Frequently Asked Questions, and Guides for the Consumer.

Questions:

1.  How much money should I spend to landscape my property?

    Typically  the average house owner should spend between  10 - 15% of their property value to landscape.

2.  Who regulates the industry?     There is no functioning body which regulates the landscaping construction industry.  The "Better Business Bureau" is the only independent 3rd party body which will help you choose a credible and ethical company. 

3.  What should I look for in a contractor?    

a) How long have they been consistently working and involved in the industry.  What type of knowledge to they have and do they have any credentials relevant to the construction trade.    

b) Are they a licensed company? Are they insured and bonded? Are they up to date on WCB payments? Do they only accept cash payments?  This is essential as accidents will happen and unfortunate situations do occur. Your money and best interests should be protected at all times.    

c) Are they involved with 3rd party organizations, such as "Better Business Bureau", "Calgary Horticulture Society", "Alberta Construction & Safety Association", "LANTA", "Canadian Certified Horticulture Technician", etc, etc...    

d) References, References, References.  Check to see if they've done any work in your area and look at the finished product.  Any respectable contractor will have a portfolio of their work, ask to see it.    

e) Warranties.  Do they warranty their work?  How long do they warranty their work?    

f) Professionalism.  Are they on time?  Do they use current equipment?

4.  When should I plan to do my landscaping?     Typically, one should plan their landscaping towards the end of January.  Assess what there needs are for the property.  Research and look for a contractor in early spring.  Project plan for the summer months and build before the end of the fall season.

5.  Where can I find these contractors?     The best place to check contractors is during the "Calgary Home and Garden Show" and during the "Spring Time Serenade". Both trade shows take place late winter, early spring at the Round Up Center.

6.  Why Almac?    We are members with the BBB, CHS, ACSA. We teach courses at the U of C, and through Continuing Education. We Teach instructional seminars at Burnco. Our staff is well trained and qualified. Our equipment is current and well maintained. We are insured, licensed, and bonded. We warranty our work, by offering a 3year guarantee on all hard construction. We are professional and courteous. When a project is started, the team will not leave until the project is completed. We have been in business since 1985, 20 years!  We have numerous references and have done work all over the Calgary area, ranging from $2,000 in value to $200, 000.

    Almac can create "curb appeal". A well designed yard can raise the value of your property. You will appreciate it more and take advantage of it on a regular basis.

    Guides:

Common mistakes and some helpful hints.

    - Know what materials are appropriate for your project.  Alberta's climate and geographical location has a major influence on various materials and construction techniques.

    - Know your property and construction limitations.  Many communities have architectural guidelines which must be followed.  City bylaws and construction codes need to be maintained and enforced when doing work on your property.

    - Call before you dig.  Alberta 1 Call is a free service, they will mark out the various utility lines located on your property.  This can save you money and possibly prevent any injury that you may sustain when working in your yard.

    - Use the right tools.  This saves time and effort.

    - Elevation and slope.  The higher your property is when compared to your neighbors, the better.  You want to encourage the flow of water AWAY from your house.  Water which does not drain away can "pool" and create extensive damage.  Many projects have been ruined as a result of water not being able to flow away.

    - Work with you neighbor, as many projects requires co-operation from both parties.  Also, they may be able to share on the cost of a joint project.

Some Pictures to illustrate common mistakes and teach some basic construction knowledge....