Frequently Asked Questions

Clear Answers Before You Start an Outdoor Project in Southern Maryland

Planning outdoor work raises a lot of questions. This page covers the ones we hear most often so you can understand how projects work, what to expect, and whether our team is the right fit. If something isn’t answered here, a conversation is the next step.

Is McKenzie Contracting the Right Fit?

  • We’re a strong fit for projects that require planning, coordination, and proper site preparation. That includes outdoor living spaces, landscape design and build projects, drainage and grading corrections, excavation and site work, tree removal, forestry mulching, and commercial site services. Our process works best when the scope benefits from clear sequencing and one accountable team.

  • We work with all three. Most of our residential projects involve complete outdoor living, site work, or property improvements. We also support HOAs, commercial properties, and municipalities with grading, stormwater management, clearing, and structural work.

  • Very small, one-off tasks that don’t require planning or site evaluation may not be the best match. Our team is built for projects where coordination, equipment, and oversight matter.

  • Yes, many projects start with excavation, grading, drainage, or clearing before patios, decks, kitchens, or structures can be built. We manage both the groundwork and the finished features so the entire project moves forward as one plan.

  • Yes, we provide excavation and site preparation services, including grading, trenching, clearing, and base preparation to support landscaping, outdoor living construction, and property improvements.

  • We serve homeowners throughout Southern Maryland, including Owings, Laurel, Brandywine, Bowie, Severna Park, Crofton, California, Lexington Park, and Waldorf. Projects outside these areas may be considered depending on scope, access, and scheduling.

Services, Design, and What’s Possible

  • Yes, we provide complete landscape design and build services for homeowners across Southern Maryland, managing everything from planning and layout to construction and finishing details under one team. Many projects begin with excavation, grading, or drainage work to ensure long-term performance.

  • Yes, we design and build full outdoor living environments, including patios, decks, outdoor kitchens, lighting, shade structures, and integrated landscaping. These spaces are planned to function well together and hold up to Southern Maryland site conditions.

  • Yes, these elements are often planned as one cohesive outdoor space. Designing them together allows for better flow, safer transitions, and cleaner installation of utilities, lighting, and structures.

  • Yes, we design and install retaining walls, patios, and walkways that improve usability, manage elevation changes, and complement the surrounding landscape. These features are often integrated into larger outdoor living projects.

  • Lighting is most effective when planned early. It supports movement, visibility, and evening use of patios, decks, and walkways. When outdoor lighting is included during design, installation is cleaner and coverage is more consistent.

  • Yes, we address drainage, grading, and water management issues that affect yards, patios, and foundations. Proper grading and drainage planning are especially important for Southern Maryland properties and are often included as part of larger landscape or hardscape projects.

  • In many cases, it should be. Drainage and grading protect patios, decks, and structures from water issues. Excavation and site work often come first so the finished space performs the way it should long term.

  • Yes, we offer tree removal and forestry mulching services for homeowners throughout Southern Maryland to clear overgrowth, improve access, and prepare land for landscaping or construction while minimizing ground disturbance.

  • On many Southern Maryland properties, forestry mulching is used to clear brush and smaller trees by grinding vegetation into mulch, while tree removal involves cutting and hauling larger trees. We help determine the right approach based on property conditions and long-term plans.

  • Yes, we assist with storm-related tree removal, drainage problems, and site stabilization when safety or property access is a concern. Availability depends on conditions and current scheduling, and work is completed by licensed, insured crews.

Pricing, Planning, and Timelines

  • Pricing is based on scope, site conditions, materials, access, and complexity. Projects involving grading, drainage, structures, or utilities require careful planning so pricing is accurate from the start.

  • Many clients choose to complete projects in phases, such as starting with site work or a patio and adding structures or features later. We plan with future phases in mind so nothing has to be redone.

  • Timelines vary by scope and conditions. Smaller projects may take a few days, while larger outdoor living or site work projects may take several weeks. You’ll receive a clear schedule before work begins.

  • Spring and summer are popular, but many projects can begin earlier or extend into fall. Drainage, grading, and planning can often be done outside peak season, which helps keep schedules flexible.

  • Yes, we offer financing up to $100,000 through Home Service Finance, with same-day approvals available for qualifying projects. Financing details can be reviewed as part of the proposal process.

Process, Permits, and Communication

  • The process starts with a consultation at your Southern Maryland property. We review site conditions, discuss goals, and recommend the best approach based on budget and timeline. When required, we handle permitting, county coordination, and HOA considerations. Some projects are completed in phases to allow flexibility.

  • We meet on site to walk the property, review conditions, and talk through how the space is used. This includes evaluating slopes, drainage, access, and any existing issues that affect the plan.

  • Some projects do: decks, larger retaining walls, drainage systems, and structural work often require permits or engineering review. We handle that process when it applies.

  • After scheduling, your project manager becomes your main point of contact. They coordinate the work and keep communication clear throughout the project.

  • For projects lasting more than a day, your project manager provides regular updates so you know what’s happening and what’s next. Communication stays consistent from start to finish.

What Happens Next

If you’re considering an outdoor project and want clear answers before deciding anything, start with a conversation. We’ll talk through your property and explain what makes sense and what comes next. No pressure. Just straightforward guidance.

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