DIY Options vs. Professional Services
While many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills, more specialized knowledge is required for landscaping. Full-scale landscaping employs heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as fire pits or irrigation systems, need machinery and construction experience as well.
You can do some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, are easier to DIY. You should hire a professional landscaper for things like a total yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you lack the needed expertise.
Professional landscape architects and designers have the right skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. They help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades and create long-term landscape maintenance plans. Contractors that offer lawn care services can help you improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making costly mistakes doing it on your own.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Surprise Landscaping Company
Reputation and experience are important considerations when hiring a landscaper, but it's also important that the provider offers the services you need at a reasonable price. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Have an idea of what services you need before selecting a provider. Some providers offer lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services can include fertilizing, pruning, controlling weeds, mowing, and mulching. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaping company is the best choice if you want to revamp your whole yard or install architectural elements such as retaining walls, fire pits, and sprinkler or irrigation systems. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, such as landscaping rock projects, adding hardscapes, and gardening. Some also offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscaping contractors are trained and certified in various areas, such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Your provider should have the appropriate licenses from the Surprise city government. It may 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
We recommend checking third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to get an idea of a company's customer experience and overall reputation. Stay away from companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service. Try to choose a provider with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Ask for a portfolio of your landscaping contractor's past work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share designs and projects with potential customers, including before and after photos. Ask to see photos of past projects that are similar to your own design ideas so that you can get an idea of how yours will look.
Sustainability Practices
A landscaping company's sustainability practices are essential. These practices include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation. Landscaping contractors should select plant life native to your area—such as desert marigold, blackfoot daisy, and desert sand verbena—for best results. The work completed on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
You should request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best pricing and services. Most companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and go over project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including labor and materials. You can use competing quotes to negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in Surprise
Landscaping typically costs $23–$35 per hour in Surprise, depending on project size and type. Simple tasks, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than major yard work, such as resodding. Bigger projects need more labor, which will increase the final cost. Depending on your yard's size, your provider might charge by the acre. The price will also be affected by the materials you choose. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,055 - $16,074 |
Landscaping Design | $1,776 - $2,367 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $405 - $2,431 |
Landscaping Mulch | $24 - $122 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $81 - $1,621 |
Planting Trees | $212 - $354 |
Sodding | $41 - $49 |
Swimming Pool | $30,797 - $81,044 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Surprise
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Is a landscaper the same as a gardener?
What is a landscape designer?
How should I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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