You've decided that it's the season for landscaping, but you need to fit in your next project between all the busyness of life. How long do landscaping projects like patios, lighting installation, lot clearing, and sod installation take? We give you the timelines and the process.
Different Landscaping Projects
How long does landscaping take in Wilmington, DE? Landscaping isn't a one-size-fits-all process. Project durations vary depending on what you’re having done. Here's what you can typically expect from some of our most common services:
- Building a patio: 2–4 weeks
- Grading and drainage: 1–2 days
- Landscape lighting: 1–1½ days
- Outdoor Fireplaces: 1 month
- Outdoor Kitchens: 1 month
- Planting: 2 full days
- Pergolas: 1–3 weeks
- Retaining Walls: 1–4 weeks
- Sod installation: 1 day
- Stairs and Landings: 1–4 weeks
Once design and materials are finalized, each project receives a custom timeline. Of course, if you wait until the busy season to get on the books, your project might take longer to start. Factor this into your plans when you're considering when to reach out.
Project Management
Well-executed landscaping starts long before the first paver is laid. Every successful project follows a clear plan with communication and accountability at every step. We achieve this by being experts in project management, which gives us an easy guide to follow.
Here’s what our landscaping project management includes:
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Assigned project manager at contract signing
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Detailed landscape schedule with defined milestones
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Weekly updates on material deliveries, weather delays, or adjustments
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Dedicated point of contact from design through walkthrough
When Should You Schedule Landscaping?
We recommend reaching out as soon as possible before your desired start date, especially during spring and summer. These seasons book fast, and early planning allows time for design, approvals, and ordering materials.
If you’re planning a new landscape endeavor, coordinating with your contractor early can avoid delays and ensure the timing aligns with your build timeline.
Our Landscape Installation Services
Our full-service landscape design and installation services in Wilmington, DE, include:
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Lot clearing
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Grading and drainage
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Walkways and patios
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Sod installation
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Landscape lighting
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Plantings and trees
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Outdoor kitchens and structures
We handle both residential and new construction landscaping, managing the full landscaping construction process from start to finish. When you work with our team, you work with a group of experts focused on the best outcomes.
Landscaping Timelines
Let's flesh out the timelines we gave at the start of this article. What goes into these timelines, and why do they matter? You'll notice that most of these timelines are a range, and that depends on a variety of factors, including weather, materials, and the size of the project.
Building a Patio
How long does it take to build a patio? For most residential projects, building a patio takes between 2 and 4 weeks, depending on:
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Size of the patio
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Material choice (porcelain, bluestone, pavers)
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Site access and prep work
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Weather conditions
Complex patios with integrated lighting, retaining walls, walkways, or steps may take longer, but we always provide a realistic timeline during the estimate phase.
Grading and Drainage
Grading and drainage begin with evaluating the site’s slope, soil type, and natural water flow. The process starts by reshaping the terrain to ensure water moves away from structures and toward designated drainage areas. On average, grading and drainage services take around 1 week in Wilmington, Delaware.
Depending on the site, this may include excavating high points, filling low spots, and creating swales or slopes. We then install drainage systems, like French drains, catch basins, or dry wells, to control runoff and prevent erosion. The result is a stable, well-drained foundation ready for landscaping.
Lighting Systems
One of the most impactful upgrades you can make to your yard is installing a lighting system. We design and install systems that enhance safety, ambiance, and nighttime curb appeal.
How long does it take to install landscape lighting? Most outdoor lighting installs take 1 to 1½ days, depending on the size of the system and how the wiring needs to be run. At First Class Lawncare LLC, we offer:
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Path and step lighting
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Uplighting for trees and structures
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Deck and patio illumination
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Zoned lighting controls for convenience
Laying Sod
Our sod laying services provides instant impact and a polished finish. For prepared areas, sod installation can be completed in a single day. After installation, we provide watering guidelines and care tips to help the sod take root quickly and evenly.
It's important to lay sod at the right time so that you don't waste the investment. We can guide you toward the correct timeline when you work with our team.
Outdoor Fireplaces
An outdoor fireplace typically takes around 1 month to complete. The process starts with design, material selection, foundation prep, and custom masonry work.
Depending on the style, this may include firebrick, stone veneer, and a chimney structure. Our team ensures seamless integration with your existing patio or landscape.
Outdoor Kitchens
An outdoor kitchen is a larger investment that typically takes around 1 month to build. After design and permitting, we prepare the site, pour concrete or stone footings, and build the structural frame. From there, we install countertops, appliances, sinks, storage, and custom finishes.
Plumbing, gas lines, and electrical work add complexity and must meet code. Every detail is handled with care, delivering a fully functional cooking space built for daily use and outdoor entertaining.
Pergolas
Pergolas add shade, structure, and style to any outdoor space. Depending on size, materials, and custom features, most installations take 1 to 3 weeks.
The process begins with site prep and layout, followed by posts and framing installation. Custom touches like privacy screens, lighting, or roofing can slightly extend the timeline.
Planting
Your beautiful backyard needs plants and greenery to make it just right. Planting everything needed in a backyard takes around two full days. We want to do it right the first time so that your vegetation has the best chance possible of survival.
Retaining Walls
Retaining walls do more than hold back soil; they add structure, elevation, and visual interest to your landscape. Smaller walls under 4 feet can be installed in less than 1 week, while larger engineered walls may take closer to 4 weeks, especially on sloped or complex sites.
We handle everything from excavation and base prep to drainage and block installation. Each wall is carefully designed for strength, function, and long-term stability, which is especially important in variable terrain.
Stairs and Landings
Outdoor stairs and landings are essential for safe, stylish elevation changes in your landscape. Installations typically take 1–4 weeks, depending on the number of steps, material choice, and existing grade. The process includes excavation, formwork, leveling, and finish work such as lighting or handrails.
Whether it’s connecting your patio to your yard or building access from a walkout basement, our team delivers steps that are both functional and flawlessly finished.
The Order of Operations
Understanding the order of operations for landscaping services can help set expectations and prevent surprises. Here’s the general sequence we follow:
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Consultation and design
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Permitting and approvals
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Lot clearing and grading
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Drainage systems
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Hardscape installation
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Lighting system installation
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Planting and sod
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Final walkthrough and post-project care
Each step is scheduled to protect previously completed work and avoid delays. This is one of the perks of working with our experienced team. We don't waste your time, and we do the job right the first time.
Choosing the Right Landscaper in Wilmington, DE
Choosing the right landscaper means trusting a team with a solid process, a proven portfolio, and deep expertise in your area. We can tell you how long your project will take and even guide you on what your landscaping design and installation will cost.
At First Class Lawncare LLC, we bring everything you need to every project across Wilmington, DE, and nearby towns. Our streamlined design-build process gives you clarity at every step, while our portfolio reflects the quality and craftsmanship we’re known for. We know our service area, we know outdoor living, and we get it done right. Take a look at our Outdoor Living Guide and start living your best life outdoors.
Contact Us
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Your landscaping project awaits.
