Kevin B. VanErt, Jr. established VanErts Lawn Service in 1997, beginning as a residential mowing company. At age 16, he mowed 40 lawns a week in a manufactured home neighborhood. After high school, Kevin planned to attend college to study engineering, but decided to wait one year to earn funding. Soon, four years had gone by and the company grew from a push mower in the back of his parents Suburban to trailers, riding mowers and his second pick-up truck. The possibilities of success soon outweighed the option of attending college. Over the next five years, landscaping became his passion. Learning to run the business was difficult, but working outdoors and creating unique projects was fun. After working on many national disaster projects through local churches and Samaritans Purse, Kevin decided to start doing more building construction projects and now focuses on hardscapes and home repair work.
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Kelly S on April 2021
Kevin B. VanErt, Jr. established VanErts Lawn Service in 1997, beginning as a residential mowing company. At age 16, he mowed 40 lawns a week in a manufactured home neighborhood. After high school, Kevin planned to attend college to study engineering, but decided to wait one year to earn funding. Soon, four years had gone by and the company grew from a push mower in the back of his parents Suburban to trailers, riding mowers and his second pick-up truck. The possibilities of success soon outweighed the option of attending college. Over the next five years, landscaping became his passion. Learning to run the business was difficult, but working outdoors and creating unique projects was fun. After working on many national disaster projects through local churches and Samaritans Purse, Kevin decided to start doing more building construction projects and now focuses on hardscapes and home repair work.
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Kelly S on April 2021
Great Lakes Landscape Plus Inc. is a family owned business located in Monroe, covering surrounding cities. With the better part of a decade of industry experience, you can trust us to deliver top tier quality. Put your trust in us that your project will be done right the first time, every time. "We'll hop to your project!" Call today to set an appointment, we look forward to working with you.
"We hired Great Lakes Landscape Plus to add top soil and raise the grade of our front yard, raise and expand our flower beds, plant a dozen or more perennials, install decorative stone retainers, and much, much more. We liked their dedication and work ethic and decided to hire them for “Phase 2” which involved creating a new flower bed, adding an additional retaining wall, more plants, and of course a lot of mulch. Overall, we found them to be reasonably priced, diligent, friendly, hard working, and they communicated very well with us with special attention to ensuring we were happy with the plant choices and placement. As finances permit we intent to enlist them for “Phase 3” in the future. I highly recommend them for your all your landscaping needs."
John G on June 2022
Great Lakes Landscape Plus Inc. is a family owned business located in Monroe, covering surrounding cities. With the better part of a decade of industry experience, you can trust us to deliver top tier quality. Put your trust in us that your project will be done right the first time, every time. "We'll hop to your project!" Call today to set an appointment, we look forward to working with you.
"We hired Great Lakes Landscape Plus to add top soil and raise the grade of our front yard, raise and expand our flower beds, plant a dozen or more perennials, install decorative stone retainers, and much, much more. We liked their dedication and work ethic and decided to hire them for “Phase 2” which involved creating a new flower bed, adding an additional retaining wall, more plants, and of course a lot of mulch. Overall, we found them to be reasonably priced, diligent, friendly, hard working, and they communicated very well with us with special attention to ensuring we were happy with the plant choices and placement. As finances permit we intent to enlist them for “Phase 3” in the future. I highly recommend them for your all your landscaping needs."
John G on June 2022
Concrete Auto LLC is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"Winter was comeing in fast and they were here evryday.They worked hard trying to finish before snow.They worked long hours and did a wonderful job finishing the driveway to the specs we requested..They were extremely professional .We were so happy with their work.We hired them to come back in spring and lay a sidewalk and a slab in our back yard.They did what others said couldn't be done due to dropping temperatures. We recommend them for all your concrete work."
james m on December 2021
Concrete Auto LLC is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"Winter was comeing in fast and they were here evryday.They worked hard trying to finish before snow.They worked long hours and did a wonderful job finishing the driveway to the specs we requested..They were extremely professional .We were so happy with their work.We hired them to come back in spring and lay a sidewalk and a slab in our back yard.They did what others said couldn't be done due to dropping temperatures. We recommend them for all your concrete work."
james m on December 2021
5 Star Landscaping of Washtenaw County specializes in building unique and beautiful landscapes for our customers. We have a reputation in the community for being easy to work with, competitively priced and exceeding customer expectations. Our passion in building landscapes is fueled by our customers reactions when they see the final results. Our favorite part of our job, is seeing how excited people are when they get to see their new landscape and then enjoy it in a whole new way. We work closely with all our customers to install their ideas and make them come to life, while also making sure we are being as cost effective as possible. This ensures maximum value to our customers on each project.
"The company came out promptly for the estimate and were able to schedule my wook pretty quickly."
Joannie P on June 2021
5 Star Landscaping of Washtenaw County specializes in building unique and beautiful landscapes for our customers. We have a reputation in the community for being easy to work with, competitively priced and exceeding customer expectations. Our passion in building landscapes is fueled by our customers reactions when they see the final results. Our favorite part of our job, is seeing how excited people are when they get to see their new landscape and then enjoy it in a whole new way. We work closely with all our customers to install their ideas and make them come to life, while also making sure we are being as cost effective as possible. This ensures maximum value to our customers on each project.
"The company came out promptly for the estimate and were able to schedule my wook pretty quickly."
Joannie P on June 2021
DownRiver Seasonal Services is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"Did a great job. He was prompt. Great experience. Great job with clean up. I am very happy with the project."
Rebecca H on April 2025
DownRiver Seasonal Services is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"Did a great job. He was prompt. Great experience. Great job with clean up. I am very happy with the project."
Rebecca H on April 2025
Creekside Carpentry LLC is a trusted name in the construction industry, emphasizing the significance of establishing strong customer/contractor relationships. Our primary focus is on providing high-quality craftsmanship rather than prioritizing quantity. We are well-versed in working on a wide range of projects, both big and small. From constructing new houses and additions to carrying out remodeling, kitchen and bathroom renovations, deck installations, window and siding replacements, and pole barn construction, we are committed to turning our clients' dreams into reality, one job at a time. As a licensed and insured company, we provide our clients with peace of mind throughout the construction process. Our commitment to excellence and attention to detail have garnered us a significant number of repeat customer, signifying the satisfaction they have experienced when working with us. Contact us to start that project that you have always dreamed of!
"10x12 deck built and a new interior door installed leading out to new deck. Mr. Hillard was professional and takes pride in his work. We are so happy with the end result, can't wait for warm weather so we can sit on it and watch the sunsets and watch the world go by. "
Cheryl A on February 2025
Creekside Carpentry LLC is a trusted name in the construction industry, emphasizing the significance of establishing strong customer/contractor relationships. Our primary focus is on providing high-quality craftsmanship rather than prioritizing quantity. We are well-versed in working on a wide range of projects, both big and small. From constructing new houses and additions to carrying out remodeling, kitchen and bathroom renovations, deck installations, window and siding replacements, and pole barn construction, we are committed to turning our clients' dreams into reality, one job at a time. As a licensed and insured company, we provide our clients with peace of mind throughout the construction process. Our commitment to excellence and attention to detail have garnered us a significant number of repeat customer, signifying the satisfaction they have experienced when working with us. Contact us to start that project that you have always dreamed of!
"10x12 deck built and a new interior door installed leading out to new deck. Mr. Hillard was professional and takes pride in his work. We are so happy with the end result, can't wait for warm weather so we can sit on it and watch the sunsets and watch the world go by. "
Cheryl A on February 2025
A-1 Concrete Leveling Southeast Michigan is your go-to solution for all your concrete leveling and mudjacking needs in Detroit. Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch services that are backed by warranties. Contact us today for a reliable and professional solution to your concrete problems!
"Did an excellent job. Everyone I came into contact with was friendly and professional."
Rhonda M on November 2024
A-1 Concrete Leveling Southeast Michigan is your go-to solution for all your concrete leveling and mudjacking needs in Detroit. Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch services that are backed by warranties. Contact us today for a reliable and professional solution to your concrete problems!
"Did an excellent job. Everyone I came into contact with was friendly and professional."
Rhonda M on November 2024
We here at VFC do all types of flat work from Driveways, pole barn floors, garage floors, Sidewalks, Patios, and stairsteps. We also incorporate stamped and colored Patios. We listen to what your needs are and help you create that image you have come to life!
"I recently hired VFC to pour a concrete pad, and they did an outstanding job. The project was completed on time and within budget, with excellent craftsmanship. The finish is smooth and precise, and their communication throughout was top-notch. The crew was professional, punctual, and left the area spotless. I highly recommend VFC for any concrete work. They exceeded my expectations in every way."
Levi K on June 2024
We here at VFC do all types of flat work from Driveways, pole barn floors, garage floors, Sidewalks, Patios, and stairsteps. We also incorporate stamped and colored Patios. We listen to what your needs are and help you create that image you have come to life!
"I recently hired VFC to pour a concrete pad, and they did an outstanding job. The project was completed on time and within budget, with excellent craftsmanship. The finish is smooth and precise, and their communication throughout was top-notch. The crew was professional, punctual, and left the area spotless. I highly recommend VFC for any concrete work. They exceeded my expectations in every way."
Levi K on June 2024
we specificalize in concrete driveways walkways sidewalks patios repairs and all, we also do painting roofing and lawn work, pavers we guarantee are work and if you don’t like it we will come back no charge and replace, until customer is happy, Here at G Diaz Construction Inc we make your home a place everyone feels welcomed and warm
"It went really good. The guys were really friendly and nice and even did a little extra and were very respectful. They did a wonderful job."
Yvonna D on May 2025
we specificalize in concrete driveways walkways sidewalks patios repairs and all, we also do painting roofing and lawn work, pavers we guarantee are work and if you don’t like it we will come back no charge and replace, until customer is happy, Here at G Diaz Construction Inc we make your home a place everyone feels welcomed and warm
"It went really good. The guys were really friendly and nice and even did a little extra and were very respectful. They did a wonderful job."
Yvonna D on May 2025
Here at Real Deal Remodeling we are a locally owned and operated company, that values honesty, integrity, and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a wide variety of quality home improvement services. You will find us to be competitively priced with close attention to the details of each and every project that we are involved with. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your personal satisfaction.
"This company is a joke and you have to be crazy to hire them. The owner, Lance, is a great sales man but will not abide by his contract or his word. I have been hounding Lance for 15 months to fix a drain he put in my driveway. I keep getting empty promises that it will be taken care of. The drain has never worked and my garage floods with large rains. This is just the tip of the iceberg. I had one of his crew tell me shortly after the project that Lance took shortcuts. Cracks appeared in the driveway less than six months after completion. And, multiple areas of the driveway shift up and down when driven over. I currently am seeking legal remedies. If you want to throw your money in the trash, Real Deal Remodeling is for you."
Edward W on August 2023
Here at Real Deal Remodeling we are a locally owned and operated company, that values honesty, integrity, and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a wide variety of quality home improvement services. You will find us to be competitively priced with close attention to the details of each and every project that we are involved with. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your personal satisfaction.
"This company is a joke and you have to be crazy to hire them. The owner, Lance, is a great sales man but will not abide by his contract or his word. I have been hounding Lance for 15 months to fix a drain he put in my driveway. I keep getting empty promises that it will be taken care of. The drain has never worked and my garage floods with large rains. This is just the tip of the iceberg. I had one of his crew tell me shortly after the project that Lance took shortcuts. Cracks appeared in the driveway less than six months after completion. And, multiple areas of the driveway shift up and down when driven over. I currently am seeking legal remedies. If you want to throw your money in the trash, Real Deal Remodeling is for you."
Edward W on August 2023
Most railroad tie retaining walls have a life span of 20 to 30 years, though you may need to replace your wall sooner if it's repeatedly exposed to heavy rain, runoff, and excess moisture. The creosote treatment in traditional railroad ties helps resist rot and insects, but proper drainage is essential for maximizing longevity. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of minor issues can help extend your wall's useful life.
Creosote-treated railroad ties can pose health risks if used near edible plants or children's play areas. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that creosote may be harmful to humans and wildlife. Many localities restrict or prohibit creosote-treated wood in residential settings. For garden applications, consider alternative materials like recycled plastic composite ties or lumber treated with more garden-friendly preservatives.
The ideal drainage solution depends on your specific site conditions and wall height. For most residential applications, a combination of gravel backfill and perforated drain pipe works effectively.
A complete drainage system costs between $2,100 and $6,500, though basic solutions start at $500. Proper drainage prevents water pressure buildup behind your wall, significantly reducing the risk of failure and extending its useful life.
For walls under four feet tall on relatively flat terrain, you can proceed without engineering services. However, walls exceeding four feet, those on steep slopes, or projects with unusual soil conditions require professional engineering input.
A structural engineer can design appropriate footings and reinforcement to ensure your wall safely handles the lateral soil pressure it will face.
Railroad tie retaining walls start at $15 to $25 per square foot, with most projects averaging $25 to $30 per square foot, depending on complexity and site prep. This makes them more affordable than natural stone or concrete block walls initially.
While vinyl options may cost less upfront ($10 to $15 per square foot), railroad ties offer superior aesthetics and strength. Though they require more maintenance than masonry options, their lower initial cost makes them attractive for many homeowners.