How Slate & Sod works

What Slate & Sod does

Slate & Sod helps homeowners plan outdoor-living projects and get connected with local hardscape and outdoor-living builders. That can include a patio, walkway, retaining wall, fire pit, outdoor kitchen, pool deck, pergola, or a full backyard refresh.

We are a free matching service for homeowners. We are not a contractor, builder, or design firm, and we do not perform construction work. Our role is simple: help you organize the project basics, then connect you with licensed, insured local builders so you can compare written quotes and decide who to hire.

Step 1: Tell us about your project

When you get matched, we ask for basic contact and project details only. That usually includes your name, phone number, optional email, project type, ZIP code, rough budget, and preferred language.

That information helps us understand what you want and connect you with builders who work in your area. We do not need financial account numbers, Social Security numbers, income details, or sensitive personal records.

A little detail goes a long way. If you know your main goal — for example, "a paver patio for family dinners" or "a retaining wall to make the yard more usable" — that helps the builder start the conversation in the right place.

• Project type and ZIP help narrow the local fit
• A rough budget helps set realistic options
• Preferred language helps make communication easier

Step 2: We connect you with local builders

After we review your project details, we try to connect you with licensed, insured local builders who handle that kind of work. Availability can vary by area, season, and project type, so timing and matches are never guaranteed.

We encourage every homeowner to verify licenses and insurance directly and to ask questions about permits, schedule, materials, and cleanup. For gas lines, electrical work, drainage issues, and taller retaining walls, you should use qualified licensed pros, and permits may be required depending on your area.

If you want to learn more about our approach, you can visit About.

Step 3: Compare written quotes and scope

Once you speak with builders, ask each one for the same basic thing: a clear written scope, material description, timeline estimate, and total price. That makes it much easier to compare options fairly.

Outdoor-living costs can vary a lot by project size, materials, access, slope, drainage, soil conditions, demolition needs, and where you live in the US. A small paver patio may cost far less than a full backyard with a kitchen, pergola, lighting, drainage work, and custom stone. Any numbers you hear early are just ranges, not quotes.

You stay in control the whole time. You set the budget, compare written quotes, choose who to hire, and confirm the scope and price before work starts.

Step 4: Watch for red flags

A good contractor should be willing to explain the work in plain language and put the important details in writing. If something feels rushed or unclear, pause and compare a few options.

Common red flags include large cash-only deposits, no proof of license or insurance, vague quotes, no written contract, and pressure to sign right away. It is smart to get the scope and price in writing and compare a few quotes before making a decision.

If you want help with that process, read how to vet a contractor.

• Ask what is included — and what is not
• Confirm permits and inspections when required
• Make sure material choices are listed clearly

What it costs to use Slate & Sod

Slate & Sod is free for homeowners. There is no charge to tell us about your project and get connected.

Your project cost is separate and depends on what you decide to build, the materials you choose, site conditions, and your local market. Builders set their own pricing, and any quote should come directly from the builder after they review your project.

The best first step is to know your rough comfort range before you talk to anyone. That helps you focus on options that fit your yard and your budget.