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.
Dirt Work, Grading & Excavation
How do I know if my yard needs regrading?
Signs include:
• Water pooling after rain
• Basement moisture issues
• Mud near the foundation
• Erosion or exposed roots
If water sits against your home, grading is likely needed.
Can you fix wet or muddy areas?
Yes.
We correct these issues using:
• Regrading
• French drains
• Swales
• Downspout extensions
• Catch basins
We diagnose the source before recommending a solution.
What equipment do you use and will it damage my lawn?
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.
Do you install French drains and downspout extensions?
Yes.
We regularly install:
• French drains
• Solid drain lines
• Pop up emitters
• Swales
• Downspout extensions
All designed to move water away from your foundation.
How long does grading take?
Most residential grading projects take 1 to 3 days depending on size and drainage corrections.
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.
Tree Removal & Planting
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
It depends on your city.
Some Northeast Ohio municipalities require permits for large or street facing trees. We help you verify local regulations before removal.
Should a tree be removed or pruned?
Removal may be needed if:
• The tree is dead or diseased
• There is structural cracking
• It is leaning significantly
• Roots are damaging foundations
If the tree is healthy, pruning is often the better option.
How long does tree removal take?
Most residential tree removals take:
• Half a day to 1 day
We haul away all wood and debris unless you request to keep firewood.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.
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.
Leaf Removal
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.


