Frequently Asked Questions – South Shore Landscaping
Do you have any questions about our landscaping services?
Here we have compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about paving stones, asphalt, low walls, landscaping, lawns, and poolside landscaping. Whether you’re planning a project on Montreal’s South Shore or simply want to learn more, this section will help you better understand our methods, materials, and the steps involved in the project.
If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact us; our team will be happy to assist you.
Laying paving stones
Exterior retaining wall
Very little. A well-built retaining wall is virtually maintenance-free.
We recommend a visual inspection every spring, after the ground thaws: check that no blocks have shifted and that the drainage is working properly.
A small problem caught early costs much less than having to rebuild the entire retaining wall.
Get a free estimate for your retaining wall
Most residential projects take between 2 and 5 business days.
A small decorative wall measuring 10 meters can be completed in a day and a half. A large retaining wall on steep terrain may take a full week (excavation, drainage, block installation).
Each project is evaluated on a case-by-case basis—timelines are always confirmed before work begins.
We work with three main types of materials:
Precast concrete blocks (such as Unilock and Allan Block) – sturdy, durable, and modern in appearance.
Natural stone—a rustic and timeless look.
Engineered stone—an excellent compromise between the two.
In all cases, installation includes an adequate drainage system (French drain, crushed stone) to ensure long-term stability.
This varies by municipality. As a general rule, a retaining wall less than 1 meter (about 3 feet) high does not require a permit in most cities on the South Shore and North Shore.
If the wall is taller than that, or if it alters the natural drainage toward a neighbor’s property, a permit is often required.
At Terrassement Euro, we check the municipal regulations for your area during the free assessment.
Why should I install a retaining wall in my landscaping?
A retaining wall serves two purposes: structural and aesthetic.
Technically, it holds back soil, prevents erosion, and improves drainage. Visually, it creates levels in your outdoor space.
On sloped terrain in Brossard, Longueuil, or Terrebonne, a well-designed retaining wall transforms a challenge into a true landscaping asset.
See our retaining wall services
Planting and laying turf
Asphalt paving
Between 15 and 25 years for a properly installed and well-maintained driveway.
Longevity depends primarily on the quality of the granular base: proper compaction to a depth of 6 to 8 inches is essential to prevent premature settlement.
Harsh de-icing agents (excessive salt) and heavy vehicles are the main factors contributing to accelerated wear.
Yes, provided the installation is done properly.
A solid granular base and high-density asphalt allow water to drain properly without freezing beneath the surface.
At Terrassement Euro, we use mixtures suited to northern conditions and pay special attention to soil preparation.
Wait 6 to 12 months after installation before applying the first sealant.
New asphalt contains oils that need to evaporate naturally. If applied too soon, the sealant traps these oils and softens the surface.
After that, reapply every 2 to 3 years, in the spring or fall, on a dry, mild day.
1 to 2 days for a standard residential driveway.
Day 1: Excavation and preparation of the base. Day 2: Laying, compacting, and leveling the asphalt.
You can use your driveway the very next day, but wait 48 to 72 hours before parking heavy vehicles on it, especially in hot weather.
Asphalt is an economical and quick option that can often be installed in a single day.
It provides a smooth surface ideal for vehicles, withstands tire pressure well, and is easy to maintain with periodic sealing.
For homeowners who want a clean, functional result at a reasonable cost, it’s an excellent choice.
See our asphalt installation service
Landscaping
Landscaping involves planning, structuring and beautifying residential outdoor spaces.
It enhances the aesthetics of the property, increases its value and promotes a pleasant, functional environment.
We offer a full range of services, including interlocking paving stones, retaining walls, plantings, pool surrounds, outdoor lighting and more.
Each project is tailored to your needs and the style of your property.
Yes, we offer customized plans for every project, including visual renderings and expert advice on optimizing your outdoor space.
The cost depends on a number of factors: size of site, type of materials, complexity of design. We offer detailed, transparent quotes after a free evaluation.
Depending on the scale of the project, this can take from a week to several weeks.
Advance planning and coordination with the customer ensure that everything runs smoothly.
Yes, we serve major communities such as Brossard, Longueuil, Saint-Hubert, Saint-Lambert, and surrounding areas on the South Shore, and on the North Shore such as Terrebonne, Mirabel, St-Eustache and surrounding areas. We also serve Montreal and surrounding areas.
Landscaping around the pool
Drainage is often overlooked, but it is crucial. Water that accumulates around the pool can cause slippage, muddy areas, and structural damage.
We always plan for a slight slope away from the pool (1–2%), combined with surface drains or a French drain, depending on the terrain.
Yes. Bollards, recessed paver lights, low-wall lighting, and spotlights on plants—we integrate lighting directly into the project design.
Good lighting extends the use of your outdoor space into the evening, improves safety around the pool, and creates a unique atmosphere.
We work with energy-efficient and durable low-voltage LED systems.
Yes, it is a legal requirement. Any outdoor pool containing 60 cm or more of water must be surrounded by a compliant fence.
Regulations require: a minimum height, restricted spacing between the bars, a self-closing gate, and latches out of children’s reach.
Regulations vary slightly by municipality. We can advise you on options that blend aesthetically with your project.
Flat pavers are our top recommendation for pool surrounds.
They offer a slip-resistant surface even when wet, resistance to chemicals (chlorine, salt), durability, and impeccable aesthetics. Stamped concrete slabs are also very popular for their monolithic appearance.
We do not recommend natural wood around in-ground pools—it rots and requires high maintenance.
Successful integration depends on three key elements: circulation, functional zones, and aesthetics.
First, consider the access points (secure entrance, path to the house); then, the living spaces (lounge area, sun terrace); and finally, the decorative elements (low wall, landscaping, lighting).
Our custom designs include visual renderings to help you visualize the final result before construction begins.
Pricing, Bidding, and Project Execution
The cost varies depending on several factors: the size of the lot, the type of pavers chosen, the complexity of the design, and the excavation work required. Every lot is different, which makes it impossible to provide a fixed price without an on-site assessment.
What we can say is this: pavers represent a higher upfront investment than asphalt, but they offer superior durability and real added value when it comes time to sell. The best way to get an accurate estimate is through our free, no-obligation assessment.
There are three ways to contact us: by phone at 450-447-8886 (South Shore) or 514-254-6956 (Montreal), or via our online form.
A representative will contact you to schedule a free assessment visit. We assess the size of the site, any site-specific constraints, and your needs, then provide you with a detailed and transparent quote. No hidden fees. No pressure.
Yes. We offer a labor warranty on all our work. The terms and conditions are clearly outlined in your contract.
If a covered issue arises, our team will respond promptly. Many of our customers come back to us for other projects or recommend us to their neighbors—that’s our best endorsement.
In the spring (May–June), our schedule can be booked up 4 to 8 weeks in advance. In the summer and fall, lead times are often shorter.
We recommend planning and booking early in the year, especially if you’re aiming to complete the project before summer.
The peak season runs from May to November on the South Shore and the North Shore.
Paved surfaces and asphalt: ideally May through October. Lawn and planting: May or August–September. Low walls: almost all season long.
If you want the project to be fully ready before summer, early May is still the best time to get started.
Areas We Serve | Terrassement Euro
South Shore: Longueuil, Brossard, Greenfield Park, Saint-Lambert, Saint-Hubert, La Prairie, Candiac, Delson, Saint-Constant, Boucherville, Varennes, Sainte-Julie.
Montreal: the entire island — Rosemont, Ahuntsic, Anjou, Saint-Laurent, NDG, and surrounding areas.
North Shore: Laval, Terrebonne, Mascouche, Blainville, Saint-Eustache, Mirabel, Rosemère, Boisbriand.
Not sure if your area is covered? Contact us—we serve a wide area around Montreal.
Terrassement Euro is a long-established company with a reputation built on quality workmanship and a commitment to delivering on our promises.
We hold RBQ (#8102-2444-18) and CCQ (#64-239482) licenses—a guarantee of reliability and compliance.
Hundreds of completed projects on the South Shore, in Montreal, and on the North Shore attest to our expertise.
Yes. For complex projects, we work with respected landscape architects, including Richard Bélisle, a local expert.
This collaboration allows us to provide detailed plans and visual renderings before work begins—which is particularly useful for projects that combine swimming pools, paving, low walls, landscaping, and lighting.
Absolutely. We are available:
Monday to Friday: 8 AM to 6 PM
Saturday and Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM
South Shore: 450 447.8886 | Montreal: 514 254.6956
No pressure, no sales pitch — just honest advice to help you make the right choice.