Frequently Asked Questions

  • What's included in Manzano's 5-year construction warranty?

    The warranty covers workmanship and structural integrity of installed hardscapes, decks, retaining walls, and other built features. Because all work is completed in-house without subcontractors, accountability remains clear throughout the warranty period. This protects against installation defects and material failures under normal use.
  • How does Kent's climate affect irrigation system scheduling?

    Kent's wet winters and dry summers require seasonal irrigation adjustments to prevent overwatering during rainy months and drought stress in July through September. Systems need spring start-ups after freeze risk passes and fall winterization before temperatures drop. Proper timing prevents water waste and maintains year-round landscape health.
  • When should you use artificial turf instead of natural grass in the Seattle area?

    Artificial turf works best in shaded areas where moss outcompetes grass, high-traffic zones that turn muddy during wet months, and spaces where watering access is limited. It eliminates mowing and fertilizing while maintaining appearance year-round. Natural grass still outperforms turf in full-sun areas with good drainage.
  • What does seasonal treatment for moss control involve?

    Manzano applies proprietary fertilizer and moss-control treatments timed with seasonal growth cycles to suppress moss before it establishes. Treatments target fall and early spring when moisture levels favor moss over grass. This prevents the thick moss mats common in Pacific Northwest lawns and keeps turf dense enough to resist colonization.
  • Why does proper base preparation matter for paver installations?

    Without correct base depth and compaction, pavers shift, settle unevenly, and develop low spots that collect water. Base preparation involves excavation to proper depth, compacted gravel layers, and sand leveling. This prevents the sinking and separating that causes most paver failures within the first five years.
  • How do retaining walls handle drainage and ground pressure?

    Engineered retaining walls include drainage aggregate behind the wall, weep holes or drainage pipe at the base, and proper backfill to relieve hydrostatic pressure. Without drainage design, water builds up behind the wall and causes bulging or failure. Material selection and footing depth are sized based on wall height and soil type.
  • What's the difference between composite decks and wood decks for maintenance?

    Composite materials resist rot, splintering, and weather damage without annual staining or sealing. Wood decks require regular treatment to prevent moisture damage and UV fading. Composite costs more upfront but eliminates the recurring maintenance wood demands, especially in Kent's wet climate where moisture accelerates wood deterioration.
  • What affects landscape design decisions for sloped properties?

    Slope angle, soil stability, drainage patterns, and erosion risk all shape design choices. Retaining walls manage grade changes and prevent soil movement. Irrigation must account for runoff on slopes. Plant selection favors deep-rooted species that stabilize soil while tolerating varied moisture levels across the slope.
  • Why does Manzano only install wood and vinyl fencing instead of metal?

    Focusing on wood and vinyl allows specialized expertise in materials that match residential landscape aesthetics and integrate with plantings. Both materials suit privacy and boundary applications common in Kent-area properties. This focus ensures consistent installation quality rather than spreading across material types with different structural requirements.
  • How does irrigation system design prevent overwatering and dry spots?

    System design maps coverage zones based on sun exposure, plant water needs, and soil drainage rates. Sprinkler head placement ensures overlap without excessive concentration. Zone controllers allow separate timing for lawn, shrub beds, and shaded areas. This targets water delivery instead of applying uniform coverage across varied conditions.
  • What happens during an irrigation start-up and inspection?

    Technicians pressurize the system gradually, check each zone for coverage gaps and broken heads, adjust spray patterns, test controller programming, and inspect for winter damage or leaks. Seasonal start-ups catch issues before dry weather arrives and ensure the system runs efficiently throughout summer.
  • Why do putting greens need drainage design even though they're artificial?

    Without proper drainage, water pools on the turf surface after rain and creates unplayable conditions or promotes algae growth. Base design includes drainage layers and grade to move water away from the putting surface. This keeps the green playable year-round in Kent's wet climate and extends material lifespan.