Question 1

What areas in Ontario does Lush Landscape Service cover?

Accepted Answer

We serve homeowners across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area including Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, Milton, Toronto, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Georgetown, and Brampton. Our crews are based locally in these communities, so we understand the soil conditions, bylaws, and climate challenges specific to each city. If your property falls outside these areas but is within the Golden Horseshoe, contact us to confirm availability.

Question 2

Do I need a building permit for a patio or driveway in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

In most Ontario municipalities, a standard interlocking paver patio or driveway replacement within the existing footprint does not require a building permit. However, you will need a permit if you are changing the driveway width, modifying the curb cut, building structures over a certain height, or working within a regulated conservation area. Requirements vary by municipality, so we verify permit needs for every project before starting work. You can check general Ontario Building Code requirements at ontario.ca/page/building-code.

Question 3

How much does a typical landscaping project cost in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary significantly by project type and scope. As general ranges: interlocking driveways run $22 to $38 per square foot, patios $20 to $35 per square foot, stamped concrete $15 to $25 per square foot, retaining walls $40 to $80 per linear foot per foot of height, and sod installation $2.50 to $4.50 per square foot. These ranges include materials, labour, excavation, and base preparation. We provide detailed, itemized quotes specific to your property after an on-site assessment.

Question 4

How do I get started with my landscaping project?

Accepted Answer

Getting started is simple. Submit a free estimate request through our website or call our office. We will schedule an on-site consultation within a few days, where we assess your property, discuss your goals, and take measurements. Within 48 hours after the visit, you receive a detailed written proposal. Once you approve the quote and sign the contract, we schedule your project and order materials. From initial contact to project start typically takes 2 to 6 weeks depending on the season.

Question 5

What types of landscaping services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We specialize in four core categories: Interlock and Specialty Paving (driveways, patios, walkways, pool decks), Concrete Services (stamped, exposed aggregate, plain concrete), Structural Hardscape and Repair (retaining walls, steps, foundation waterproofing), and Softscaping and Lifestyle Enhancements (garden design, sod installation, outdoor kitchens, landscape lighting). Each service is tailored to your property and local conditions. Visit our Services page for detailed information about each offering.

Question 6

Are you licensed and insured for landscaping work in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Lush Landscape Service carries full commercial general liability insurance and WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage for all our crews. We are members of Landscape Ontario, the provincial trade association that sets industry standards for quality and professionalism. You can verify Landscape Ontario membership at landscapeontario.com. We provide proof of insurance to every client before work begins.

Question 7

What warranty do you provide on your landscaping work?

Accepted Answer

We provide a 10-year workmanship warranty on all hardscaping installations including interlocking, concrete, and retaining walls. This covers structural integrity, base settlement, and joint stability under normal residential use. Paver and material manufacturers such as Unilock, Techo-Bloc, and Permacon provide additional product warranties, often lifetime, that supplement our workmanship coverage. Softscaping installations carry a 1-year plant health guarantee with proper watering compliance.

Question 8

What makes Lush Landscape different from other landscaping companies?

Accepted Answer

Three things set us apart: First, we are local operators who live and work in the communities we serve, so we understand specific soil conditions, bylaws, and climate challenges. Second, our 10-year workmanship warranty is among the strongest in Ontario. Third, we use only CSA-certified materials and follow ICPI (Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute) standards for every installation, ensuring your project is built to last through decades of Ontario weather.

Question 9

Do I need a permit for a retaining wall in Mississauga?

Accepted Answer

In Mississauga, retaining walls over 1.0 metre in retained height require a building permit from City of Mississauga Building Division. Walls near watercourses or within regulated areas also require approval from Credit Valley Conservation (CVC). Engineering drawings are required for walls over 1.0 metre. We coordinate all permitting requirements as part of our project scope so you do not have to manage the approval process yourself.

Question 10

What soil conditions affect landscaping in Vaughan?

Accepted Answer

Vaughan sits predominantly on heavy Newmarket Till clay, one of the densest clay soils in the GTA. This clay is extremely hard to excavate and has high shrink-swell characteristics. Properties in Woodbridge, Kleinburg, Maple, and Thornhill all face similar clay challenges. Proper drainage is essential as this clay holds water rather than allowing it to percolate. We use deeper excavation (18 to 20 inches minimum) and enhanced drainage systems for all Vaughan installations.

Question 11

How much does an interlocking driveway cost in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

Interlocking driveway costs in Hamilton typically range from $22 to $38 per square foot installed, depending on paver selection, pattern complexity, and site conditions. Properties with clay-heavy glacial till over Queenston shale may require additional base preparation, which affects the total project cost. We provide detailed, itemized estimates after an on-site assessment of your specific lot. Most standard two-car driveways in Hamilton fall between $12,000 and $25,000 including excavation, base material, pavers, and polymeric sand.

Question 12

How much does a concrete driveway cost in Richmond Hill?

Accepted Answer

Concrete driveway costs in Richmond Hill range from $12 to $25 per square foot depending on the finish. Broom-finish is the most affordable, exposed aggregate falls in the middle range, and stamped concrete with colour hardener is at the higher end. Most two-car driveways in Richmond Hill cost between $8,000 and $18,000 fully installed including excavation, base preparation, and forming.

Question 13

How much does sod installation cost in Mississauga?

Accepted Answer

Sod installation in Mississauga typically costs $3 to $6 per square foot including topsoil, grading, and Kentucky Bluegrass sod. Full lawn renovation that includes subgrade correction, drainage grading, 4 to 6 inches of Triple-Mix, and premium sod ranges from $5 to $8 per square foot. Larger lots in Port Credit, Lorne Park, Erin Mills, and Meadowvale often benefit from volume pricing on material delivery.

Question 14

What soil conditions affect landscaping in Richmond Hill?

Accepted Answer

Richmond Hill has heavy clay in the southern urban areas transitioning to sandy glacial deposits on the Oak Ridges Moraine in the north. Properties in South Richvale and Bayview Hill sit on dense clay requiring extensive base preparation. Northern areas near Oak Ridges benefit from better-draining sandy soils but face different drainage challenges. The Oak Ridges Moraine is a critical groundwater recharge area with strict development regulations.

Question 15

How much does an interlocking patio cost in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

Interlocking patio costs in Hamilton range from $20 to $35 per square foot for a standard installation. Complex projects with outdoor kitchens, fire pits, seating walls, and integrated lighting can range from $35 to $60+ per square foot. The clay-heavy glacial till over Queenston shale on many Hamilton properties may require additional drainage engineering that affects the total budget.

Question 16

How much does a stamped concrete patio cost in Richmond Hill?

Accepted Answer

Stamped concrete patio costs in Richmond Hill range from $16 to $30 per square foot, depending on pattern complexity, colour selection, and site preparation. A typical 300 to 400 square foot backyard patio runs $5,000 to $12,000 fully installed. Plain broom-finish concrete is more affordable at $10 to $16 per square foot. The heavy clay in the south with sandy glacial deposits on Oak Ridges Moraine on Richmond Hill lots may require additional base work.

Question 17

How much does artificial turf cost in Mississauga?

Accepted Answer

Artificial turf installation in Mississauga typically costs $12 to $22 per square foot fully installed, including excavation, aggregate base, geotextile fabric, turf, and infill. Pet-friendly installations with antimicrobial infill cost slightly more. Putting greens range from $18 to $30 per square foot due to specialized turf profiles and contouring work. We provide exact pricing after an on-site assessment.

Question 18

What soil conditions affect landscaping in Georgetown?

Accepted Answer

Georgetown has silty clay loam with glacial cobble near the Credit River. The Credit River valley creates variable soil conditions with some areas having rocky substrata that affects excavation. New development areas may have compacted clay fill. Older Georgetown properties near downtown tend to have more established, workable soil. We assess site conditions at every Georgetown property and adjust our approach accordingly.

Question 19

How much do interlocking walkways and steps cost in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

Interlocking walkway costs in Hamilton typically range from $25 to $40 per square foot, depending on width, pattern, and material selection. Steps with reinforced concrete cores and paver or stone cladding add $800 to $2,500 per set depending on width and riser count. Properties with significant grade changes common in Niagara Escarpment elevation changes may require additional structural work.

Question 20

How much does interlock restoration cost in Richmond Hill?

Accepted Answer

Interlock restoration and sealing in Richmond Hill typically costs $4 to $8 per square foot, depending on the condition of the existing surface and the sealer type selected. A standard two-car driveway restoration runs $2,500 to $5,500 including pressure washing, polymeric sand replacement, and sealer application. This is significantly less expensive than full replacement.

Question 21

What plants grow well in Mississauga?

Accepted Answer

As a Zone 6a municipality, Mississauga supports a wide range of hardy perennials, ornamental grasses, flowering shrubs, and shade trees. Popular choices include Echinacea, Black-Eyed Susan, Hostas, Hydrangeas, Karl Foerster grass, and native shrubs like Ninebark and Serviceberry. We select cultivars proven in Zone 6a conditions and source from Ontario-accredited nurseries.

Question 22

What soil conditions affect landscaping in Brampton?

Accepted Answer

Brampton sits on heavy Halton Till clay with high shrink-swell potential, making it one of the most challenging soil environments in the GTA for hardscaping. This clay expands significantly when saturated and contracts when dry, creating frost heave risk for improperly installed surfaces. Properties in Heart Lake, Mount Pleasant, Castlemore, and Springdale all face similar clay challenges. We use enhanced base depths (18 to 20 inches), geotextile fabric separation, and robust drainage systems for all Brampton installations.

Question 23

What types of natural stone do you install in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

We work with Ontario-quarried Eramosa limestone, Algonquin flagstone, Muskoka granite, Owen Sound ledgerock, and Wiarton bluestone. We also install imported materials including Muskoka granite and premium European stone on request. Every stone is selected for colour consistency, thickness uniformity, and structural integrity before it reaches your Hamilton property.

Question 24

How much does interlock repair cost in Richmond Hill?

Accepted Answer

Lift-and-relay repair in Richmond Hill typically costs $8 to $18 per square foot for the affected area, depending on the extent of damage and root cause. Most residential repairs cover 50 to 200 square feet and run $1,500 to $4,000. This is significantly less than full driveway replacement and preserves your existing pavers and their naturally weathered appearance.

Question 25

How much does landscape lighting cost in Mississauga?

Accepted Answer

Landscape lighting projects in Mississauga typically range from $3,500 for a basic path and entry package (8 to 12 fixtures) to $12,000+ for comprehensive whole-property illumination. Each brass or marine-grade aluminum fixture installed runs $250 to $600 including the transformer share, wiring, and installation. We design systems that can be expanded later without requiring transformer upgrades.

Question 26

Are porcelain pavers frost-proof for Hamilton winters?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The 20mm porcelain pavers we install have zero water absorption (less than 0.5%), which makes them immune to freeze-thaw damage. Unlike natural stone or concrete pavers that absorb moisture and can spall after repeated freezing, porcelain pavers maintain their surface integrity through the 150 cm of annual snowfall that Hamilton receives. They are certified to ASTM C1026 freeze-thaw standards.

Question 27

Do I need a permit for a retaining wall in Richmond Hill?

Accepted Answer

In Richmond Hill, retaining walls over 1.0 metre in retained height require a building permit from City of Richmond Hill Planning and Building Services. Walls near watercourses or within regulated areas also require approval from Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). Engineering drawings are required for walls over 1.0 metre. We coordinate all permitting requirements as part of our project scope so you do not have to manage the approval process yourself.

Question 28

How much does an interlocking driveway cost in Milton?

Accepted Answer

Interlocking driveway costs in Milton typically range from $22 to $38 per square foot installed, depending on paver selection, pattern complexity, and site conditions. Properties with clay loam on lowlands with thin soil over shale near escarpment may require additional base preparation, which affects the total project cost. We provide detailed, itemized estimates after an on-site assessment of your specific lot. Most standard two-car driveways in Milton fall between $12,000 and $25,000 including excavation, base material, pavers, and polymeric sand.

Question 29

How much does a concrete driveway cost in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

Concrete driveway costs in Hamilton range from $12 to $25 per square foot depending on the finish. Broom-finish is the most affordable, exposed aggregate falls in the middle range, and stamped concrete with colour hardener is at the higher end. Most two-car driveways in Hamilton cost between $8,000 and $18,000 fully installed including excavation, base preparation, and forming.

Question 30

How much does sod installation cost in Richmond Hill?

Accepted Answer

Sod installation in Richmond Hill typically costs $3 to $6 per square foot including topsoil, grading, and Kentucky Bluegrass sod. Full lawn renovation that includes subgrade correction, drainage grading, 4 to 6 inches of Triple-Mix, and premium sod ranges from $5 to $8 per square foot. Larger lots in South Richvale, Oak Ridges, Bayview Hill, and Jefferson often benefit from volume pricing on material delivery.

Question 31

How much does an interlocking patio cost in Milton?

Accepted Answer

Interlocking patio costs in Milton range from $20 to $35 per square foot for a standard installation. Complex projects with outdoor kitchens, fire pits, seating walls, and integrated lighting can range from $35 to $60+ per square foot. The clay loam on lowlands with thin soil over shale near escarpment on many Milton properties may require additional drainage engineering that affects the total budget.

Question 32

How much does a stamped concrete patio cost in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

Stamped concrete patio costs in Hamilton range from $16 to $30 per square foot, depending on pattern complexity, colour selection, and site preparation. A typical 300 to 400 square foot backyard patio runs $5,000 to $12,000 fully installed. Plain broom-finish concrete is more affordable at $10 to $16 per square foot. The clay-heavy glacial till over Queenston shale on Hamilton lots may require additional base work.

Question 33

How much does artificial turf cost in Richmond Hill?

Accepted Answer

Artificial turf installation in Richmond Hill typically costs $12 to $22 per square foot fully installed, including excavation, aggregate base, geotextile fabric, turf, and infill. Pet-friendly installations with antimicrobial infill cost slightly more. Putting greens range from $18 to $30 per square foot due to specialized turf profiles and contouring work. We provide exact pricing after an on-site assessment.

Question 34

How much do interlocking walkways and steps cost in Milton?

Accepted Answer

Interlocking walkway costs in Milton typically range from $25 to $40 per square foot, depending on width, pattern, and material selection. Steps with reinforced concrete cores and paver or stone cladding add $800 to $2,500 per set depending on width and riser count. Properties with significant grade changes common in escarpment edge and new suburban development may require additional structural work.

Question 35

How much does interlock restoration cost in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

Interlock restoration and sealing in Hamilton typically costs $4 to $8 per square foot, depending on the condition of the existing surface and the sealer type selected. A standard two-car driveway restoration runs $2,500 to $5,500 including pressure washing, polymeric sand replacement, and sealer application. This is significantly less expensive than full replacement.

Question 36

What plants grow well in Richmond Hill?

Accepted Answer

As a Zone 5b municipality, Richmond Hill supports a wide range of hardy perennials, ornamental grasses, flowering shrubs, and shade trees. Popular choices include Echinacea, Black-Eyed Susan, Hostas, Hydrangeas, Karl Foerster grass, and native shrubs like Ninebark and Serviceberry. We select cultivars proven in Zone 5b conditions and source from Ontario-accredited nurseries.

Question 37

What types of natural stone do you install in Milton?

Accepted Answer

We work with Ontario-quarried Eramosa limestone, Algonquin flagstone, Muskoka granite, Owen Sound ledgerock, and Wiarton bluestone. We also install imported materials including Muskoka granite and premium European stone on request. Every stone is selected for colour consistency, thickness uniformity, and structural integrity before it reaches your Milton property.

Question 38

How much does interlock repair cost in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

Lift-and-relay repair in Hamilton typically costs $8 to $18 per square foot for the affected area, depending on the extent of damage and root cause. Most residential repairs cover 50 to 200 square feet and run $1,500 to $4,000. This is significantly less than full driveway replacement and preserves your existing pavers and their naturally weathered appearance.

Question 39

How much does landscape lighting cost in Richmond Hill?

Accepted Answer

Landscape lighting projects in Richmond Hill typically range from $3,500 for a basic path and entry package (8 to 12 fixtures) to $12,000+ for comprehensive whole-property illumination. Each brass or marine-grade aluminum fixture installed runs $250 to $600 including the transformer share, wiring, and installation. We design systems that can be expanded later without requiring transformer upgrades.

Question 40

Are porcelain pavers frost-proof for Milton winters?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The 20mm porcelain pavers we install have zero water absorption (less than 0.5%), which makes them immune to freeze-thaw damage. Unlike natural stone or concrete pavers that absorb moisture and can spall after repeated freezing, porcelain pavers maintain their surface integrity through the 130 cm of annual snowfall that Milton receives. They are certified to ASTM C1026 freeze-thaw standards.

Question 41

Do I need a permit for a retaining wall in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

In Hamilton, retaining walls over 1.0 metre in retained height require a building permit from City of Hamilton Planning & Economic Development. Walls near watercourses or within regulated areas also require approval from Hamilton Conservation Authority (HCA). Engineering drawings are required for walls over 1.0 metre. We coordinate all permitting requirements as part of our project scope so you do not have to manage the approval process yourself.

Question 42

How much does an interlocking driveway cost in Georgetown?

Accepted Answer

Interlocking driveway costs in Georgetown typically range from $22 to $38 per square foot installed, depending on paver selection, pattern complexity, and site conditions. Properties with silty clay loam with glacial cobble near Credit River may require additional base preparation, which affects the total project cost. We provide detailed, itemized estimates after an on-site assessment of your specific lot. Most standard two-car driveways in Georgetown fall between $12,000 and $25,000 including excavation, base material, pavers, and polymeric sand.

Question 43

How much does a concrete driveway cost in Milton?

Accepted Answer

Concrete driveway costs in Milton range from $12 to $25 per square foot depending on the finish. Broom-finish is the most affordable, exposed aggregate falls in the middle range, and stamped concrete with colour hardener is at the higher end. Most two-car driveways in Milton cost between $8,000 and $18,000 fully installed including excavation, base preparation, and forming.

Question 44

How much does sod installation cost in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

Sod installation in Hamilton typically costs $3 to $6 per square foot including topsoil, grading, and Kentucky Bluegrass sod. Full lawn renovation that includes subgrade correction, drainage grading, 4 to 6 inches of Triple-Mix, and premium sod ranges from $5 to $8 per square foot. Larger lots in Westdale, Dundas, Ancaster, and Stoney Creek often benefit from volume pricing on material delivery.

Question 45

How much does an interlocking patio cost in Georgetown?

Accepted Answer

Interlocking patio costs in Georgetown range from $20 to $35 per square foot for a standard installation. Complex projects with outdoor kitchens, fire pits, seating walls, and integrated lighting can range from $35 to $60+ per square foot. The silty clay loam with glacial cobble near Credit River on many Georgetown properties may require additional drainage engineering that affects the total budget.

Question 46

How much does a stamped concrete patio cost in Milton?

Accepted Answer

Stamped concrete patio costs in Milton range from $16 to $30 per square foot, depending on pattern complexity, colour selection, and site preparation. A typical 300 to 400 square foot backyard patio runs $5,000 to $12,000 fully installed. Plain broom-finish concrete is more affordable at $10 to $16 per square foot. The clay loam on lowlands with thin soil over shale near escarpment on Milton lots may require additional base work.

Question 47

How much does artificial turf cost in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

Artificial turf installation in Hamilton typically costs $12 to $22 per square foot fully installed, including excavation, aggregate base, geotextile fabric, turf, and infill. Pet-friendly installations with antimicrobial infill cost slightly more. Putting greens range from $18 to $30 per square foot due to specialized turf profiles and contouring work. We provide exact pricing after an on-site assessment.

Question 48

How much do interlocking walkways and steps cost in Georgetown?

Accepted Answer

Interlocking walkway costs in Georgetown typically range from $25 to $40 per square foot, depending on width, pattern, and material selection. Steps with reinforced concrete cores and paver or stone cladding add $800 to $2,500 per set depending on width and riser count. Properties with significant grade changes common in Credit River valley and small-town community may require additional structural work.

Question 49

How much does interlock restoration cost in Milton?

Accepted Answer

Interlock restoration and sealing in Milton typically costs $4 to $8 per square foot, depending on the condition of the existing surface and the sealer type selected. A standard two-car driveway restoration runs $2,500 to $5,500 including pressure washing, polymeric sand replacement, and sealer application. This is significantly less expensive than full replacement.

Question 50

What plants grow well in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

As a Zone 6a municipality, Hamilton supports a wide range of hardy perennials, ornamental grasses, flowering shrubs, and shade trees. Popular choices include Echinacea, Black-Eyed Susan, Hostas, Hydrangeas, Karl Foerster grass, and native shrubs like Ninebark and Serviceberry. We select cultivars proven in Zone 6a conditions and source from Ontario-accredited nurseries.

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