Frequently Asked Questions

At LiveWell Outdoors, we want to make sure you have all the answers you need to build your dream backyard. If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to call us at 301-720-1000 or email hello@livewelloutdoors.com.

General

The LiveWell difference is all about delivering an unparalleled luxury outdoor living experience through personalized attention, distinctive designs, virtual immersions, and a seamless process. We ensure every client gets a luxurious outdoor space and an extraordinary experience throughout the entire process​​.
We have been delivering luxury outdoor living experiences for over 20 years. During this time, we have successfully transformed countless outdoor spaces into personal paradises for our clients' satisfaction and enjoyment​​.
Absolutely! We always appreciate the question and encourage anyone embarking on a big home project to get references before choosing a contractor.

If you're interested in speaking with some of our previous clients, please let us know, and we’ll arrange for you to get in touch with them. We want you to have everything you need to make an informed decision about working with us.
Your experience and satisfaction are our top priorities, and we support you every step of the way, even after the project is complete.

Your project manager will conduct a final walkthrough with you, ensuring every detail meets your expectations and addressing any last-minute questions or adjustments. We then provide you with all necessary documentation, including maintenance instructions, warranties, and contact information for any future assistance.

Our commitment doesn’t end with the project completion; we offer ongoing support and are available to answer any questions about your new space. We value your feedback and will follow up to make sure you’re enjoying your piece of paradise.
Most definitely! We’ve worked with many clients in communities with HOAs and know how important it is to follow regulations.

During our initial meeting, we’ll discuss any specific HOA guidelines and requirements you need to follow for your project. We’ll thoroughly review your HOA's rules and restrictions, including any architectural review board requirements, to ensure our designs comply.

We’ll work closely with your HOA, submitting necessary plans and documents for approval before starting construction. This includes addressing any concerns or modifications requested by the HOA.

You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your project will be smooth and compliant with a stress-free process that allows you to enjoy your new outdoor space without any issues.

We proudly serve the following areas:

Maryland:

  • Howard County
  • Montgomery County
  • Anne Arundel County
  • Charles County
  • Prince George’s County
  • Calvert County

All neighborhoods within Washington, D.C

Northern Virginia

If you have any questions about specific locations or are just outside these areas, please schedule a consultation, call us at 301-720-1000, or email us at hello@livewelloutdoors.com. We'd be happy to discuss how we can assist you.

We offer a free consultation to help us understand your vision, preferences, and project goals. During this meeting, we’ll discuss your ideas and explore how we can bring your dream outdoor space to life.

Schedule a Consultation

Getting started with your project is straightforward and exciting. First, simply schedule a consultation. You can also call us at 301-720-1000 or email us at hello@livewelloutdoors.com. This consultation is a 20-minute discovery call where you can give us some basic information about your project, including your vision, preferences, and any specific features you’re interested in. 

We’ll then schedule another meeting at our showroom. Here, you’ll meet our experienced designers. They’ll review your ideas and dreams in the resource room, sharing similar designs and projects for inspiration.

You’ll walk through our outdoor display area to see different materials, feel their textures, and envision what they might look like in your space. The result of this meeting is a detailed design agreement that describes the scope of work and gets you to see your vision brought to life.

Check out our process page to learn what happens next!

Absolutely! We’re proud of the luxurious and personalized outdoor spaces we've created for our clients and love showing them off.

You can view our online portfolio to explore completed projects or connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.

We can also connect you with previous clients who are willing to share their experiences and provide firsthand feedback on our work. This can give you a deeper understanding of our process and the quality of our results.

We know how important it is to preserve your investment and keep your space looking fresh and maintained. That’s why we have a dedicated resources page with detailed information on maintaining various aspects of your outdoor space. You can also keep an eye on our blog for regular updates with various maintenance tips. 

If you have any questions or need further assistance, we’re happy to help. Feel free to contact us at any time. 

Plants and Materials

We offer a range of landscaping services to transform your outdoor space into a luxurious retreat, including:

  • Custom-designed pools that fit your style and act as an extension of your home. Options include standard pools, irregular-shaped pools, walk-in pools, dipping pools, and grottos.
  • Elegant and functional patios that enhance your outdoor space's beauty and usability.
  • High-quality decks that maximize your living space and complement your outdoor environment.
  • Fully equipped outdoor kitchens featuring built-in grills, cooktops, side burners, outdoor drawers, sinks, refrigerators, and more. Our custom countertops and stone veneer options ensure your outdoor kitchen is both functional and stylish.
  • Outdoor fireplaces that add warmth and ambiance, serving as a focal point for entertaining and enhancing your yard's overall appeal.
  • Beautifully designed gardens that incorporate a variety of plants and flowers to create a serene and inviting outdoor environment.
  • Various outdoor structures that add character and functionality to your space: gazebos, pergolas, arbors, pool houses, cabanas, porticos, fencing, and custom carpentry.

We use various high-quality materials for hardscaping to ensure durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Here are some of the materials we typically use:

  1. Pavers: Available in various styles, colors, and textures, pavers are versatile and can be used for patios, walkways, and driveways.
  2. Natural Stone: Materials like flagstone, bluestone, and slate are popular for their natural beauty and durability. They are ideal for patios, pathways, and garden features.
  3. Concrete: Pre-formed concrete products and custom-mixed concrete can be used for a wide range of applications, from sleek modern designs to more traditional looks. Stamped and colored concrete offers additional design flexibility.
  4. Brick: Classic and timeless—we use brick for patios, walkways, and retaining walls. It provides a warm and inviting aesthetic.
  5. Gravel: Used for pathways, driveways, and as a decorative element in gardens, gravel offers excellent drainage and a natural look.
  6. Composite Materials: We use composite materials like Fiberon Decking for decks and outdoor structures. These materials are low-maintenance, durable, and available in various finishes.
  7. Exotic Woods: For a luxurious touch, we use exotic woods like those from Advantage Lumber. These woods are known for their beauty and strength and are ideal for decks and outdoor structures.
  8. Stone Veneer: Used for outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and retaining walls, stone veneer provides the look of natural stone at a lower cost and weight.

By selecting the best materials for each project, your hardscaping will be beautiful and built to last.

Quality Assurance and Warranty Information

We make sure your experience working with us is as extraordinary as the results. There are a few ways we do so:

  1. Personal attention—we take the time to understand your unique vision, preferences, and lifestyle. This personalized approach ensures that your outdoor space is tailored to you.
  2. Clear and consistent communication is at the heart of our customer service. From the initial consultation to project completion, we keep you informed and involved every step of the way.
  3. Dedicated project managers are assigned to each project and oversee all aspects of the work, acting as a single point of contact to answer questions or address concerns.
  4. Expert guidance from experienced designers and craftspeople helps you make informed decisions that enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space.
  5. Post-project support means our commitment to you doesn’t end with project completion. We’ll follow up to make sure you’re enjoying your backyard paradise and will always be available to answer questions and help keep your outdoor space looking its best.
While we do our very best to prevent unexpected issues, we know that things can happen outside of our control. We also understand that changes can arise in a project and approach each project with flexibility and adaptability.

We keep open lines of communication throughout the project. Your dedicated project manager will work closely with you and our team to quickly identify and effectively address any changes or issues.

If unexpected changes or issues arise, we assess the situation, provide you with options, and work with you to determine the best course of action. If there are any project scope, timeline, or budget changes, we communicate these changes clearly and provide updated documentation for your review and approval.
Yes, we do. You deserve an outdoor living space that you can enjoy for many years to come, and we stand by the quality of our workmanship and materials.

We offer a 10-year warranty on the labor of all hardscape installations. Most manufacturers also provide warranties on their materials, and this information is available upon request. If any issues arise, we’re here to address them and ensure your complete satisfaction.
Choosing a licensed and insured contractor guarantees a professional, worry-free experience, ensuring your outdoor living space is beautiful and built to last.

Quality Assurance. A licensed contractor has met the standards and regulations set by the state or local authorities. You can be certain we have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to complete your job to the highest standards.

Financial Protection. Insurance protects you from financial loss in case of accidents or damages during the project. If a worker is injured on your property or your home is damaged, the contractor's insurance will cover the costs, not yours.

Legal Compliance. Licensed contractors are aware of and comply with all local building codes and regulations. When you work with us, you’ll know your project is legal and safe, preventing potential legal issues down the line.

Accountability. Licensed contractors are held accountable to a governing body. If issues arise, you have a recourse for complaints and resolutions. Unlicensed contractors can’t guarantee this higher level of professionalism and reliability.

Safety. As an insured contractor, we follow the best safety practices to avoid accidents. Doing so protects our workers and ensures the safety of your property and family during the construction process.

Lastly, work done by a licensed and insured contractor adds value to your home. Future buyers will have peace of mind knowing that the work was performed by a qualified professional, which can be a significant selling point.

Design-Build Process

Our design style focuses on creating luxurious, personalized outdoor spaces that blend functionality and aesthetics. We tailor each project to reflect your unique tastes and lifestyle, ensuring that your outdoor space is a true extension of you.

We also prioritize high-quality materials, craftsmanship, functionality, and comfort, creating lasting spaces that meet your needs for relaxation and entertainment. We aim to exceed expectations and deliver exceptional outdoor living experiences with our design style.

Our design-build process is one of the many things that sets us apart. It starts with a meeting where we explore your ideas and dreams. We’ll share similar designs and projects and walk you through our display area for inspiration. 

We then conduct a thorough site analysis, reviewing all building codes and creating a precise base-map drawing. Next, we bring your vision to life with a 3D virtual immersion tour, allowing you to see exactly how your outdoor space will look. You’ll select your favorite features, and we’ll finalize the details.

Once we get to work building, we’ll keep you informed about your project’s progress and make sure your experience is as extraordinary as the results. Visit our process page to learn more about how we use this process to create your luxury outdoor experience.

Yes, you will, and by doing so, you’ll have greater confidence that the project will be completed to the highest standards, with clear communication and accountability from start to finish.

The contract outlines the scope of work, timeline, and specific details of your project so you’ll have a complete understanding of what will be delivered. It also specifies the total cost, payment schedule, and any financing arrangements, providing transparency and helping you plan your budget. With information about warranties and guarantees on workmanship and materials, you’ll have peace of mind about the quality and durability of your investment.
Yes, you will have a dedicated project manager overseeing every aspect of your project. They will be your primary point of contact, answering all of your questions and making sure the project stays on track from start to finish.
Incorporating your ideas into the design is a fundamental part of our process. During our initial meeting, we listen carefully to your ideas, preferences, and goals for your outdoor space. This is your opportunity to share your vision, inspiration, and any specific requirements you have in mind.

We view the design process as a collaborative effort. Our experienced designers work closely with you, offering insights and suggestions while ensuring your ideas remain at the forefront. We then incorporate your ideas into detailed design plans, including sketches and 3D renderings. These visuals help you see how your concepts will look in the actual space, allowing for adjustments and refinements based on your feedback.

We also guide you through selecting materials, colors, and features that align with your vision. Whether it’s choosing the right plants, pavers, or outdoor kitchen appliances, your preferences are integral to the selection process. We ensure that every aspect of the plan reflects your ideas for a stunning outdoor design that you’ll love.

Financing, Permits, and Costs

Absolutely! We want to make it easier for you to invest in high-quality, luxurious outdoor spaces without the stress of upfront costs. 

We provide plans for different budgets and financial situations, like 12-month interest-free financing and low monthly payment plans. We can help connect you to the right financial partner who will guide you through the process and help you choose the best financing plan for your needs. 

Want to learn more about our financing options? Schedule a consultation, call us at 301-720-1000, or email us at hello@livewelloutdoors.com. If you're a current client, your design consultant can provide more information. 

While having an idea of your budget before starting your project is helpful, it’s not absolutely necessary. During our initial meeting, we’ll discuss your vision and ideas for your outdoor space to understand your preferences and scope, which can guide budget discussions.

We can work with you to develop a phased-in approach based on your budget, allowing you to prioritize different project elements over time. Our experienced designers can also provide guidance on what is achievable within various budget ranges and help you make informed decisions that align with your financial comfort.

We’re here to help you create a luxurious outdoor space that fits both your dreams and your financial plans​​.

Absolutely! We’re here to help make the permitting process as smooth as possible. Our team is well-versed in local building codes, regulations, and permit requirements and stays up-to-date with any changes.

During our initial consultation, we discuss the scope of your project and identify any necessary permits and approvals required by local authorities. We’ll prepare all the documentation for permit applications, including detailed plans, site analyses, and any other necessary paperwork. We handle the submission and follow up on the progress, communicating with permitting officials to address any questions or concerns that may arise.
Costs can be influenced by local market conditions, such as labor rates, regulatory requirements, and living costs in the area we serve. For instance, local building codes can be stricter than those in other states, making obtaining permits more expensive and adding to the overall cost.

We also aren’t a standard landscaping company. We’re all about creating a luxurious, custom-designed outdoor paradise that enhances your property and lifestyle.

To achieve that level of luxury, we use premium materials and a unique process that costs more than standard materials or pool installations. We tailor every design to your vision and property, which involves more intricate planning and execution.

Our services go beyond building a pool or landscaping. We create complete outdoor living environments that integrate seamlessly with your home's aesthetics and lifestyle, adding significant value and enjoyment.
We do charge design fees because they allow us to devote the necessary time and attention to creating a well-thought-out and personalized plan for your outdoor space. Our designers focus on a select number of serious clients each week rather than managing a high volume of free design requests. Doing so allows us to meticulously plan every detail of your project, leaving nothing overlooked.

Failing to account for a single element, like an electric line, can lead to significant additional costs—potentially thousands of dollars. We know how important it is to avoid unexpected expenses, and our detailed designs help to mitigate this risk. We’ve found our clients view the design fee as a worthwhile investment to ensure they receive the backyard of their dreams.

Construction and Site Management

  • Daily Communication and Updates

Your dedicated project manager will contact you regularly to provide updates on progress and address any questions or concerns you may have.

  • On-Site Activity

Construction crews typically arrive early in the morning to begin work. They will follow a consistent schedule to ensure the project stays on track. There will be noise from machinery, tools, and general construction work, but nothing too excessive. You can also expect to see safety barriers, signs, and other protective measures in place to ensure the safety of the crew and anyone around the site.

  • Site Management

Our crew will keep the worksite as tidy as possible, cleaning up at the end of each day to minimize disruption and maintain safety. You’ll notice equipment and materials stored on-site. We take care to organize these to reduce clutter and keep them secure.

  • Access and Security

Certain areas may be restricted for safety reasons. We will mark these areas and inform you of any access limitations. We take every precaution to protect your existing landscaping and property features from damage during construction.

  • Crew Interaction

All of our team are courteous and professional. Feel free to communicate any immediate concerns to the crew, but major questions should be directed to your project manager.

We respect your privacy and strive to minimize any inconvenience. The crew will only be in designated work areas for minimal disruption to your daily routine.

  • Progress and Inspections

Your project manager will conduct regular inspections to ensure work is progressing according to plan and adhering to quality standards. We’ll arrange periodic reviews at key milestones to review the progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Our team follows best practices and safety protocols, attends regular training sessions to stay updated on the latest safety standards and techniques, and adheres to all local, state, and federal safety regulations and building codes.

Before starting any project, we conduct thorough site assessments to identify potential hazards and plan accordingly. We use appropriate safety equipment and gear for all construction activities, including personal protective equipment (PPE) for our workers and safety barriers and signage to keep the area secure. 

We secure the worksite at the end of each day to prevent unauthorized access by locking up tools and equipment and making sure the site is clean and free of hazards. We also have emergency preparedness protocols in place, including first aid and emergency contact procedures, with our team trained to respond quickly and effectively to any emergencies that may arise. 

Get Inspired!

Check out our free luxury Outdoor Oasis Dream Guide with some amazing ideas for building your luxury experience.
View it Now
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram