DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Although many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. Completing a full-scale landscaping project requires heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as fire put or irrigation systems, require construction and machinery expertise.
You can do some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, are easier to DIY. However, you should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a total yard overhaul, or smaller projects for which you don't have the needed expertise.
Hiring a landscape architect or designer helps prevent you from making expensive mistakes. Professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help develop a long-term maintenance plan.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Brea Landscaping Company
You should consider factors such as your budget and service needs as well as a provider's experience when selecting a landscaping company. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
You should know what services you need before choosing a company. Some companies provide lawn care services that focus on yard health and maintenance. These services can include fertilizing, mowing, mulching, controlling weeds, and pruning. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
You should hire a full-service landscaping company if you're revamping your entire yard or adding new elements, such as a fire pit. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. They can also help install sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, fire pits, and other architectural elements. Some also offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in certain areas, such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Companies should hold the appropriate licensure from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. The company may employ the following certified staff members:
- Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
- Licensed arborists
- Licensed horticulture specialists
- Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects
Reputation and Reviews
Try to find a contractor who has an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Check both positive and negative reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau in order to get a feel for how a provider treats its customers. Avoid providers that have frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, poor project results, or delayed projects, or that have overall poor reviews.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share their completed projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping projects and designs. They might also have before and after pictures to show off their quality work. Ask about finished landscape designs similar to your planned project to get a better idea of how it will look.
Sustainability Practices
A landscaping company's sustainability practices are essential. These practices include water conservation, eco-friendly material options, and waste management. Your provider should choose plant life native to your area—such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry—for best results. Any work completed on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. The company should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
Cost
Request multiple quotes from different to compare services and prices. Most landscapers offer free consultations during which they'll review your outdoor space, provide recommendations, and discuss project ideas. A detailed quote will outline project costs such as labor and materials. You can use a quote to compare with other companies and sometimes negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in Brea
Landscaping in Brea generally costs between $28 and $41 per hour. These figures depend on factors such as project type and size. Bigger projects like resodding will be more expensive than simple lawn tasks like mowing or gardening. Factors such as materials and the size of your yard will impact your final cost. For larger yards, a provider might charge by the acre. Large-scale projects need more labor, which will increase costs. Here's the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,131 - $17,508 |
Landscaping Design | $2,094 - $2,791 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $424 - $2,544 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $127 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $85 - $1,696 |
Planting Trees | $222 - $371 |
Sodding | $42 - $51 |
Swimming Pool | $32,229 - $84,813 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Brea
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?
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