FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions About Pittsburgh Landscaping? We Have Answers.

Whether you're a Pittsburgh business owner curious about commercial landscaping services or a homeowner planning a large-scale outdoor project, we know you have questions before committing to a contractor. Below, we've answered the most common questions our clients ask about Esken Landscaping's services, process, service area, and what makes us different. With over 37 years of experience transforming properties across Pittsburgh and the surrounding communities, we're here to make your decision easy and your project exceptional.

How long has Esken Landscaping been in business?

Esken Landscaping has been proudly serving Pittsburgh and the surrounding communities since 1989 - that's over 37 years of landscaping and construction expertise. Our decades of experience mean we understand Pittsburgh's unique terrain, soil conditions, and seasonal weather patterns better than anyone, and we put that knowledge to work on every project we take on.

What landscaping services does Esken Landscaping offer?

We offer a comprehensive range of landscaping and construction services, including:

Whatever your property needs, our experienced team has the skills and equipment to get the job done right.

What areas does Esken Landscaping serve?

Esken Landscaping is headquartered at 360 Olympic Rd in Pittsburgh, PA 15236, and serves clients throughout the greater Pittsburgh area, including surrounding communities and municipalities. Not sure if we cover your location? Give us a call at 412-655-2834 and we'll be happy to confirm service availability in your area.

What types of commercial clients does Esken Landscaping work with?

Esken Landscaping has built a strong reputation working with some of Pittsburgh's most recognized businesses, institutions, and municipal organizations. Our commercial client portfolio includes major names such as UPMC, Tesla, First National Bank, Chipotle, Aldi, Valvoline, Panda Express, and Red Robin, among many others. If your business demands a property that makes a great impression year-round, we're the team to call.

Are rain gardens required for commercial construction and redevelopment projects in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County?

In many cases, yes. Pennsylvania's Chapter 102 and Chapter 105 regulations require most new commercial construction projects and significant redevelopment sites to submit a Post-Construction Stormwater Management (PCSM) Plan as part of the site approval process. Rain gardens and other Stormwater Control Measures (SCMs) such as bioretention cells, infiltration trenches, and vegetated swales are among the primary tools used to meet those requirements. Municipalities in Allegheny County that hold Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permits also have ongoing stormwater management obligations that green infrastructure can help satisfy. If you are planning a commercial project in the Pittsburgh area, working with a licensed and insured contractor who understands Pennsylvania DEP requirements and local municipal regulations from the start will save you time, money, and headaches down the road. Esken Landscaping has deep experience navigating these requirements for commercial and municipal clients across Allegheny County.

What kind of ongoing maintenance does a commercial rain garden require after installation?

One of the most appealing benefits of a professionally installed commercial rain garden is that it is a genuinely low maintenance stormwater solution compared to traditional pipe and inlet systems. Once native plants are established, typically within the first one to two growing seasons, a well-designed SCM requires far less upkeep than conventional turf or hardscape drainage systems. Routine maintenance generally includes periodic inspection after major storm events, removal of accumulated sediment or debris from inflow points, occasional weeding during the establishment period, and standard plant care such as pruning and replanting as needed over time. Properly designed rain gardens do not create chronic standing water or mosquito problems; a system that drains completely within 24 to 72 hours after a storm event is performing exactly as intended. Esken Landscaping installs every rain garden with long-term performance in mind, and our team is always available to answer questions or provide ongoing maintenance support for commercial and municipal clients throughout the Pittsburgh area.

What makes Esken Landscaping different from other Pittsburgh landscaping companies?

Several things set Esken Landscaping apart. First, our experience: with over 37 years serving Pittsburgh, we bring deep local knowledge to every project. Second, our in-house team: we never subcontract, so quality is always consistent. Third, our range: few landscaping companies in Pittsburgh offer the full spectrum of services we do, from excavation and grading to irrigation, rain gardens, and snow removal. And finally, our track record: decades of satisfied clients - from neighborhood homeowners to nationally recognized businesses - speak for themselves. When you hire Esken, you're hiring Pittsburgh's best.

Does Esken Landscaping work with both commercial and residential clients?

Yes! Esken Landscaping serves both commercial and residential clients throughout the Pittsburgh area. We specialize in commercial landscaping for businesses, institutions, and municipalities, but we also partner with homeowners on larger-scale residential projects that require professional-grade equipment and expertise - such as retaining walls, grading, irrigation systems, brick paver patios, and full-property plantings. If you have an ambitious outdoor project in mind, we'd love to hear about it.

How do I get a quote from Esken Landscaping?

Getting started is easy. Simply call us at 412-655-2834, or fill out the contact form to request a free estimate. We'll take the time to understand your goals, walk through your property's needs, and provide a clear, detailed quote with no surprises. We believe every great project starts with a great conversation.

Is hydroseeding a practical solution for large-scale commercial and municipal projects?

Absolutely. Hydroseeding is one of the most efficient and cost-effective methods available for large-scale revegetation, making it an ideal choice for commercial developments, municipal parks, highway corridors, stormwater retention areas, and construction site restoration throughout the Pittsburgh region. The process applies a slurry of grass seed, fertilizer, tackifier, and mulch in a single pass, allowing crews to cover expansive areas quickly — a major advantage over traditional hand seeding or sod installation on large properties. Hydroseeding also excels on slopes, embankments, and erosion-prone areas commonly found in commercial and infrastructure projects, helping contractors and municipalities meet erosion control and vegetation establishment requirements. Residential lawn installations are available as well, but our equipment and expertise are well-suited to handle projects of virtually any scale.

Does Esken Landscaping offer snow removal services?

Yes! We provide professional commercial snow removal services throughout the Pittsburgh area. Pittsburgh winters can be unpredictable, and keeping your property safe and accessible is a top priority. Our experienced crew and commercial-grade equipment are ready to respond when the snow starts falling, so your business or property stays clear all season long.

How long do retaining walls last, and what kind of maintenance do they require?

When properly designed and installed, retaining walls are built to last for decades. The lifespan varies depending on the material - concrete block and natural stone walls can last 50 years or more, while timber walls typically have a shorter lifespan of 20–30 years and are less common on larger commercial or municipal projects. Regardless of material, the key to long-term performance is proper drainage behind the wall. Without adequate drainage, hydrostatic pressure can build up and cause even well-built walls to shift or fail over time. At Esken Landscaping, we incorporate appropriate drainage solutions into every installation. Routine maintenance is minimal but important - periodic inspections for shifting, cracking, or drainage issues are recommended, especially after harsh Pittsburgh winters. Addressing small issues early is far more cost-effective than a full wall repair or replacement, and our team is available for ongoing assessments for both commercial clients and homeowners.

Can Esken Landscaping help with drainage and stormwater issues on my property?

Absolutely. Esken Landscaping specializes in stormwater management solutions, including professional rain garden design and installation. Rain gardens are an effective, eco-friendly way to manage runoff, reduce erosion, and improve the overall health and appearance of your property. Our team will assess your site's specific drainage challenges and design a solution that works - and looks beautiful doing it.