Landscape Construction is like a Train!

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Imagine landscape construction as a colossal, slow-moving train. A couple of hefty locomotives lead the way, with boxcars trailing behind, all inching down the tracks. Sometimes, there’s a locomotive at the rear, nudging things forward. This massive train takes considerable time to pick up speed, but it takes equal time to halt. And no one can guarantee the halting will be graceful!

Landscape construction is much like a train.

It takes time to get a landscaping project up and running. The clients must approve the design and find a landscape contractor. Materials must be ordered, underground services must be located, permits must be obtained, and equipment must be moved to the site.  

And that’s just the start. 

Landscape construction typically involves more ‘removing’ than ‘building’ in the first few days. A competent landscape contractor will carefully plan and execute the site preparation, ensuring that every step aligns with the landscape specifications. This thorough approach is a crucial factor in determining the success or failure of a project, particularly in the context of stonework.

So, back to my locomotive theory.   

Someone had to carefully plan which boxcar went where and how many locomotives it would take to move the train forward. Similarly, successful landscape construction requires careful planning and execution, which takes time. It takes effort to ensure that all the components are aligned and working together smoothly. The planning and logistical work are completed well before the landscape contractor arrives at your site to dig the first hole.

You want to make a change to the plan?

Once we start construction and a client wants to change the approved landscape plan, the landscape train will slow down significantly or even come to a grinding halt. We may need to go back and adjust the drawings, which involves revisiting the design, making necessary changes, and getting them re-approved. This is followed by ordering more products, a process that includes identifying the new requirements, finding suitable suppliers, and ensuring timely delivery. These tasks take time and can disrupt the flow of our project. Our ‘nicely moving-along’ train barely moves as we change direction or move off the main tracks altogether.  On-site changes send everyone scrambling. With any luck, the landscape contractor can pull together the materials (usually more, not less) and the staffing to help keep the project moving forward. Basically, you’ve asked the landscape contractor to move the box cars around while the train is still moving.

Once landscape construction has started, significant changes to the design can lead to delays. For example, the contractor may remove their machines and crew from the site while they wait for materials to arrive.

Don’t complain. You asked for changes!

Make sure you understand your landscape plan.

Landscape construction takes time to pick up steam. When a client throws an obstacle on the tracks, like project changes, it takes time for the train to slow down, make those changes, and then pick up speed again.

Understand Your Landscape Plans!

You need to understand the landscape plans you have purchased and approved for construction. Check daily to see how the ongoing construction work is being completed. This is not the time to leave town, head to the cottage, or take a sunny vacation. Be at home to ask questions and give feedback on your project.

Because once the landscape project starts, it will be full steam ahead!

My Best Advice!

Lexi Dearborn

The Gabby Gardener

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