choose the right sod based on your property’s sun/shade exposure and how you plan to use the space.
Does sod need irrigation right away?
Yes. Newly laid sod must be watered heavily for the first 2–3 weeks. We’ll walk you through a proper watering schedule to ensure successful rooting — or we can install irrigation if needed.
Can you replace just part of my lawn with sod?
Of course. Whether it’s a full yard or just a high-traffic section that needs refreshing, we can tailor the project to your needs.
Do you offer seasonal flower or color installs?
Yes, we offer seasonal annual planting as an add-on to larger installs or on a case-by-case basis. Ask us about adding fresh color to entryways, beds, or planters.
Swimming Pool Services
Do you build swimming pools?
Yes, we design and build custom swimming pools — including high-end concrete pools finished with premium surfaces and features. From the initial layout to the final touches, we handle the full pool construction and the surrounding landscape to create a seamless, resort-style outdoor space.
Can you help with a full poolside makeover?
Absolutely. Whether you’re upgrading an older pool area or finishing out a new build, we design and install complete outdoor environments to transform your pool space.
Do you work with pool builders?
Yes. We frequently partner with pool contractors during the build process to ensure the surrounding landscape is finished professionally and seamlessly.
Can you install pavers or stone around pools?
Yes. We install pool decks using pavers, travertine, natural stone, or concrete — all with proper slope, drainage, and slip resistance in mind.
Do you handle grading and drainage around pools?
We do. Proper grading and drainage are critical around pool areas, and we ensure water flows safely away from structures and doesn’t cause pooling or erosion.
What about lighting for pool areas?
We can incorporate low-voltage lighting into the design to highlight features, steps, and walkways — creating both safety and ambiance for your pool area.
Can you add landscaping around my pool?
Definitely. We install privacy hedges, decorative plantings, and low-maintenance beds that complement the pool and soften hard edges.
Craftsmanship Warranty & Policies
Is there a warranty on your work?
Yes — every Rscapes project comes with a 1-Year Craftsmanship Warranty. This covers the quality of our installation and construction work, giving you peace of mind after the job is done.
What does the warranty cover?
It covers defects in workmanship — like settling hardscapes, improperly installed materials, or construction-related issues that arise within the first year. It does not cover damage from weather events, lack of maintenance, or natural wear and tear.
Do you warranty plants or sod?
Because plants and sod require ongoing care, we can’t guarantee their survival after installation. However, we’ll make sure everything is properly installed and provide guidance for watering and maintenance.
How do I request warranty service?
Just reach out through our contact form, phone, or email. We’ll schedule a time to assess the issue and make it right if it’s covered under the warranty.
Do I need to sign a contract?
Yes. All projects are outlined in a detailed contract that includes scope of work, materials, pricing, and timeline. This protects both you and us and ensures everyone is on the same page.
What’s your payment schedule?
Most projects follow a phased payment schedule: an initial deposit, a progress payment (if applicable), and a final payment upon completion. Details are included in your contract.
Are there any jobs you don’t take on?
We focus on larger outdoor projects and full-service transformations. We don’t typically take on minor repairs or “one-off” service calls outside of ongoing installations. But contact us and if we can’t help you, we’ll refer you to a reputable repairman that can.
