DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You might have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping requires advanced skills, heavy equipment, and intense labor. Complicated landscaping projects, such as adding a fire pit or irrigation system, also require machinery and construction experience.
You can complete some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. You should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a complete yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you don't have the needed expertise.
Professional landscape architects and designers have the proper skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. They help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades and develop long-term landscape maintenance plans. Contractors that offer lawn care services can help you improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making expensive mistakes doing it on your own.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Avondale Landscaping Company
Choosing the right landscaper comes down to certain factors, such as your service needs, your budget, and the company’s experience. Consider the following factors when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Have an idea of what services you need before picking a provider. Some providers offer lawn care services focused on yard health and maintenance. These services may include mulching, fertilizing, controlling weeds, pruning, and mowing. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
You'll need a full-service landscaping company if you're planning a full revamp of your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. They can also help install retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, fire pits, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscaping contractors are trained and certified in various areas, such as lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the Avondale city government. It might also employ the following certified professionals:
- Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
- Licensed arborists
- Licensed horticulture specialists
- Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects
Reputation and Reviews
Look for a contractor with good customer reviews. You can check third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to verify that a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including reviews that frequently mention delayed projects, poor project results, or unreliable customer service.
Work Portfolio
Many landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share photos of previous projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, preferably ones similar to the ideas you have for your yard. Often, companies have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.
Sustainability Practices
Ask your landscaper about their sustainability practices, such as waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider should be able to explain its own sustainability practices and offer recommendations for sustainable maintenance, including how to reduce cost, water consumption, and waste. When planting vegetation, the company should choose plants native to your area, such as desert marigold, blackfoot daisy, and desert sand verbena. Any work they complete shouldn't affect your existing vegetation.
Cost
Request multiple quotes from different to compare pricing and services. Most landscapers offer free consultations during which they'll review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and go over project ideas. A detailed quote will outline project costs such as materials and labor. You can use a quote to compare companies and sometimes negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in Avondale
Generally, landscaping costs $26–$39 per hour in Avondale. These prices vary based on project type and size. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as mowing or gardening, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Depending on your yard size, the company may charge by the acre. Larger or more complex projects require more labor, increasing the project total. Pricing will also vary depending on your selected materials. The table below shows the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,189 - $17,585 |
Landscaping Design | $1,962 - $2,616 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $416 - $2,498 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $125 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $83 - $1,665 |
Planting Trees | $218 - $364 |
Sodding | $42 - $50 |
Swimming Pool | $31,636 - $83,252 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Lawn Care Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Avondale
What are warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How can I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.