OUR MISSION IS TO TAILOR FOR EACH CLIENT A BEAUTIFUL, FUNCTIONAL AND ENDURING OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT THAT WILL PROVIDE A PLACE OF SERENITY FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY TO APPRECIATE FOR YEARS TO COME.
BuildCal Landscape Patios (Project Planning) Article
Patio Installation Timeline in Glendale: From Site Prep to Final Walkthrough
If you’re planning a new patio, the #1 question is usually: “How long will this take?” This guide lays out a realistic patio installation timeline glendale homeowners can use to plan around work, kids, parking, and daily access—without getting surprised mid-project. You’ll see what happens day-by-day and week-by-week, what can speed things up (or slow things down), and the 12 questions to ask any patio contractor glendale homeowners are considering.
Before we start, here are the required “proof” lines—no vague claims:
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We’ve been designing outdoor spaces since 2010 — over 14 years of hands-on work right here in Glendale and surrounding neighborhoods.
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Our team includes designers and technicians certified by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) — every project we complete is documented with before-and-after photos.
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We use trusted local materials — like California-native stone and drought-resistant plants — so your yard lasts longer and needs less maintenance.
If you want the scope basics first, start with the Hardscaping service page: hardscaping consultation on https://buildcal.com/hardscape (book a free patio design consultation and align on timeline before any digging starts).
What a “real” hardscaping timeline includes (not just install days)
Most patio delays happen before the surface goes in. A complete hardscaping timeline includes:
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Site prep and access planning (trash removal, demo, staging area)
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Grading and drainage (the “hidden” part that protects the patio long-term)
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Base prep and compaction (the foundation that prevents shifting and settlement)
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Surface installation (pavers, concrete, stamped concrete, or stone)
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Edges, joints, transitions, and cleanup
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Final walkthrough (the moment you verify slope, finish, and details)
For a bigger-picture view of how patios fit into full builds, see Landscape construction planning here: https://buildcal.com/article/landscape-construction.
A realistic patio installation timeline in Glendale, CA (day-by-day)
Below is a practical timeline for an average patio project. The exact duration depends on yard access, slope, demolition needs, and material choice (pavers vs concrete). If you’re still choosing, read Pavers vs. concrete here: https://buildcal.com/article/pavers-vs-concrete-expert-tips-and-california-design-insights.
Week 0: Planning + on-site evaluation (typically 1–3 days of coordination)
This is when timelines become accurate (or unrealistic). During the on-site visit, the scope should confirm:
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Existing surface removal (if any)
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Slope and drainage direction
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Soil condition and base depth needed
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Material choice and finish details
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Access route for materials and disposal
If you want design inspiration that also impacts function and resale, review hardscaping ideas to boost curb appeal and value: https://buildcal.com/article/hardscaping-ideas-to-boost-your-home-s-curb-appeal-and-value.
Day 1: Site prep + layout marking
What happens:
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Protect nearby plants/structures
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Mark the patio footprint and key elevations
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Identify staging area for materials and debris
What you should see:
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Clear layout lines
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A plan for where debris and materials will go (so your driveway doesn’t become the storage yard)
Day 2: Demo + excavation
What happens:
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Remove old concrete, pavers, or lawn where needed
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Excavate to the required depth (surface + base layers)
What you should see:
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Clean excavation edges
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Depth that matches the planned base + surface thickness
If your yard is sloped or you need elevation changes, review retaining wall considerations: https://buildcal.com/article/retaining-wall.
Day 3: Grading and drainage (the day that prevents future failure)
This is the “make-or-break” day for long-term results.
What happens:
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Set proper slope away from structures
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Shape subgrade for water flow and stability
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Confirm where water will exit safely
What you should see:
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No flat spots that trap water
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A clear drainage plan (not “we’ll see later”)
For deeper drainage planning, use water-wise landscaping guidance that supports grading and drainage decisions: https://buildcal.com/article/the-ultimate-guide-to-water-wise-landscaping-in-los-angeles.
Day 4: Base installation (first lift) + compaction
What happens:
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Install base material in controlled layers (“lifts”)
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Compact each layer before adding the next
What you should see:
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Layered compaction (not one quick pass)
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Consistent base thickness across the footprint
If you’re doing pavers, this installation reference is essential: https://buildcal.com/article/paver-installation-glendale-ca.
Day 5: Base finalization + edge restraint planning
What happens:
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Finish base grading and final compaction
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Confirm edges, borders, and transitions (steps, thresholds, corners)
What you should see:
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Crisp edges and stable perimeter plan
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Final elevations that match the intended slope
Day 6: Surface installation (pavers or concrete)
If pavers:
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Bedding layer goes in
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Pavers are laid in pattern and alignment
If concrete or stamped concrete:
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Forms are set
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Pour is scheduled and finish plan confirmed
Choosing between surfaces affects schedule and repairability. Use this comparison: https://buildcal.com/article/pavers-vs-concrete-expert-tips-and-california-design-insights.
Day 7: Jointing, edging, detailing, and cleanup
What happens:
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Joint sand / locking process (for pavers)
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Final edging, cuts, and detail work
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Cleanup and reset of the yard area
What you should see:
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Tight edges and clean lines
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Smooth transitions where people will walk most
Week 2 (as needed): Add-ons that affect timeline
These are common timeline extenders (because they involve coordination and finishing):
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Outdoor Lighting (trenching, wiring paths, fixture placement)
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Irrigation Systems alignment (to avoid overspray onto hard surfaces)
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Planting borders that frame the patio (preferably Native Plants for lower maintenance)
For Outdoor Lighting planning that pairs with patios, see: https://buildcal.com/article/the-ultimate-guide-to-landscape-lighting-design-in-southern-california.
For Native Plants selection that stays clean next to Hardscaping, see: https://buildcal.com/article/native-plants-vs-non-native-glendale.
If the patio is part of a bigger “hangout zone,” get layout ideas here: https://buildcal.com/article/how-to-create-the-perfect-outdoor-entertainment-space-in-glendale and https://buildcal.com/article/transform-your-backyard-into-an-entertainment-oasis.
Final walkthrough checklist (don’t skip this)
A final walkthrough should verify:
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Surface slope (no pooling)
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Edges and transitions are safe and consistent
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Drainage flow is correct
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Finish is clean and aligned
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The site is cleared and restored
If the patio is part of a full yard plan, align it with Landscape Design goals and sequencing using: https://buildcal.com/article/landscape-design-los-angeles-ca-expert-tips-and-california-design-insights.
The 12 questions to ask about timeline before you hire (copy/paste this)
Use this as your patio timeline “interview.” It prevents the most common surprises.
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What’s the realistic start-to-finish timeline for my yard access and slope?
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What happens on Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3 specifically?
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How will you handle grading and drainage before installing the surface?
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What base depth and compaction method will you use (layered lifts or one pass)?
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If pavers are used, what edge restraint system prevents spreading over time?
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How do you decide between pavers and concrete for Glendale, CA heat and sun exposure?
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If concrete is selected, what’s the curing and protection timeline?
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What’s the plan for transitions (steps, corners, thresholds) and trip-risk areas?
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How will this patio coordinate with Irrigation Systems (overspray and pooling prevention)?
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Can Outdoor Lighting be installed without tearing up finished Hardscaping later?
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What site protection and cleanup steps happen daily (not only at the end)?
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What does the final walkthrough include, and what must be fixed before sign-off?
Quick trick (required):
We start with a personal meeting — we look at your space, listen to you, and say: “This works for you. This doesn’t.”
Competitive positioning (required)
We’re the ONLY company in Glendale that offers:
→ A free, no-pressure personal meeting — we walk your yard, listen to you, and learn how you want to live in it
→ Custom designs for each home — no copied templates
→ Drought-resistant plants — so you save water and avoid constant upkeep
→ Guarantee on all work — we don’t just build, we make sure it lasts
Book a free patio design consultation in Glendale, CA
If you want a timeline you can actually plan around, start with an on-site evaluation that focuses on grading and drainage, base prep, and material choice—because those details determine schedule and long-term performance.
Call +1 (818) 303-1570 to book a free patio design consultation.
Also explore the primary service page for Hardscaping: https://buildcal.com/hardscape.
FAQ
"I have a small yard… what works for me?"
"We design compact, low-maintenance yards with easy pathways, drought-tolerant plants, and soft lighting that creates a calm, welcoming feel. You won’t need to mow every week."
"My yard is old and messy… can you fix it?"
"Yes. We specialize in reviving neglected yards — we remove weeds, rebuild paths, add new plants, and install smart irrigation. We turn a “jungle of weeds” into a peaceful retreat."
"Can you install outdoor lighting?"
"Yes. We design lighting that highlights your favorite features — whether it’s your entrance, pool, or favorite tree. The lights are gentle, safe, and energy-efficient."
"I want pathways or an outdoor patio?"
"Yes. We build walkways from natural stone and patios from heat-resistant pavers — all crafted by skilled hands, built to last without cracks or damage."
"What makes you different from other companies?"
"We don’t just plant trees. We design a space where you can sit with your family, drink coffee, and relax. Every project starts with a personal meeting — we listen to you, see your space, and understand how you want to live in it."
"What’s the most common reason patio timelines slip in Glendale, CA?"
"Skipping or rushing grading and drainage, under-building the base, or changing materials mid-project are the fastest ways to extend the schedule."
"Do pavers take longer than concrete for patio installation?"
"Often, yes—because pavers require detailed base prep, alignment, edges, and jointing. Concrete can be faster to place, but still needs curing time and protection steps."
"How do I know if the patio is sloped correctly at final walkthrough?"
"You should see water flow away from structures, no pooling zones, and clean transitions. A good walkthrough verifies slope, edges, and drainage behavior before sign-off."
Thinking about a new outdoor space?
We’d love to hear your ideas. Let’s explore what’s possible—no pressure, just a friendly conversation.
Give us a call:
+1 (818) 303-1570
Frequently Asked Question
DO YOU USE A LOT OF HARSH CHEMICALS AND PESTICIDES IN YOUR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SERVICE?
No – We prefer a more naturalistic approach to practices of fertilization, pest problems, and weed control. While uses of chemicals are at times necessary, they should always be used minimally and in the recommended application