FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions - How much will my Dream Landscaping cost?

Syracuse Lightscapes, Inc.
Transforming Landscapes. Enhancing Lifestyles.

1. What services does Syracuse Lightscapes provide?

Syracuse Lightscapes specializes in custom outdoor living environments, landscape design, and architectural lighting.
Our services include:

  • Landscape design and full project management

  • Outdoor lighting and control systems

  • Hardscapes: patios, walkways, retaining walls, and driveways

  • Masonry: natural stone and cultured stone installations

  • Pool design and complete backyard resort construction

  • Outdoor kitchens, bars, and fire features

  • Custom pergolas, pavilions, and covered outdoor structures

  • Irrigation, drainage, and grading

  • Landscape planting and low-maintenance installations

  • Permeable paving and concrete driveways

  • Seasonal service and lighting maintenance

We create turnkey outdoor environments that are functional, luxurious, and tailored to your lifestyle.

2. How does your design and build process work?

We follow a structured design–build approach to ensure precision, creativity, and accountability:

  1. Initial Consultation & Site Visit – We discuss your goals, vision, budget, and site conditions.

  2. Concept & Design Development – Our team prepares detailed plans and 3D renderings.

  3. Budget Proposal & Revisions – We provide a transparent cost breakdown with materials, labor, taxes, and markups clearly shown.

  4. Permitting & Scheduling – We handle all municipal coordination, permits, and engineering if needed.

  5. Construction & Installation – Our certified, in-house crews execute every detail with care and craftsmanship.

  6. Final Walkthrough & Warranty – We inspect every element and offer ongoing service plans for lighting and seasonal maintenance.

3. How much do outdoor projects cost?

Every project is custom-built, but here’s a realistic range of what our clients typically invest with Syracuse Lightscapes:

Design & Planning

  • 2D Concept Design : No Charge

  • 3D Concept Design : $500 – $3,500+

  • Full Landscape Master Plan with Engineering: $3,000 – $10,000+

Lighting Systems

  • Architectural & Landscape Lighting Packages: $4,000 – $25,000+

  • Driveway, Path, and Tree Lighting: $3,000 – $15,000+

  • Smart Control & Zoning Systems: $1,000 – $5,000

Hardscapes & Masonry

  • Paver or Natural Stone Patios: $25,000 – $150,000+

  • Walkways & Front Entrances: $5,000 – $50,000+

  • Retaining & Sitting Walls: $8,000 – $80,000+

  • Outdoor Fireplaces or Fire Pits: $7,000 – $25,000+

Outdoor Kitchens & Structures

  • Custom Outdoor Kitchen Islands: $15,000 – $75,000+

  • Pergolas, Pavilions & Covered Structures: $20,000 – $150,000+

  • Bar Seating, Stone Counters, Appliances: $5,000 – $30,000+

Pools, Water Features & Resort Builds

  • In-Ground Pools (Vinyl, Gunite, or Fiberglass): $70,000 – $250,000+

  • Complete Poolscape (pavers, coping, lighting, walls): $150,000 – $500,000+

  • Waterslides & Rock Waterfalls: $25,000 – $100,000+

  • Swim-Up Bars: $50,000 – $80,000+

  • Spas, Bubblers, and Laminar Jets: $5,000 – $25,000+

  • Pondless Waterfalls or Fountains: $6,000 – $30,000+

  • Pool Houses: $60,000 – $300,000+

Irrigation, Drainage & Grading

  • Complete Lawn Irrigation System: $5,000 – $15,000+

  • Foundation or Surface Drainage: $3,000 – $25,000+

  • Full Site Regrading & Excavation: $5,000 – $50,000+

Maintenance & Service Work

  • Spring & Fall Cleanups: $68/Man Hour

  • Lighting Maintenance & Re-Aiming: $250 – $2,500 annually

  • Irrigation System Start-Up/Winterization: $250 – $800 annually

  • Seasonal Planting or Mulching Packages: $68/Man Hour plus Materials

  • Snow & Ice Management (for select clients): No Longer Offered

Note: Final estimates vary based on site conditions, access, and customization level.

4. How long do projects take?

Project duration depends on size, complexity, and permitting:

  • Design Phase: 2–6 weeks

  • Permitting & Scheduling: 2–4 weeks

  • Construction:

    • Small lighting or patio projects: 2–4 weeks

    • Medium outdoor living spaces: 4–8 weeks

    • Large-scale poolscapes or full properties: 3–6 months

We prioritize quality, sequencing, and weather protection — ensuring long-lasting results rather than rushed work.

5. How far are you usually booked out?

Our schedule varies by season:

  • Design consultations are typically available within 2–4 weeks.

  • Construction start dates are typically booked 8–16 weeks out, depending on project size and time of year.
    To reserve your place in our upcoming seasons build schedule, we recommend starting the design process in late fall or winter.

6. Do you handle permits and engineering?

Yes — we manage all necessary permits, stamped drawings, grading plans, and inspections.
We work with licensed engineers and code officials to ensure your project meets all municipal and structural requirements.

7. What makes Syracuse Lightscapes different?

  • Certified Professionals: Our team includes ISA Certified Arborists, ICPI, NCMA, Belgard Authorized, and Techo-Pro Certified installers.

  • Unmatched Experience: Our crews bring hundreds of years of combined experience across landscape construction, masonry, lighting, and design.

  • Complex Projects Expertise: We excel in waterfront builds, pool environments, steep grades, and high-end custom details.

  • Turnkey Execution: Everything from design to final lighting aim is handled by our in-house experts, not subcontractors.

  • Award-Winning Designs: Our creative, durable work enhances property value and lifestyle for years to come.

8. Do you offer maintenance and service plans?

Yes, we offer custom maintenance programs to protect your investment year-round:

  • Lighting adjustments, cleaning, and bulb replacement

  • Irrigation inspection and seasonal adjustments

  • Patio, wall, and masonry cleaning or sealing

  • Seasonal planting and bed maintenance

  • Snow removal and off-season checks - Snow plowing no longer offered

Our goal is to keep your property looking as stunning as the day it was completed.

9. How do I get started?

Getting started is easy:

  1. Call or email our office to schedule an on-site consultation.

  2. We’ll discuss your vision, budget, and timeline.

  3. Our design team will guide you through the process from concept to completion.

📍 5948 Butternut Drive, East Syracuse, NY 13057
📞 315-751-0540
✉️ contact@syracuselightscapes.com