Frequently asked questions


Patios, Retaining Walls, Outdoor Living

  • What does a typical patio or retaining wall cost in Northeast Ohio?

    In Northeast Ohio, most paver patios range from $5,000 to $20,000+ depending on size, materials, excavation needs, and drainage requirements. Retaining walls typically range from $4,000 to $25,000+ depending on height, length, and engineering needs.


    At MY Services LLC, we price projects based on:


    • Square footage

    • Access to your yard

    • Base preparation requirements

    • Drainage corrections

    • Material selection


    We provide a detailed estimate so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

  • How long does it take to install a patio or retaining wall?

    Most patios take 3 to 7 days once we begin construction.

    Retaining walls typically take 3 to 10 days depending on size and complexity.


    Weather, access, and inspection timelines can affect the schedule, but we give you a realistic timeline upfront and stick to it.

  • What materials do you recommend for Ohio’s freeze–thaw cycles?

    Freeze–thaw cycles are the biggest factor in Northeast Ohio.


    We recommend:


    • High quality concrete pavers over poured concrete

    • Segmental retaining wall block with proper base and drainage

    • Natural stone when properly installed with a reinforced base


    Poured concrete tends to crack over time in our climate. Properly installed pavers allow flexibility and long term durability.


    The key is not just the material. It is the base preparation underneath.

  • Do I need permits or HOA approval?

    Some cities require permits for retaining walls over a certain height or for structural work.


    We help you determine:


    • If a permit is required

    • If drawings or engineering are needed

    • What your HOA may require


    We handle the process so you are not guessing.

  • How do you handle drainage?

    Drainage is not optional. It is critical.


    Every patio and wall we build includes:


    • Proper base grading

    • Compacted aggregate base

    • Slope away from the house

    • Drain tile behind retaining walls

    • Downspout tie-ins when needed


    Water should move away from your foundation, not toward it.

  • Can you replace an old concrete slab with pavers?

    Yes. We remove the old slab, regrade, rebuild the base, and install a new paver system.


    This is one of the most common upgrades we do in Northeast Ohio.

  • How long should a retaining wall last?

    A properly built retaining wall with drainage and compacted base should last 25+ years.


    Most failures happen because:


    • No drainage behind the wall

    • Poor base compaction

    • Cheap block

    • No reinforcement


    We build them correctly from the ground up.

Landscaping & Maintenance

  • When is the best time to install landscaping?

    Spring and fall are ideal in Northeast Ohio.


    However, landscaping can be installed throughout most of the growing season as long as watering is managed properly.

  • Do you offer maintenance plans?

    Yes.


    After installation, we offer:


    • Mulch refresh

    • Bed maintenance

    • Pruning

    • Seasonal cleanups


    We can build a plan around your property needs.

  • What low maintenance plants work well here?

    We recommend:


    • Boxwoods

    • Hydrangeas

    • Spirea

    • Ornamental grasses

    • Hostas

    • Native perennials


    We choose plants that survive Ohio winters and require minimal upkeep.We use:


    • Skid steers

    • Mini excavators

    • Compact track loaders


    We take steps to minimize damage, but excavation work will disturb areas. After completion, we repair affected lawn areas as part of the project scope.

  • Can you redesign just the front yard?

    Absolutely.


    Many clients start with:


    • Front yard refresh

    • Entry walkway redesign

    • Foundation bed upgrade


    You do not need to commit to a full yard project.

  • When can I walk or mow after seeding?

    You should:


    • Avoid walking on seeded areas for 3 to 4 weeks

    • Wait until grass reaches 7 to 10 cm before first mow

    • Mow carefully and avoid sharp turns


    We provide aftercare instructions with every lawn install.

  • Are you insured?

    Yes.


    We carry liability insurance and take precautions to protect:


    • Your home

    • Neighboring properties

    • Landscaping

    • Driveways


    Safety is not negotiable.

  • What trees do you recommend planting?

    For shade and privacy in Northeast Ohio:


    • Maple varieties

    • Oak

    • Arborvitae

    • Spruce

    • Serviceberry


    We help choose trees based on soil, space, and long term growth.

Commercial Snow Plowing

  • What properties do you service?

    We service:


    • Small businesses

    • Medical offices

    • Retail lots

    • HOAs

    • Apartment complexes


    We focus on reliable commercial accounts.

  • Do you offer seasonal or per push?

    We offer both.


    • Seasonal contracts

    • Per push pricing

    • Custom agreements


    Seasonal contracts provide priority service during heavy storms.

  • What triggers a plow event?

    Most contracts trigger at 5 cm of accumulation, but this can be customized.

  • Do you salt and clear sidewalks?

    Yes.


    We provide:


    • Lot plowing

    • Sidewalk clearing

    • Salting and de icing


    Complete winter service coverage.

  • When will my property be cleared?

    Commercial properties are prioritized during storms.


    We monitor weather in real time and dispatch crews based on contract terms and safety needs.

  • When do you offer fall cleanups?

    Leaf cleanup typically runs from mid October through late November depending on weather.

  • Do you haul leaves away?

    Yes.


    We can:


    • Haul away

    • Bag for curb pickup

    • Compost onsite if requested

  • Can you combine leaf cleanup with trimming and mowing?

    Yes.


    We offer full fall cleanup packages that include:


    • Leaf removal

    • Final mow

    • Bed cleanup

    • Perennial cutback

  • One time or multiple visits?

    Both.


    Many Northeast Ohio properties require 2 to 3 visits due to staggered leaf drops.


    We can schedule based on your property needs.