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Your Backyard Project Questions, Answered

Planning a pool, landscape design, or full backyard transformation often comes with a lot of questions. At Urban Outdoor Solutions, we believe homeowners should have clear answers before starting any project.

Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we receive about custom pools, outdoor living spaces, and backyard construction throughout the East Valley of Arizona.

Process FAQs

How does your process start?
Our process starts with a discovery call to understand your goals, vision, and budget. From there, we schedule an on-site consultation to evaluate your space and begin planning the design.
Yes. We are a full design-build company, which means we handle everything from initial design and 3D renderings to construction and final walkthrough. This keeps your project organized and consistent from start to finish.
Yes. We handle the necessary permits and coordinate any required site engineering as part of the project. Our team manages these details so you don’t have to navigate the process on your own.
Project timelines vary depending on the size and complexity of the work. Smaller upgrades may take a few weeks, while full backyard transformations or pool builds can take several months. We provide a clear timeline during the planning phase so you know what to expect.
We serve homeowners throughout the East Valley, including Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek, Mesa, San Tan Valley, Scottsdale, Tempe, Phoenix, and surrounding areas.

Landscape Design FAQs

What are some of our favorite plants for an Arizona landscape?
For a beautiful softscape, we love incorporating vibrant color with clean greenery. Purple Lantana, Dwarf Myrtle, Hopseed, and the Seedless Desert Willow are a few of the plants we incorporate most. However, every yard is unique, and we will help you select the right combination of plants to perfectly fit your space.
New plants will need more frequent watering at the start while they establish roots. Once established, most Arizona-friendly landscapes can be maintained with deeper, less frequent watering. We design irrigation systems to keep water use efficient long term.
Yes, we warranty most of our plants for 90 days. Some specific plants have different warranties however, we’ll go over the details during your proposal so you know exactly what’s covered and how to maintain your plants.
Xeriscape is a landscaping approach focused on water efficiency. It uses drought-tolerant plants, smart irrigation, and thoughtful design to reduce water use while still creating a visually appealing outdoor space.
Yes, we can evaluate your current irrigation system and determine if it can be adjusted or upgraded to support your new landscape. Our goal is to make sure your system is efficient and supports long-term plant health.

Artificial Turf FAQs

Is artificial turf safe for kids and pets?
Absolutely. All the turf products we install are made from non-toxic, lead-free materials and are designed to be safe for the whole family, including your four-legged members.
With proper care, you can expect your high-quality artificial turf to last 15–20 years. The UV-stabilized fibers are designed to resist fading and stand up to the Arizona sun.
Yes, like any outdoor surface in the Arizona sun, artificial turf will get hot to the touch during peak summer hours. However, a quick rinse with a garden hose provides immediate evaporative cooling, making the surface comfortable.
Our turf products have a perforated backing that allows water to drain through. We also ensure the sub-base is properly graded and compacted so water flows away from your home’s foundation.
Maintenance is minimal. Occasional rinsing and brushing in high-traffic areas keeps the turf clean and the fibers upright.

Outdoor Kitchen FAQs

How much does a custom outdoor kitchen cost?
The investment varies widely depending on size, appliances, and materials. A simple BBQ island might start around $10,000 – $15,000, while a large fully-equipped kitchen can reach $50,000 or more.
A high-quality grill is essential. Popular additions include an outdoor refrigerator, sink, and side burner. Some homeowners also add pizza ovens, warming drawers, or a griddle.
Once the design and materials are finalized, the construction process typically takes 2–4 weeks depending on complexity and inspection schedules.
We recommend choosing a countertop that matches or complements your outdoor decking to complete the space. Porcelain is the most durable option available, though certain natural stones are also excellent choices for a luxury finish.
Yes. In most cases permits are required for gas and electrical work. As a licensed contractor, Urban Outdoor Solutions handles the entire permitting process.

Custom Pool FAQs

How much should I budget for a custom pool?
Custom pool costs depend on size, materials, and features. Our team works with homeowners to design a pool that fits their goals and budget. To get a rough idea of potential cost, please visit our pool pricing calculator here.
Most custom pool projects take about 3 to 4 months from our initial consultation to completion. The exact timeline depends on the complexity of your specific design and city requirements, but it generally breaks down into two main phases: 4 to 6 weeks for engineering and permits, followed by 6 to 12 weeks of active construction based on the overall scope of the project.
Yes. Urban Outdoor Solutions partners with trusted lenders to offer flexible financing options.
Gunite pools offer superior durability and unlimited design flexibility compared to fiberglass or vinyl liner pools.
Yes. The company specializes in full backyard design-build projects that integrate pools with landscaping, hardscaping, lighting and more.

New Pool Build FAQs

What is the real difference between gunite and shotcrete?
Gunite is a dry mix applied with water at the nozzle, while shotcrete is a wet pre-mixed application. Both are durable and widely used for concrete pool construction.
Most projects take about 6–12 weeks once construction begins.
Yes. Urban Outdoor Solutions specializes in complete backyard transformations including landscaping, patios, and outdoor living features.
Saltwater pools generate chlorine using a salt-chlorine generator, producing softer water that is gentler on skin and eyes.
No. The team handles all permitting with local municipalities.

Pool Remodeling FAQs

How long does a typical pool renovation take?
Simple resurfacing may take 1–2 weeks, while larger remodels with decking and new features can take 3–5 weeks.
In many cases renovation is more cost-effective if the existing pool shell is structurally sound.
Yes. Many renovations include adding spas, Baja shelves, waterfalls, or other custom features.
Signs include stains, rough surfaces, or cracks. Pools older than 10–15 years often need resurfacing.
It is possible but typically expensive and ends up costing similar or more to starting fresh. Most remodels focus on upgrading tile, decking, and features instead that can achieve big impact changes.

Irrigation & Drainage FAQs

What is a “smart” irrigation controller?
A smart controller connects to Wi-Fi and uses weather data to automatically adjust watering schedules.
Drip irrigation delivers water directly to plant roots, reducing evaporation and improving plant health.
Signs include standing water after rain or water pooling near your home’s foundation.
A French drain is a trench with gravel and a perforated pipe that redirects water away from problem areas.
We are a design and installation firm, so we do not offer standalone repair services. Depending on the age and condition of your current irrigation, we can sometimes integrate it, but we typically recommend a full system replacement to ensure your new landscape thrives.

Landscape Lighting FAQs

What are the main benefits of professional landscape lighting?
The biggest benefits are beauty, safety, and security.
Systems can start around $3,500 and reach $15,000+ depending on the size of the property.
Yes. LED systems are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and provide warm, high-quality light.
The company installs professional-grade solid brass fixtures designed to withstand harsh climates.

In-Ground Spa FAQs

Can you add a spa to my existing pool?
Yes, absolutely. We specialize in designing and engineering spas that seamlessly integrate with existing pools. We’ll assess your current layout and provide a 3D design showing how we can create a beautiful, cohesive addition.
In-ground spas require regular maintenance similar to a pool, but on a smaller scale. This includes checking water chemistry, cleaning filters, and ensuring proper circulation. With the right setup and routine care, maintenance is simple and can often be handled in just a few minutes each week.
A salt water system can be a great option for many homeowners because it provides a softer feel on the skin and reduces the need for traditional chlorine. However, it’s not always the best fit for every spa setup. We help you choose the right system based on how you plan to use your spa and your maintenance preferences.
The timeline for building a standalone spa typically ranges from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the design, materials, and site conditions. Custom features, permitting, and integration with other outdoor elements can also impact the schedule.
An in-ground gunite spa is fully custom-built to match your outdoor space and offers greater flexibility in size, shape, and features. It becomes a permanent part of your landscape and can be integrated with pools, patios, and other elements. A portable hot tub, on the other hand, is pre-manufactured, easier to install, and more budget-friendly, but it offers less customization and a different overall look and feel.

Luxury Feature FAQs

What are the most impactful luxury features for a new pool?
For maximum impact, we often recommend a combination of water features, spa, and fire elements. A large sun shelf or Baja shelf, integrated spa, and deck jets or sheer descents tend to create the most visual appeal while enhancing how the space is used.
Yes, in many cases we can upgrade your existing pool with new features like spas, water features, lighting, or fire elements. We’ll evaluate your current setup to determine what can be added and design upgrades that blend seamlessly with your space.
The cost can vary depending on the type and number of features you choose. Simple upgrades like lighting or water features may be more modest, while custom spas, fire features, and automation systems can increase the investment. We’ll help you prioritize features that fit your vision and budget.
Yes, when designed and installed properly, fire features are very safe around pools. We follow strict safety guidelines for placement, ventilation, and materials to ensure everything functions safely while adding a striking visual element to your outdoor space.
A Baja shelf, also known as a sun shelf, is a shallow area of the pool designed for lounging. It’s perfect for placing chairs, relaxing in the water, or giving kids a safe place to play while staying cool.