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Employee of the month
Every month the top managers vote on different areas of the company which include Hewlynn garden center, landscape construction, irrigation division, maintenance, and office representatives to determine who has gone above and beyond in expectations for the company. We base our decision off of how a particular person excels as a team player, and spirit of company values. This month’s employee of the month goes to ……
Martin Castro |
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Plant of the month
Cryptomeria japonica - Japanese Cryptomeria
It is a very large evergreen tree, reaching up to (230 ft) tall with (13 ft) trunk diameter, with red-brown bark which peels in vertical strips. The leaves are arranged spirally, needle-like, (0.20–0.39 in) long; and the seed cones globular, (0.39–0.79 in) diameter with about 20–40 scales. |
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Job of the month
Our client enjoys the peaceful, relaxing sights and sounds from a beautiful natural waterfall that flows into a tranquil free form swimming pool. This backyard oasis is a wonderful entertaining space that is complete with a large dining terrace and a custom masonry bar and outdoor kitchen.
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FAQs
Cement and Asphalt Questions
Q: How long must I stay off my new asphalt driveway?
A: You need to stay off your driveway with foot traffic for 24 hours and vehicle Traffic for a week.
Q: How long must I stay off my new cement?
A: Most cement will cure to the touch in a matter of hours, however it will not be properly cured for any significant weight for about 30 days. While this does not mean you need to stay off your cement for a month it does mean you should limit the amount and type of traffic to the area.
Q: When do I seal my new paving?
A: It is a good idea to wait 6-12 months before sealing.
Q: How long before my new cement can get wet?
A: Usually within 12 hours your cement is cure to get wet. Some times on really hot days within a few hours it’s actually a good idea to lightly spray your cement with water and you might see your installers doing so. This helps cement to keep cooler while the drying process occurs and may help the cement from cracking.
Q: Why do I see minor hairline cracks in my cement and what can you do about it?
A: Small minor cracks are very common on cement and can happen from many different things such as a very hot day, too much or too little water, and the ground below. Since we don’t make the cement and it is not an exact science therefore we cannot predict or guarantee the minor imperfections in the cement. Hairline cracks can and will happen and will not affect the longevity of your cement.
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Clean up Questions
Q: Why did I get my last cleanup and there are still leaves down on the property and leaves up on the trees?
A: Rest assured our crews do give your property a final clean up after the majority of the leaves have fallen. On certain years a lot of Oak trees in particular will retain up to 20% of their leaves for most of the winter and will push them off come spring with the new growth. During wind, rain and snowstorms some will continue to fall all winter long. This makes it impossible to have a “spotless property” during the winter. Also many of the surrounding not maintained homes and wooded areas help spread leaves as well. Rest assured that come your spring cleanup the leaves will all be removed. Which is the reason properties do need spring clean ups.
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Design Questions
Q: Why do I need a drawing?
A: A drawing is the perfect way to help you (the homeowner) visualize what you are getting. It is a plan view, which means you are looking down on your property. You are able to see everything outlined which helps you but in perspective what type of design you are getting.
Q: Do I have to pay for the drawing?
A: We do charge a fee for a design plan, because we give you an extremely detailed plan lay out with a plant library as well. If you decide to have us do the work then you will be credited back the amount of the drawing, in most circumstances when the work is installed.
Q: What if I don’t like the plan, and want to change it?
A: No problem, we pride ourselves on getting your design close to perfect the first time, but if you have changes to make we will gladly do them.
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Fencing Questions
Q: My gate doesn't’t close correctly?
A: Most problems occur when it’s very windy or change in weather from hot to cold this is called heaving. Small adjustments may be necessary, tightening or loosening of the hinge bolt. Before touching you should wait if it is cold out because it may correct itself when it gets warmer. Also check to see if there is any ice on surface because this changes clearance height.
Q: My wood fence is loose?
A: Most wooden fence posts that are installed between sections are not cemented in because they will rot the CCA post faster. After the post is installed at the height required, the post is backfilled and the soil is compacted to strengthen the section.
Sometimes rain and heavy winds can loosen the post. Compacting the soil around post again will fix problem.
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Holiday lighting Questions
Q: Why do I have lights out?
A: In most cases its because when an individual light goes out on a set it will not complete the electrical current necessary to light an entire set. It could also be that the fuse that installed in modern daylights by the manufacturer has blown. Either way you need to look at the set and use the process of elimination technique. The problem usually occurs in the first 10’ of where the lights went out. However sometimes it is easier to just replace the set.
Q: Why are my lights hanging off the roof or shrubs?
A: We use a variety of clips to affix lights to gutters, roof shingle, siding and plants but they are not permanently affixed, and do tend to sometimes come loose. Depending on wind, rain, snow or ice during the holiday season some years may be worse then others but we are as careful as we can be to make sure this happens as little as possible.
Q: Are the lights going to damage my house?
A: Plastic clips affix all lights on the house. If there are lights used on the roof peaks, or ridges other material might be used, but will not cause damage to the house.
Q; How do I turn everything on?
A: Basics installs on all homes a timer to each power source needed for lighting (depends on amount of lights and figures). Your timers will automatically go on at 4:30pm and off at 12:00 unless you give other times you would like to have.
Q: Am I going to see extension cords everywhere?
A: We try to hide wires as best as possible under the ‘j’ channel with homes that are siding, various clips for brick homes and under the mulch in the beds. This also makes it a safer environment.
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Irrigation and drainage Questions
Q: How do I eliminate that annoying wet spot on my lawn that makes it to wet for the kids to play on?
A: Wet spots on the grass are very common on LI. It could be an easy fix or difficult depending on the circumstances, first make sure it isn't a broken sprinkler head or other plumbing issue, if it is a clay spot it can be fixed by conditioning the soil over time with Gypsum and lime, or drainage could be added with a simple 9” X 9” box or a more expensive and complicated drywell depending on the severity of the situation. A bad clay spot will never feel completely dry.
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Lawn Maintenance
Q: Why are there tracks from the mowers in my lawn?
A: Based on where you are in a route, how much water is applied to your lawn or your property’s ability to absorb the moisture can be some of the reasons. While our crews are as careful as possible sometimes due to equipment weight, weather conditions and time of day light tracks may exist. They will go away and rest assured we are trying to keep them to a minimum.
Q: How come I have mushrooms growing?
A: Most mushrooms are from two sources. They are usually caused from either too much moisture in that particular area, or high acidity. The high acidity is usually caused from a decomposing substance such as a root or old tree stump, cut down the water and we will continue to add the lime. Always adjust your water using the 5-minute rule. Ask your representative to explain the rule if you are not sure.
Q: How come I have fungus on my lawn?
A: Most fungus we see on our lawns can be caused from heat, moisture, and humidity. Too much water sitting on the roots of your grass during the hottest part of the day is usually the culprit. All fungus can and will be properly treated in your pesticide applications of your maintenance contract. However time is the best cure when it comes to fungus.
Q: Why is my lawn turning brown and black in large areas?
A: Could be a water issue or a grub problem, have us take a look ASAP.
Q: Why is the grass not cut at the same height across the lawn (spring time)?
A: Most lawns have a mixture of different types of seed that grow at different times and rates. It is much more noticeable in the springtime because the grass is growing at the fastest rate of the season. Some lawns can grow 3” in a few days making some areas look higher than others. Rest assured that the grass is being cut at the right and even heights for the time of the year.
Q: How come the grass is not all the same color, lighter and darker?
A: Different types of grass seed and mixtures make up your lawn. Some grow faster or slower than others and have darker colors than others.
Q: Why was my lawn cut in the pouring rain?
A: During the spring and fall it could rain 5 or 6 times in a week. We have had years on LI where it has rained on and off for 2 weeks straight, making working conditions less than favorable but necessary, in order to keep your property in maintainable condition. When the grass gets too high it can clog, clump and fold over causing worse conditions then cutting it wet.
Q: What does damage from animal waste look like?
A: It is usually a spot of less than a foot wide in form of a small circle or oval of completely dead grass and then a really dark green fast growing ring around that.
Q: After the application of fertilizer, my lawn has a striped appearance to it. How come?
A: Usually that is the sign of fertilizer applied unevenly, however it also can be from different types of grasses reacting differently to the fertilizer. A Lawn and turf specialist would be happy to take a look.
Q: How important is it that I heed the water instructions concerning fertilizers?
A: Very Important! All applications applied to the lawn have specific directions that need to be followed to achieve optimal results. Many times not following the watering instructions can cause damage to your lawn.
Q: How long after a fertilizer is put down do my kids and pets have to stay off the lawn?
A: As per the label of most chemicals it is recommended that they stay of the lawn for 24 hours and 1 complete watering cycle.
Q: What duration should I be watering my lawn (spring, summer and fall)?
A: Every property is different however a good starting point is 30 minutes per zone every other day starting at 1am and stopping by 6AM during the spring and fall and 30 minutes per zone per day during the hottest summer months of July and August. However please remember shade, and soil conditions play a large factor on the amount of water ideal for a property.
Q: There seems to be a whitish/orange/bluish/etc. substance growing on and/or around my plants/shrubs? What is it and how can I get rid of it?
A: It is usually from moisture and decaying material such as the mulch in your beds. This is a normal situation and is not harmful to the plants or people. It is usually part of the decomposition process to turn mulch into topsoil and our maintenance crew will cultivate your beds to help the process. However the fungus can sometimes grow very quickly and can reform in hours or days. It will eventually go away.
Q: There seems to be a lot of crab grass and/or broad leaf weeds in my lawn (summer). Why can’t you spray them and kill them?
A: When the temperature is extremely hot or humid the chemicals can cause damage to the grass. Our lawn and turf program will treat for all the problems on your lawn throughout the whole year. Within a year you will see a noticeable difference have faith and be patient.
Q: What could happen if I over water?
A: You could cause fungus and mushrooms, mud spots or root rot. Over watering is just as bad as not enough.
Q: I always seem to have dandelions. How can you get rid of them?
A: Dandelions are very invasive weeds because they are usually blow from other properties and areas from far distances on to yours. Come spring and early fall we post treat to eliminate these little pests.
Q: Do you recommend putting mulch down?
A: Mulch is a great insulator. It helps to keep moisture in the ground and keep weeds growing slower. It also is a good blanket for the winter and a great look for the spring and summer. Mulch generally lasts for 6 months to a year and then quickly changes over to topsoil. To keep mulch for as long as possible we recommend not cultivating it.
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Office and billing Questions
Q: How can I receive less paper work in the mail from your office?
A: We offer a paperless billing system directly through your email; just email us or call our office. We also offer different ways to pay your monthly maintenance bill such as automatic credit card payments to reduce your paper work as well.
Q: Why do I need to fill out a Capital Improvement Form?
A: As required by New York State Sales Tax, if the project meets certain criteria which will allow the work provided to be considered a permanent improvement, then we, the contractor are not required to collect the sales tax. We must keep the original form on file in order to document this and we will send you a copy solely for your records.
Q: Why did I receive a late fee?
A: Late fees are assessed when the payment is not received within the grace period of the billing cycle. For reoccurring monthly bills, the due date is the 1st of the month. Any account of which we do not receive payment by the 10th of the same month will be charged the $20 fee.
Q: I had an estimate and now I want to sign up for the work to be done, what is the next step?
A: We need to have your signature on file authorizing us to perform the work and accepting the terms and conditions of the contract. Once the contract is signed, you can either fax or mail it or stop into the office in person. At this time we also require the deposit amount as detailed within your contract to schedule you and place the order for your materials.
Q: I am signed up for automatic monthly credit card payment, why did I receive an invoice in the mail or by e-mail?
A: We supply everyone a copy of the invoice for your records.
Q: What credit cards to you accept for payment?
A: Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express
Q: I would like to pay my bill online, is this possible?
A: Currently you can pay your bill online through your bank. We are in the process of setting up the program to have individual account access on line to view transactions, account balances and make payments in a secured method.
Q: Do you give out my information to others?
A: We value our client’s privacy and security so we do not give our or sell our extensive client database. Upon your consent we may include your name and phone number on our client reference sheet.
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Paver Questions
Q: What is the white stuff on my pavers?
A: The whitish powder like deposit that sometimes appears on your pavers is called efflorescence. It may appear immediately or within a short time after installation. This is a normal occurrence in all cement-based products; it should dissipate on its own.
Q: Should I seal my pavers?
A: We do recommend it for keeping your pavers looking new for years to come. The process can be done every year or every 2-3 years this depends on the homeowner’s preferences.
Q: How can I remove oil or grease stains on my pavers?
A: Mop up any excess oil with rags. Cover the area with oil absorbent talc. Leave it on the stain for a day and then sweep up and wash off. Apply an oil remover product that will not harm the pavers follow the directions when using all chemicals. It may be easier and less time consuming just to change the stained pavers.
Q: There are leaf stains on my pavers what can I do?
A: Apply household bleach (not to much, you can dilute with water as well) and scrub with a stiff bristled brush. Be sure to wash thoroughly with water when finished. However keep in mind that most leaf stains will fade naturally with time and the elements.
Q: Is there a way to remove food drippings from my pavers?
A: For stubborn stains, apply liquid detergent full strength and allow it to penetrate 20-30 minutes. Scrub and rinse with hot water. Removal is easier if stains are treated immediately.
Q: What can I use on my new pavers if it is icy?
A: We strongly recommend using calcium chloride, which does the least amount of damage. DO NOT use rock salt and/or salt-sand, these will eat away at the cement.
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Pergolas, cabanas, decking and Questions
Q; How often do I need to stain or paint my deck?
A: Every 2 years but it really depends on the amount of shade and moisture around your woodwork. It also depends on your preference
Q: Does wood splinter?
A: It is not unusual for wood to splinter but different types of wood have different grain patterns and densities, which make them more prone to splintering, splitting or cracking.
Q: If I don’t paint or stain my deck will it change color?
A: Yes, wood naturally changes color. It will turn to a weathered gray color within a year. You could power wash the surface once a year to help retain the original color and beauty.
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Planting Questions
Q: It looks like the shrub is browning out. I just had it planted?
A: Most of the time the shrub has miner shock even though you may think it is major. Depending on different elements (time of year, amount of water, sun or shape) a shrub can go threw a period where it will wilt or brown out while adjusting to the new environment. If the process continues or gets worse please contact your representative.
Q: The mulch eroded out of the bed after it rained?
A; New mulch has a greater chance to move because it has not packed down. After a couple of rains it will stop. If it continues then maybe gutter leaders are overwhelming the area. This can be fixed by doing minor drainage work to redirect water.
Q: Why is my tree leaning?
A: A tree needs time to root it self after being planted. Depending on type and size of the tree also determines how top heavy it is. Sometimes the wind can move a tree. Call the office for a representative to come and take a look. We may need to repack area or install a tree stake kit. Kits are charged to the client upon request, if the tree is not under a guarantee.
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Pond and waterfall Questions
Q: I think my water feature is leaking.
A: A small amount of water lost can sometimes happen during the hotter times of the year. On a hot day a pond can lose up to 1 1/2” of water from normal evaporation. Depending on how much rock boulders and gravel is used can cause a decent amount of evaporation alone. The temperature in the air will determine the amount of evaporation. Should be watching to make sure water levels don’t drop past certain levels, which can cause a problem to pump and accessories. If the feature loses water fast when it is on or drops when it is off then call to have someone to come and take a look.
Q: How long should I run my water feature?
A: Usually you should run it when you are going to appreciate it. They are built to run 24-7 but, these pumps do require a lot of electric depending on the gph(gallon per hour). We recommend 4 to 8 hours everyday to keep the water fresh or to get enough Oxygen to the fish.
Q; I have a pond-less waterfall and its not running as strongly anymore.
A: You probably need to add a little water to it. Even though you think you don’t have a pond, you do. A liner is placed under the rocks to hold water to operate a waterfall so for future practice you should always see just a small amount of water at the top of the rocks so you know the pond is full and this will not happen. If the pond is still running slow and it is full the bottom of the pump could be clogged and you need to dig the pump out and clean off the filter on the pump, this occurrence is rare. Please call if you think this is the problem.
Q: Why is my water green?
A: Ponds with filter systems may need filter poly pads to be cleaned. If this is not the case and you have a pond-less waterfall then you may need to apply an algaecide additive or a small amount of pool shock to the water. When you have fish in the pond make sure you follow directions carefully with all chemicals.
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Retaining wall Questions
Q: Do I need a permit?
A: If it is replacing an existing wall usually not. However it is important to check with the local town building code because all town rules and regulations are different. We can tell you who to call or contact for the right information, however all permits are the sole responsibility of the homeowner.
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Seed and Sod Questions
Q: Will my seed look like sod?
A: With the proper water, light, maintenance and chemical program all seed planted by us will look like sod within 1 full year.
Q: How long before I should cut my new Sod?
A: In most cases Sod can be cut as soon as a week, you should never let sod go more than 10 days before first cut. To make sure sod is ready to be cut, pull on it, if it feels like it is starting to root then cut carefully.
Q: How often do I water my Grass?
A: Every lawn is different, and your sales representative or foreman should have set your Irrigation system to a good starting time, and explained the 5-minute rule on adjusting the water. Please remember when checking your lawn check all areas of the lawn a zone covers with the “feel test” to make sure you do not over or under water the area. Always wait a few days between checks and never change a zone by more than 5 minutes to see how that area adjusts.
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Snow Removal
Q: When do you clean fallen snow?
A: Our crews go out approximately 2 to 3 hours before the snowstorm has finished, over the years our crews have had the most success with this method. It means most of the major accumulating snow has finished and we can safely and effectively remove it with the least inconvenience and expense to you. If you are at the beginning of a route and more than 1” of snow falls after we come your crew does go back and remove significant accumulation free of charge.
Q: Why is there ice still on my driveway?
A: Do to the nature of the storm and the temperatures some times ice can not be removed from the driveway safely and effectively by hand or machine we recommend calcium chloride for these situations, please do not use rock salt unless absolutely necessary.
Q: Why do you charge a different amount to clean snow over 8”?
A: Unfortunately over 8” snow can become significantly more difficult to remove and clean it can require more equipment, time and or manpower. All of our clients will be charged an additional hourly rate based on the additional time spent, however the price still will be lower than that of a client without a snow removal agreement with us.
Q: Why do you have to come so early in the morning to clean?
A: Time is of the essence for snow, people need to get out of their driveways for work, activities, and emergencies. During a snowstorm our crews never stop to make sure all of our clients have their snow removed as quickly as possible.
Q: How can I avoid a bill if I decide to clean the snow myself?
A: Many of our clients love our service so they do not have to freeze or hurt their back, others just don’t have the time to do it themselves. However, if that feeling changes during the course of the season please just remember to call our office and even if no one answers just leave a voicemail up to two hours before the snow begins. Our office people work throughout the snowstorm checking and returning phone calls. If you have the time and decide to do it yourself or you feel there is not enough snow just remember to call. Once a crew is out it is to late to cancel and you will be charged your normal rate.
Q: Can I get my driveway/walkway salted if there is less than 2” of snow?
A: Yes, we always have crews available to service your house. Call our office and they will advise you of the price, wait, and options for each particular event.
Q: There is still some snow left on my driveway. Can you come back and clean it?
A: If there is more than 2” yes and in some cases even if there is less. Our foremen always recheck your driveway if there was additional snow from when they started. However minor accumulations, ice builds up from traffic or street plows, causing more snow at an entrance are not included in your service contract and there might be additional charge for additional removal.
Q: Why do you clean the snow twice? Why did you begin to clean the snow before the end of the storm?
A: During major storms it is sometimes necessary to remove snow twice to keep the machinery and people working efficiently and properly. It also is important to keep areas accessible for emergencies.
Q: Why does my cleanup crew not remove the snow compacted by my tires?
A: Unfortunately, once snow has been compacted and frozen to a surface it becomes dangerous to remove from asphalt, cement and interlocking pavers without causing damage. Our crews will try to remove as much as possible without causing damage however it is strongly recommended to limit the amount of movement on your driveways and walkways before the snow has been removed.
Q: What is the on-call fee for? Why do I have to pay it?
A: We have implemented the on call fee over 10 years ago to help everyone save time and money. It helps us lock in your prices and guarantees. It also helps us to have people and equipment ready for you incase the weather people are wrong or right.
Q: Why is it necessary for me to remove newspapers, toys, etc. from my driveway?
A: This is to keep our staff and equipment from getting hurt or damaged. The equipment on your property is expensive and when one of these items gets stuck or lodged into it takes extensive time and money to repair.
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Trimming Questions
Q: Why does my crew trim everything so manicured?
A: You are able to choose your trimming style of your property on the maintenance service agreement you filled out, if you don’t like your trimming style please call the office to change your style we have 3 styles to choose from manicured, semi manicured and natural.
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*** If you don’t see your questions please feel free to send an email of your question and an expert in our company will answer it within 24 hours. ***
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