unique basement renovation ideas
By Lisa Allen Basement Remodel • Basement Renovation • • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

5 Ideas for Your Olathe Basement Remodel

If you’re itching to turn your unfinished basement into a space that will feel more like the rest of your home, but you’re not quite sure what you want yet, listen up. In the next few posts, we’re going to dig into a few ideas that are popular across the nation. This doesn’t mean that you have to follow others as you design your space. Actually, the opposite is true: looking at what others have done can help you see the unique additions or designs that can turn your basement remodel from standard to stand-out.

A Few Easy Ideas for a Basement Remodel

1. An easy way to think of your basement remodel is to make it an extension of the rest of your home. How would you configure the space if it wasn’t hidden away underneath the “main space?” How would you tie the spaces together to make them feel consistent?

You might even recreate what you currently have. For instance, maybe you want an open family space with a small kitchen; but you want that small kitchen to include a bar (alcoholic or coffee). Maybe you want or need more bedrooms to accommodate a growing or extended family.

Thinking of your basement as just another floor of your home, you can add living space without starting from scratch.

2. Or, you could go the opposite direction. Are you dying to experiment with a new layout or design concept? Like a sparkly concrete floor or an art studio, for instance? Maybe you want a sauna or a workout room.

These are examples of spaces we don’t normally see in a person’s home. Sometimes that’s because you need all the space available for a family’s day to day; but other times it’s because the idea is just too “out there” to make sense. But anything is possible in a basement space. Get creative, go wild–nothing’s off limits! (Except maybe ideas that don’t measure up to code, but that’s why we’re here!).

basement guest room

Your Basement Remodel: Think Outside the Box

3. You might consider turning your basement into an oasis for family and friends. If you have loved ones you’d like to see more often but they don’t visit because of hotel or other lodging expenses, you might consider turning your basement into a space that will entice them to visit.

Think about what you’d want in a temporary home: easy access to a bathroom with a shower and bath? A luxury tub, maybe? Or a library with comfy chairs and a coffee or tea station so they can unwind?

No matter what your loved ones would like in a home-away-from-home space, we can help you build it.

4. The world might not be your stage, but your basement could be! If you love listening to music and dancing, consider a dance floor as part of your basement remodel. Or, if you’re a musician, think about adding a stage. Or both: a stage and a dance floor!

It might sound extravagant, but pursuing hobbies and doing things that bring joy are keys to happiness. Having a space that nurtures your interests and hobbies can be a godsend when life becomes challenging; and having a space to share with others who lift your spirits is, too.

Creating a basement space that caters to your interests, no matter what those interests might be, isn’t frivolous. It’s attainable.

Stress-Free Basement Remodel Ideas

5. Or, you might want to just keep things simple. Instead of creating a space designed for one particular thing, you can create an open space that will accommodate many things. An open, comfortable space with the right furniture will give you and your family room to relax, watch TV or movies together, sleep, read, play board games…the options are as open as your imagination, especially when your space is flexible.

Stay tuned for more ideas, coming soon! In the meantime, if you’re ready to talk about your Olathe basement, reach out. We’d love to help. 

By Lisa Allen Renovation • • • 0 Comments

Things to Consider About a Screened-In Porch

Things to Consider About a Screened-In Porch

One way to increase your living space is to enclose spaces that are outside so that you can use them year-round (or nearly year-round). A prime example of this is turning your porch into a screened-in porch.

A screened-in porch is exactly what it sounds like: a porch (it can be either your front or back porch) that’s screened in. This creates a room rather than a simple porch. Here in Olathe, a screened-in porch won’t be comfortable in the depths of winter, but it can offer you additional living space in every season.

Should you consider adding a screened-in porch to your property? Read on to find out.

Question 1: Do You Want Extra Living Space?

Do you need more space in your home? While a screened-in porch won’t give you extra kitchen or bathroom space, it will give you additional living space.

What does this mean? It means that your screened-in porch could be a sitting room. Or a reading room. Or an office. The specifics will depend on your home and whether you have a front or back screened-in porch. But by turning a porch into a screened-in porch, you’re creating another room that can be use for multiple purposes.

Question 2: Do You Want to Increase Your Home’s Resale Value?

While it’s true that adding a screened-in porch to your home is an investment, it’s also true that it can increase your resale value. That’s welcome news if you don’t think your current home is your forever home.

Why does a screened-in porch increase a home’s resale value? It’s because outdoor improvements in general are a good idea. But here in Kansas, where summer is more enjoyable when we’re protected from weather and pests, having a screened in porch can increase a potential buyer’s interest in your property.

Question 3: Do You Want Your Home to Look More Interesting?

Sometimes the question of whether or not you should invest in a home improvement project comes down to whether or not you like how it looks.

Take a long, objective look at your porch. Does it inspire joy? Does it look as beautiful as you’d like it to? Or do you see areas for improvement?

Can you imagine having coffee on your screened-in porch on beautiful fall mornings? Or sitting with friends to chat late into a summer evening? How about being able to keep pretty and comfortable furniture in that space, since it will be protected from the elements?

Loving your home is one of life’s most simple but yet luxurious pleasures. If having a living space that combines the best of indoor and outdoor living appeals to you and would be joy and satisfaction to your everyday life, that’s reason enough to explore your options.

We’re always here to discuss your projects with you. If you’re curious about whether or not your space would convert to a screened-in porch well or if you can afford such an endeavor, give us a call. We’ll talk through things with you to better understand your goals, then share how we can help. 

By Lisa Allen Construction • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Is Your Olathe Basement Ready for a Remodel?

Is Your Olathe Basement Ready for a Remodel?

If you need ample storage space in your home, an unfinished basement can be a godsend. But if you’ve thought of using that space for things other than storage, you may have wondered if remodeling your home’s basement is worth the cost and hassle. 

While every homeowner will have unique circumstances that factor into the decision, there are some common considerations that every homeowner should consider. Keep reading to learn more about the questions you should ask if you are considering a basement remodel project.

Why Do You Want A Basement Remodel?

The first question to ask yourself is: why? Another way to ask this is: what would you rather your basement be? 

The possibilities for what you can remodel your basement into are endless. Do you want an extra bedroom? A gorgeous laundry room? A movie room or game room? A soundproofed music studio? A gym? A yoga space? A library or writer’s den?

A basement remodel can truly be “bonus” space that reflects your interests and personality or it can simply add more living space. What’s important will vary from homeowner to homeowner.

The important thing to do is to put words around what you’re looking for. If you say “movie room,” does that mean a place for a cushy sofa and a wall-mounted big screen or does it mean theater seats and a projector that turns an entire wall into a screen?

Being as specific as you can with your “why” can help you determine the cost and timeframe of your project.

What’s Most Important In Your Basement Remodel?

If your primary motivation for remodeling your basement is to cater to your unique interests, your project will likely be very different in scope and execution than if your primary motivation is to increase your home’s resale value.

On average, a remodeled basement project will offer a return on investment of 75 cents for every dollar you spend. But that’s an average. If you build something very unique—like a music studio, for instance—you might limit the number of buyers who are interested in your home when you’re ready to sell. 

Determining what is truly important will help you prioritize your basement remodeling project. It will also help you explain to your contractor what your goals are and how they can help you achieve those goals.

Who Can Help You Remodel Your Olathe Basement?

Sure, there are lots of arguments for DIYed basement remodels. You might save some money in the beginning by doing the work yourself. You might even have a good time learning how to do things (if you don’t know already) and then spending evenings and weekends bringing your vision to life.

But think hard before you decide to go it alone. Have you thought about the city or county requirements for construction or remodeling? Do you understand why certain materials (hardwood flooring, for example) shouldn’t be used in a basement? Are you well versed in safety codes, escape plans, and the like? 

Working with an Olathe basement remodeling professional can take all those worries off your plate and allow you to focus on enjoying the process. If you’re curious about how we can help you turn your unfinished basement into the space of your dreams, give us a call!

By Lisa Allen Snow Removal • • • • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Why Hiring a Professional Snow Removal Company is Good Business

Why Hiring a Professional Snow Removal Company is Good Business

It’s true: Olathe hasn’t seen as much snow as we have during some winters. Temperatures have been downright balmy, even on some days in December. But don’t let the mild–and unseasonable–weather fool you. It is likely that there will be snow at some point, and the need for a professional snow removal company. 

When that time comes, you can save time, aggravation, and energy if you hire a professional to remove it. If you truly want and need to DIY snow removal this year, we’ve shared some tips to keep you safe while doing so. But snow removal can be hard, arduous work. That’s especially true if you don’t have the right tools and equipment. 

Provides Access

Think of grocery stores when the forecast includes a snowstorm. The bread and milk aisles are empty. Toilet paper is scarce. People run out and stock up because they want to be sure that if they’re stuck and unable to travel, they still have access to the products they use.

The same is true with finding a snow removal company once the weather has already gotten bad. If you wait to call around after the storm hits, there’s a smaller chance you’ll find a company with room on their schedule to service your needs. There’s also the very real possibility that if you do find someone with capacity, it will take them longer to clear your snow. 

Having a company on standby ensures that when the snow comes, you’ll be among the first to have your snow cleared. 

Protects Your Budget

When you think about professional snow removal services, your mind might go immediately to budgets. How much will snow removal at your Johnson County, Kansas, business cost? How much do snow removal companies charge per hour? Can you afford to have a snow removal company on contract?

Those are all valid questions. The simple answer, to all of them, is this: it depends. Not all companies charge the same rate or operate in the same way. We can’t speak for other snow removal services in Johnson County or the Olathe area, but we can tell you that our business is an outward expression of what we believe. We are active members of the community and we treat others fairly. We’d love to talk to you about your snow removal needs. 

If we return to the grocery store in a blizzard scenario, you might remember news coverage of businesses charging more for basic items when they are hard to get, especially when there is panic because of inclement weather. 

If you wait until the last minute to hire a snow removal company, you might not get the best pricing. Why? Because their service is at a premium and the demand has escalated. 

Establishing a relationship with a snow removal company early in the season, and working with them year after year, can be easier on your bottom line than waiting until an emergency situation.

Provides Good Customer Service

In addition to being able to discuss your budget and find a solution that works for you, establishing a relationship with a professional snow removal service can improve business operations for everyone. 

How? Because you won’t be scrambling to get the sidewalks and driveways cleared, and customers can feel safe coming to your business. Employees will be able to come and go more easily. And the peace of mind you get from knowing that snow removal will be handled by a professional means you can focus on taking care of your clients and serving their needs. 

Customer service is an integral part of our business. We focus on both service to our clients and service to our employees. We charge a fair rate in exchange. We won’t always be the lowest price, but we don’t consider that a bad thing. We have employees that we pay so they can care for their families. We offer exemplary service, which  means we don’t cut corners. We’re happy to talk to you about our services and how they might fit into your budget. 

We’re always eager to talk about your projects, your needs, and your concerns. Reach out to start a conversation. 

By Lisa Allen Snow Removal • • • • • • • 0 Comments

How to Stay Safe While Removing Snow from Your Property

How to Stay Safe While Removing Snow from Your Property

It doesn’t matter if your property is residential or commercial: removing snow from driving and walking areas can be a painstaking process. Removing snow is the only way to ensure the safety of others who might need to travel or move around before the snow melts. 

There are options when it comes to snow removal. Of course, we think the best option is to contract with a trusted snow removal service. There are countless advantages to letting the pros handle your winter snow removal, some of which we’ll share below. 

But if you want to tackle the task yourself, you’ll need elbow grease, stamina, the right tools, and time if you want to do it safely and properly. Keep reading for a few tips that might help, but remember: always check with your doctor to be sure that you should be shoveling snow. 

Stay Safe While Shoveling Snow With the Right Tools

Shoveling or otherwise removing snow is an athletic activity that requires strength, stamina, and the proper tools. 

Be sure you’re equipped with warm gear. A coat, gloves, hat, thick socks, and sturdy boots are necessary to protect your skin from frostbite as you work outdoors. You’ll also need a shovel that’s specifically designed to scrape and scoop snow; using shovels designed for other jobs will result in you having to work harder and longer to clear your area.

Some folks prefer a snow blower for lighter dustings of snow. Using this tool can help reduce the stress on your body because you’re not bending or lifting. But be sure you’ve read the safety warnings and operation manual before you try to operate any type of machine, and take the proper precautions to be sure that the machine is fully serviced and in good condition. 

Remembering These Health Tips while Removing Snow

Snow removal is a very physical activity, not unlike other forms of exercise. To stay safe, remember these tips:

  • Warm up first. Your muscles should be warmed up and ready to work hard in order to shovel snow properly. Try stretching, bending, or running in place indoors before heading out into the snow. 
  • Push whenever possible instead of lifting. If you can move the snow without having to hoist and toss, you can save precious energy and make it easier on your body. 
  • Take frequent breaks. There’s no law that says you have to clear all the snow at once. Rest when you need to rest. 
  • Try to keep up with the snow. Shorter, more frequent shoveling sessions can be easier on your body than a marathon after multiple snows. 
  • Stay hydrated. You will sweat under the layers necessary to stay warm. Taking frequent breaks to hydrate is crucial, even when the temperatures are cold. 

Stay Safe (and Warm) by Hiring a Professional for Removing Snow

There’s a reason businesses and homeowners associations hire us year after year to take care of their snow removal needs. Our dedicated crew, our professional tools, and our diligent work ethic means that we’ll be there when you don’t want to be (or can’t). 

This not only frees up your time for doing what you do best, but it gives you peace of mind that the job will be done right. You can work on projects, spend more time with family, or even travel without worrying about whether or not your driveways, streets, or parking lots will be free of snow.

We’re here and eager to help when you’re ready. Give us a call to learn more…before you have a pile of snow that needs to be moved!

By Lisa Allen Snow Removal • • • • • 0 Comments

Why You Should Let a Snow Removal Professional Clear Your Snow This Winter

snow removal, Olathe snow removal contractor, snow removal Johnson CountyIt’s that time again: temperatures are dropping, days are getting shorter, and we’re swapping our shorts for sweaters. This means that before we know it, we’ll need to scrape the ice off our car windshields and shovel snow from our driveways and sidewalks.

If you’ve ever wondered whether or not you should hire a someone for snow removal to take care of the snow in your neighborhood or business, this is a good time to explore that option. The truth is, hiring a snow removal professional to keep your pathways clear no matter the weather can save you more than just an aching back. It can save you money, too.

How Hiring a Snow Removal Professional Can Save You Money

It costs money to hire someone to remove snow from your driveway, walkways, street, parking lot, or roof. Actual costs vary depending on the area being cleared, timing, and more. Also, prices will vary depending on whether you hire a contractor once or on a recurring contract basis. While there are national averages, it makes sense to call local service providers for more accurate information. 

It’s true there is an expense to hire a professional snow removal company. However, the money you save can be substantial. Paying a professional to do the job right once is typically less expensive than hiring an amateur. This is because they might do it wrong the first time. Then, you have to hire another person to make it right.

Working with a company that is fully insured and has trained professionals means that you’re hiring a company that can work efficiently and professionally, which is a must when the alternative is not being able to leave your home or business because of snow.

Hiring Snow Removal Professionals Can Prevent Legal Issues

Most cities and townships have existing regulations regarding snow removal. In Olathe, for instance, it is the homeowner or occupant’s responsibility to ensure that all walkways are safe. This means that if a sidewalk is snow-packed or icy and someone falls or otherwise is injured because of the snow or ice, the homeowner or occupant can be held liable. 

Current estimates say that, with insurance, the surgical cost of treating a broken leg is between $17,000 and $35,000. If a city ordinance stipulates that you are responsible for removing snow and ice from a walkway and you do not, and someone is injured, those costs can rapidly multiply. 

Homeowners associations will sometimes hire a professional snow removal company to ensure this is not an issue. If yours does not, or if that company isn’t clearing your sidewalks quickly or completely, you could be liable for issues that arise. The average cost of a snow removal contract, especially when divided among homeowners in a neighborhood or subdivision, is far less than the medical and legal fees that might accumulate should the unthinkable happen.

Peace of Mind is Priceless

Knowing that your walkways and roads will be clear, no matter the weather, is priceless. Knowing you don’t need to worry about staying home from work to shovel, or that you can spend time with loved ones instead of watching the weather, can increase your quality of life in the coming winter months. 

There are other ways that contracting with a snow removal company here in Olathe can save you money. We’d love to talk to you about the advantages of working together! Reach out now to learn more–before the first snow hits!

outdoor-living-space-olathe
By Lisa Allen Tips and Tricks • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

How to Prepare Your Olathe Outdoor Living Space for Winter

While some outdoor living spaces can be used almost year-round, like an enclosed porch, others need a little extra care as temperatures move from warm to cold. Taking preventive measures now, before the temperatures drop, can save your outdoor living space from unnecessary damage during our cold weather months.

outdoor-living-space-olathePrepare Your Outdoor Living Space for Winter Weather

Your winter preparation checklist will vary depending on which elements you have in your lawn and landscape. Keep reading for tips that pertain to our most popular outdoor living spaces:

Outdoor Fire Elements 

Outdoor fire elements like fire pits and fireplaces are examples of outdoor improvements that you can continue to use even when temperatures make being outdoors difficult. Provided you’ve stocked plenty of firewood and you bundle up to protect yourself from the elements, you can cozy up with friends and family around a fire unless temperatures are severe.

You’ll want to be sure that you keep the area free of debris ( this is a good tip for year-round maintenance) and that you’ve pruned any foliage that encroaches on the area in which you’ll build a fire. 

Outdoor Water Elements

Outdoor water elements like koi ponds and fountains should be winterized. Be sure to clean the area and make sure it’s free of debris. Drain all pumps, heaters, filters, and other pieces of equipment to prevent cracking or breakage. You should also cover water elements to keep unwanted visitors away and to inhibit mold or algae growth. 

Walkways and Stone Work

If you’ve had pavers installed or have created any kind of walkway, you’ll want to ensure that the area is safe even during the coldest of winters. To start, make sure the area is clean. Remove any debris, including fallen leaves or dead foliage. Reseal the area if necessary (or hire a professional to do so). 

Outdoor Lighting Elements

Even if you’re not using your outdoor space as much during cold weather, you’ll still want to make sure that you have proper lighting and that it continues to work well. Before it gets so cold that you don’t enjoy working outdoors, check all outdoor lighting elements and change bulbs where necessary. You might consider switching to high-efficiency options, especially if you use the lighting element year-round.

Outdoor Patio Furniture

Outdoor furniture is built to withstand all weather conditions, but it’s still important to take precautions to help it last as long as possible. Cover furniture with weather-resistant coverings, especially anything soft like cushions or chair pads. Another important thing to do is to check wood and other natural elements. Painting with a waterproof sealer can help keep wear and tear at bay.

Curious about the other projects we’ve really enjoyed lately? Visit us on Facebook or take a look at our website. And, as always, we’re here to help with whatever project you have in mind. 

By Lisa Allen Tips and Tricks • • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

How to Prepare Your Olathe Lawn for Winter

Our cooler nights and earlier sunsets mean one thing: winter is getting closer to Olathe. Soon we’ll be bundling up in layers and switching from AC to heat. Before colder temperatures move in, there are specific things you can do to help prepare your Olathe lawn and your outdoor spaces and protect them from the elements.

Prepare Your Olathe Lawn for Winter Weather

When it comes to your lawn and landscape, it’s important to remember that winter weather preparation comes down to two categories: preparation and preservation.

To prepare your lawn for coming cold and freezing temperatures, you should consider doing these things:

  • Clean up: make sure your outdoor space is free of debris. Rake up any remaining fallen leaves, trim back dead foliage, and generally clean the space. This not only makes your space look nice. It also helps your lawn and landscape elements direct energy to appropriate growth. Fallen leaves might look innocent–and pretty–enough, but can actually smother your lawn if not removed. This doesn’t mean that they can’t serve other purposes, though. Fallen and collected leaves are a fantastic addition to a home compost pile. If you don’t compost, you might check to see if your community does. Some communities, like Olathe, have community gardens that accept compost material. Others have drop-off compost sites like this one. Be sure to check the specifics for each. For example, the community garden compost at the Sunset Administration Building in Olathe accepts some kitchen scraps while the drop-off yard compost site in Olathe accepts only lawn waste. 
  • Aerate: Core aeration is a way to prevent compacted soil, which can lead to an unhealthy and unsightly lawn. Our soil in Johnson County is particularly dense because of the amount of clay it holds. Aerating helps open up that soil so that the roots of grasses and other plants can grow appropriately.
  • Overseed the lawn: Fall is the ideal time to overseed your lawn, particularly with tall fescue and bluegrass. But it’s not as easy as just tossing handfuls of seeds onto your lawn and walking away. You should use proper verticutting and aeration techniques, fertilize properly, and plant the right ratio of seeds to soil. 

If this all sounds confusing, we can help you prepare your lawn and plant the grasses you want. Just give us a call!


How to Preserve Your Lawn Over the Winter

  • Leave your grass shorter for the winter. Think of it as a nice haircut before hibernation sets in. Cutting it shorter than you would in warmer months help keep it pest-free (mice and other pests look for anything that will offer warmth as the temps drop) and keep it as healthy as possible. 
  • You can also fertilize your lawn in the Fall. If you’ve not yet tested your soil to see which fertilizer is best for your lawn, you can do that as well. Getting the right mix of fertilizer elements is key to properly nourishing the soil and the grass seed you will plant.

    One final tip: when it does get icy, try to not walk on your lawn if at all possible. Scott’s says that even the strongest lawns can become weak if walked on too much. 

We’re ready to help you transition from summer to winter! Keep track of what we’re up to on Facebook or send us a note to get started. 

Landscaping Projects to Do Now So You Can Enjoy Fall
By Lisa Allen Landscape • Renovation • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Landscaping Projects to Do Now So You Can Enjoy Fall

Landscaping Projects to Do Now So You Can Enjoy Fall

Sure, summer is great. We love the longer days, the backyard gatherings, time at the pool. But if you’re looking forward to cooler temperatures and want to be sure you can still spend time outdoors even after the weather cools, there are landscaping projects you can consider now that might just make this next Fall your best Fall. 

Landscaping Projects to Do Now So You Can Enjoy FallStart With a Small Landscaping Change

If you just want to adjust for the season but you’re not ready to make a huge investment with your landscaping, you might consider planting a cooler weather garden. 

Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale grow well in cooler temperatures. So do brassicas like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. Other crops to consider include beans, radishes, turnips, and carrots. 

If you’d rather plant flowers, Fall is the perfect time for mums, pansies, asters, and dianthus. You can also create gorgeous container gardens with flowering kale, crotons, and fountain grass. 

Dream Big and Tackle Big Landscaping Projects

If you’re ready for a bigger project, think about installing a fire feature before the weather turns cold. Not only is a fireplace a focal point, but it provides a place for family and friends to gather long after the weather turns cooler. 

Outdoor fireplaces in Olathe can be built from a variety of materials including stone and can be either gas or wood fired. Like other architectural elements of a landscaped yard, your fireplace can look however you want it to: it can be round or rectangular, built in a fire-pit fashion or a wall. It can look rustic or sleek. 

An outdoor kitchen is another example of a larger project that will enable you to continue spending time outdoors even once the weather turns cooler. By installing an outdoor oven or cooktop as well as seating and prep space, you can extend the usable space of your home and take advantage of the beautiful Fall weather. 

Other projects you might consider are those that also add additional living space to your outdoor space. These options include a patio, covered deck, screened-in porch, or pergola. Adding one of these features will serve you year-round, not just in the Fall. A covered space will offer respite from the sun during these waning summer months. And a screened-in porch can offer additional space almost year-round, except for the most brutal winter months. 

Get Help with Your Olathe Backyard Fireplace

Part of planning your perfect outdoor space is understanding the seasons in Olathe and the surrounding Kansas City area. Our landscape architects know how to best leverage our seasons to create outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and functional. We’d love the opportunity to review your goals and help you create a plan to achieve them.

residential-retaining-wall-olathe-ks
By Lisa Allen Landscape • • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Do You Need a Retaining Wall?

Do You Need a Retaining Wall?

How do you know when it’s time to invest in larger landscaping projects? The prospect of building something bigger than a garden or seeding your lawn is one that can cause stress. There are budgets to consider, finding the right company to do the work, and considerations about how long you might stay in your current home. residential-retaining-wall-olathe-ks

A retaining wall is one of those larger projects that can take time to plan and execute. But it’s also a project that offers both practical and aesthetic advantages. Not only can you prevent serious issues like improper drainage and soil erosion with a retaining wall; you can also add a beautiful, unique architectural element to your outdoor space. 

If you’ve ever wondered if you might need a retaining wall, keep reading. We’re sharing a few things to consider before you start planning the project.  

Consider Your Yard’s Slope

If your home sits on land that isn’t level, a retaining wall might be necessary to create a flat surface. This will allow you to install additional landscaping features like a fireplace or a patio, or to plant a garden. 

Installing a retaining wall can also help prevent soil erosion, which can happen when water runs through sloped soil and causes the soil to move from one area to another. This runoff can be detrimental to your home’s foundation and is actually one of the primary reasons retaining walls are necessary. 

Track Your Water Drainage

Because improper drainage and soil erosion can lead to detrimental–and expensive–foundation damage, understanding the drainage in your yard and around your home is imperative. Knowing where water will pool can help you understand where adjustments should be made. Similarly, knowing how water runs after it rains can help you pinpoint soil erosion. All of this will help you plan how to mitigate the issues that might cause damage at some point.

Once you understand how your space operates without a retaining wall, you can talk with a landscape architect to determine where to place a retaining wall as well as what kind of wall you want. 

Consider How You Use Your Space

If your outdoor space is large enough to accommodate different activities, installing a retaining wall might be a great way to add a pleasing visual element to the space while also organizing it for those activities. 

Let’s say, for example, that you are an avid gardener and want to start composting. But you’re not crazy about the idea of looking at a compost pile every day. You could design a space that includes a shorter retaining wall that will block the unsightly–but highly beneficial–compost pile from your everyday view. 

Or you might want to separate an outdoor patio from your pool, or the pool from your children’s play area. There are countless reasons why a retaining wall might be the perfect addition to your outdoor space.

Going It Alone–or Without Help

Depending on the height and placement of your retaining wall, you may be able to do the project on your own. While that’s an option, we think it’s best to work with a professional landscaping company. We’ve built retaining walls for clients throughout the Olathe and Johnson County area, and would love to work with you on your next project.