Procedures

Artificial Grass Installation Procedure

Artificial Grass Installation

The following outlines our complete, industry-standard installation process, which fully rebuilds the foundation that was missing from the existing system and ensures proper drainage, stability, and longevity.
‍
Our installation begins by clearing the designated area of any existing grass, debris, and organic material.
‍
The surface is then graded for proper drainage and compacted to create a stable sub-base.
‍
A layer of crushed aggregate is installed and compacted — usually around 2–3 inches deep, depending on soil conditions and usage requirements. The base is mechanically compacted to approximately 90–95% density to prevent future settling and maintain a stable, even surface.

Once leveled, a commercial-grade weed barrier is laid over the compacted base to help prevent weed growth while allowing for drainage.

Next, the artificial grass is carefully rolled out and trimmed to fit the design. It is secured using 5" non-galvanized nails, placed approximately every 5 inches along the perimeter and every 12 inches within the interior of the turf. Seams are carefully joined to ensure durability and visual continuity.

Finally, the turf fibers are brushed upright and infilled with a material such as silica sand, antimicrobial, odor trapping, or cooling infill, depending on the application. This step enhances stability, appearance, and longevity. The area is then cleaned and groomed for a polished finish.

Decorative Rock Installation Procedure

Our decorative rock installations begin by carefully outlining the designated areas and removing any existing vegetation, debris, loose soil, or obstructions that could interfere with a stable installation. In many cases, this includes removing existing decorative rock, weeds, or organic material that has accumulated over time. The area is then lightly graded to create a smooth and even subgrade, eliminating low spots where water or debris might collect.

Once the surface is prepared, we install a commercial-grade 4oz woven weed barrier fabric designed to suppress weed growth while still allowing water to drain through the soil naturally. The fabric is overlapped at seams and securely pinned using landscape staples to prevent movement over time and to ensure continuous weed protection across the entire installation area.

Depending on the site conditions and the customer’s preference, we may install an optional graded and compacted base layer, typically consisting of Class II road base. When used, this base layer is usually installed at a depth of approximately 2–3 inches and compacted with vibratory plate compactors to create a firm, stable surface.

This optional base layer offers several advantages:

• Improves long-term stability of the decorative rock
• Reduces settling and migration of the rock into the soil
• Enhances drainage and prevents muddy conditions after rain
• Provides a smoother and more level finished surface

However, in many residential decorative rock installations—particularly where soil is already firm and well-draining—the base layer may be omitted to reduce cost and installation time. In these cases, the weed barrier fabric is installed directly over the prepared soil, and the decorative rock itself provides sufficient coverage and stability for the landscape application.

After the base preparation (if selected) and weed barrier installation are complete, the chosen decorative rock—such as river rock, crushed gravel, lava rock, or other decorative aggregates—is carefully distributed across the area at the specified depth. The material is evenly spread to achieve consistent coverage and proper thickness, typically ranging from 2 to 3 inches depending on the rock size and design requirements.

The surface is then final-raked and sculpted to create a clean, professional finish with smooth transitions and an even distribution of material. Special attention is given to shaping around trees, plants, irrigation components, and architectural features to maintain both functionality and visual appeal.

If required for the design, steel edging or bender board edging is installed along borders to contain the decorative rock and clearly define landscaped areas. Edging helps maintain crisp lines between rock, turf, concrete, or planting areas and prevents rock migration over time.

The result is a low-maintenance, visually appealing landscape surface that improves drainage, reduces weed growth, and enhances the overall curb appeal of the property.

Decomposed Granite (DG) Installation Procedure

Our decomposed granite installations start with clearing the designated area of grass, roots, and debris to establish a clean and stable foundation. Once the area is excavated and leveled, we install bender board or metal edging to contain the DG and create defined borders that prevent spreading over time.

A commercial-grade weed barrier fabric is laid down to inhibit weed growth while still allowing water to permeate through. This ensures a clean, low-maintenance finish over the long term.

We then apply a base layer of compacted Class II road base or crushed rock, typically around 2–3 inches deep, depending on site conditions and expected foot traffic. This base layer is leveled and compacted using a vibratory plate compactor to provide a stable sub-surface.

Next, we spread the decomposed granite evenly across the area in lifts of approximately 1.5 inches each. After each layer is spread, we lightly moisten the surface with water to aid in compaction and binding, then use the compactor again to press it into place. This process is repeated as needed until the final desired depth—usually around 2–3 inches total—is achieved.

We use stabilized DG upon request, which includes a binding agent to help the surface resist erosion and maintain a firmer finish under traffic. The final surface is lightly misted and compacted again for a smooth, walkable, and professional finish.

Paver Installation Procedure

Our paver installations begin with thorough site preparation, which includes marking the layout, removing any vegetation, and excavating the area to a depth that accommodates the paver thickness plus the required base layers—typically 7 to 9 inches total, depending on traffic load.

We then install edge restraints (such as bender board or concrete curbing) to maintain the integrity of the layout and prevent shifting over time.

A weed barrier fabric is laid down over the subgrade to reduce weed growth without impeding drainage.Next, we apply a compacted Class II road base or ¾” crushed aggregate in lifts of approximately 2–3 inches, compacting thoroughly after each lift using a vibratory plate compactor. This base layer is usually 4 to 6 inches thick, depending on whether the application is pedestrian or vehicular.

Over the compacted base, we spread a 1-inch bedding layer of washed concrete sand or similar material. This layer is carefully screeded to create a smooth, level surface that will support the pavers evenly.

Pavers are then laid by hand, following the desired pattern (e.g., herringbone, running bond, basketweave). We use spacers or consistent joints to allow for joint sand and proper interlocking.

Once all pavers are laid, we cut edge pieces as needed using a masonry saw or splitter to achieve a clean perimeter fit. After the entire surface is in place, we compact the pavers with a vibratory plate compactor fitted with a rubber pad to avoid surface damage.

We then apply polymeric sand or regular joint sand across the surface and sweep it into the joints. Polymeric sand is preferred for its binding and weed-prevention properties. The surface is compacted once more to help settle the sand.

Finally, for polymeric sand, we lightly mist the surface to activate the binding agent, resulting in a durable, low-maintenance, and visually appealing finish.

Stepping Stones Installation Procedure

The installation of stepping stones begins with careful planning and layout, ensuring proper spacing for comfortable walking. Typically, we maintain a distance of 18 to 24 inches (center to center) between stones to match the average human stride.

We begin by marking the path and then removing any grass or vegetation in each spot where a stone will be placed. Each area is excavated individually to a depth of approximately 2 to 4 inches, depending on the thickness of the stones and desired finish height.

Next, we install a weed barrier fabric under each stone location to help prevent weed growth while allowing drainage. A compacted base layer of decomposed granite (DG), sand, or crushed gravel is then added to each cavity, typically 1 to 2 inches thick, and compacted by hand to create a stable and level foundation.

Each stepping stone is then set into place manually, ensuring it sits level with the surrounding grade and is stable under foot pressure. We use a level and rubber mallet to adjust and secure each stone. The goal is a flush finish with just enough elevation to allow water runoff and avoid pooling.

If requested or aesthetically appropriate, we fill the joints between stones with decorative gravel, bark, DG, or artificial turf strips, depending on the overall landscaping theme and drainage requirements.

Once all stepping stones are in place and stable, we conduct a final inspection and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a safe, durable, and visually balanced pathway.

Concrete Installation Procedure

Our concrete installation process for residential patios, walkways, grill pads, and light-use driveways begins with site preparation and grading. We start by marking the layout, removing any vegetation, and excavating the area to a depth of approximately 4 to 6 inches, depending on the application and soil conditions.

A Class II road base or crushed gravel layer is then installed, typically 2 to 4 inches thick, and compacted thoroughly using a vibratory plate compactor. This creates a solid and stable foundation that prevents cracking and shifting over time.

Next, forms are constructed using high-quality lumber to define the edges and maintain consistent thickness and slope. We ensure that the concrete will drain away from any structures, avoiding pooling or water damage. If necessary, expansion joints or control joints are planned and marked to minimize cracking.

We then place concrete reinforcement, usually welded wire mesh or #3 rebar on chairs, based on project needs. This reinforcement adds tensile strength to help resist cracking and shifting.

A ready-mix concrete blend is then poured on-site, typically in the 3,000–3,500 psi range, which is ideal for residential use while allowing for ease of finishing. Our crew levels and floats the concrete, followed by edging and finishing the surface based on your selected texture—broom finish, smooth trowel, or decorative stamped finish.

Control joints are cut within 24 hours to prevent future cracking due to expansion and contraction.

After the surface has cured enough for final touch-ups, we apply curing compound (if requested) and rope off the area to protect it during the curing process. Light foot traffic is typically allowed after 24–48 hours, while vehicles should avoid driving on the slab for at least 7 days.

The result is a clean, durable concrete surface, ready to support daily use, outdoor furniture, BBQ grills, and more—adding both function and elegance to your outdoor space.

Hazard Mitigation Procedure

Not Included / Exclusions

The following items are not included in this proposal unless specifically added through a written change order:

This proposal does not include demolition or removal of existing concrete, pool coping, pool equipment, irrigation systems, underground utilities, fencing, patio structures, trees, large roots, buried debris, or any materials not specifically listed in the approved scope.

This proposal does not include major excavation, soil replacement, engineered compaction, soil stabilization, drainage engineering, or correction of unstable subgrade conditions. Because portions of the backyard soil were previously excavated, moved, disturbed, and/or backfilled by others during the pool construction process, Kreative Gardens cannot guarantee the long-term stability or settlement behavior of the existing soil below our installation. Any future settling, sinking, low spots, unevenness, drainage changes, separation, or movement caused by previously disturbed soil, improper backfill, hidden voids, buried debris, irrigation leaks, underground utilities, tree roots, drainage issues, or work performed by others is excluded from our workmanship warranty.

This proposal does not include repair or replacement of any pool components, pool plumbing, pool electrical systems, pool decking, drains, skimmers, coping, tile, plaster, equipment pads, or any other pool-related work. Kreative Gardens will take reasonable care around the pool area, but we are not responsible for existing pool construction defects, leaks, settlement, drainage problems, or conditions caused by the pool contractor or other trades.

This proposal does not include irrigation installation, irrigation repair, sprinkler capping, valve relocation, drainage installation, French drains, area drains, sump systems, or any underground utility modifications unless specifically added in writing.

This proposal does not include relocation or modification of pool equipment, air-conditioning equipment, gas lines, electrical lines, utility boxes, sheds, fences, gates, patio covers, pergolas, outdoor furniture, planters, or other existing structures or personal property.

The customer-provided 24" x 24" pavers are not supplied by Kreative Gardens. Our scope includes installation of the customer-provided pavers only. Replacement pavers, damaged pavers, color matching, additional pavers, or changes to the paver layout are not included unless approved as a change order.

The fire-pit area is included as a decorative landscape feature using the materials described in this proposal. This proposal does not include gas line installation, gas plumbing, electrical ignition systems, permits, inspections, or approval from any authority having jurisdiction. Customer is responsible for confirming allowed use, clearance requirements, fire restrictions, fuel type, and any applicable local rules before operating the fire pit. Kreative Gardens does not guarantee approval of the fire pit by any city, county, fire department, HOA, insurance carrier, or other authority.

This proposal does not include warranty coverage for damage caused by heat, fire, smoke, sparks, embers, ashes, reflective heat, grills, fire pits, cigarettes, fireworks, chemicals, pool chemicals, chlorine, pets, chewing, digging, sharp objects, heavy equipment, vehicles, furniture dragging, abuse, misuse, flooding, erosion, drainage issues, or acts of nature.

This proposal does not include ongoing maintenance, turf brushing, DG replenishment, weed removal after installation, stain removal, odor treatment, pet waste cleanup, pool cleaning, or routine landscape maintenance after completion.

Any work required due to concealed or unforeseen site conditions, customer-requested changes, additional materials, access limitations, extra grading, additional base, additional DG, additional edging, additional compaction, haul-away, repairs, or work outside the approved scope will be priced separately and must be approved through a written change order before the additional work is performed.

‍

Notes:

Here is the Notes section, written to work as both specifications and customer-facing clarifications.

The design renderings and layout images are intended to visually represent the proposed finished appearance of the backyard. Final placement, curves, transitions, paver spacing, fire-pit position, decomposed granite areas, and artificial grass edges may be adjusted slightly in the field to account for actual site conditions, grading, access, pool-deck elevations, existing equipment, fence lines, and installation requirements.

Artificial grass is estimated at approximately 1,540 square feet, and decomposed granite is estimated at approximately 2,100 square feet. Final installed areas may vary slightly based on field adjustments, actual measurements, roll layout, curves, seams, transitions, and customer-approved changes.

The decomposed granite areas are intended to cover exposed dirt, reduce loose soil around the pool area, and provide a cleaner, lower-maintenance finish in areas where artificial grass is not necessary. Selected decomposed granite areas may receive stabilizer to help reduce movement, dust, and tracking; however, decomposed granite is still a natural aggregate surface and may require occasional maintenance, replenishment, or re-compaction over time.

The artificial grass areas will be installed over a prepared and compacted base with weed barrier, edging, nails, infill, and normal finish work. Because this project is being installed around a newly constructed pool and on areas that may have been disturbed by previous construction activity, the final surface will be prepared and compacted as part of our normal installation process, but Kreative Gardens cannot guarantee the stability of soil previously excavated, moved, backfilled, or compacted by others.

The fire-pit area will be built as a decorative landscape feature using gray charcoal concrete retaining wall blocks, cap blocks, a steel fire-ring insert, landscape block adhesive, lava rock, paver sand, and a decomposed granite buffer area around the fire pit. The proposed fire-pit design is intended to create a cleaner noncombustible area around the fire feature and help separate the fire area from nearby artificial grass.

San Bernardino County Fire’s outdoor fire safety guidance includes clearance and use recommendations for recreational fires, including maintaining safe distances from structures and combustible materials, limiting the size of the fuel area, using only clean dry wood or charcoal where allowed, and not burning trash or prohibited materials. Customer is responsible for confirming whether the fire pit is permitted at the property, whether wood-burning or gas use is allowed, whether any burn restrictions apply, and whether any city, county, HOA, insurance, or fire-department approval is required before use. Kreative Gardens does not provide fire-code approval, permitting, gas-line installation, or inspection services.

Although Camofill is composed primarily of coated silica sand, the coating is designed to encapsulate the particles and help reduce normal dust release during typical turf use. As with any infill product, it should be handled and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety documentation. A Safety Data Sheet for Camofill will be included with this proposal for customer review.

The sixteen 24" x 24" pavers are customer-provided and will be installed in a horseshoe-shaped layout near the equipment-side turf area, as shown in the project rendering. Minor field adjustments may be made to improve spacing, alignment, accessibility, and appearance.

This proposal assumes reasonable access for equipment and material handling. If access is restricted, if additional hand-carrying is required, if hidden obstructions are discovered, or if additional preparation is needed beyond the included scope, additional labor or materials may require a written change order.

All work will be performed in a professional manner using normal installation practices for artificial grass, decomposed granite, pavers, and decorative landscape features. Final appearance may vary slightly from digital renderings due to real site conditions, material availability, lighting, slope, elevation changes, and installation tolerances.

For safer and cleaner use near people, pets, and pool areas, this proposal includes Camofill infill instead of regular silica sand. Camofill is a coated, treated sand infill designed for artificial turf applications. Compared with ordinary loose silica sand, Camofill is intended to reduce visible dust, blend more naturally into the turf, and provide a cleaner finish in areas where children, adults, pets, and pool users may be present. The product also includes antimicrobial protection intended to help inhibit odor-causing bacteria, fungi, and algae.

‍

The Fine Print

Before We Begin...

Please take a moment to review the details below. These notes cover important aspects of your project, such as warranties, material handling, and general terms. We believe in transparency and want you to feel confident every step of the way.

Mechanic’s Lien Warning

Mechanic's Lien Warning
Under California law, any contractor, subcontractor, laborer, supplier, or other person who helps improve your property but is not paid may record what is called a mechanic's lien on your property. A mechanic’s lien is a claim made against your property and may affect your ability to sell or refinance. This could happen even if you have paid your contractor in full.To protect yourself, you should request a Lien Release from all contractors and subcontractors after work is completed.

Change Order Clause

Change Orders
‍Any additions or modifications to the scope of work must be documented in a written change order, signed by both parties before additional work is performed. Change orders may result in additional charges and could impact the project timeline.

Cancellation Policy

Right to Cancel
‍You may cancel this agreement within three (3) business days of signing without penalty, as required by California state law. After this period, cancellations may be subject to forfeiture of any paid deposit, restocking fees, and/or costs incurred by the contractor up to the date of cancellation.

Payment Terms

Payments
‍A deposit is due upon approval of the quote. Balance is due upon project completion unless otherwise agreed in writing. Accepted payment methods include cash, check, Zelle, or debit/credit (fees may apply). Failure to remit final payment may result in collections or lien proceedings.

Delays or Access Issues

Project Delays or Access Restrictions
‍The client is responsible for ensuring access to the work area. Unforeseen delays due to weather, access, hidden utilities, or client-caused schedule changes may result in rescheduling and additional costs.

Pricing Validity

This quote is valid for 15 calendar days. After that, pricing may need to be adjusted to reflect current material or labor costs. We recommend confirming your project promptly to lock in this rate.

Legal Jurisdiction

Governing Law
‍This agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of California. Any disputes shall be resolved in San Bernardino County, California.

Kreative Gardens LLC, License # 1137272

Proposal for

Quote Summary

Detailed Scope & Pricing by Area

Zoom and Rotate

Grass Model Specifications

Selected Model

Specifications