DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. Large projects may require heavy equipment and intense labor. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems require additional machinery and construction expertise.
You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds. However, if you don't have basic lawn expertise or if you want to do a larger yard overhaul, consider hiring a landscaping contractor.
Professional landscape architects and designers can enhance your lawn, recommend the most cost-effective upgrades, and help develop a long-term maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor living space. Contactors that also provide lawn care services can improve your lawn's health and prevent you from making costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Burbank Landscaping Company
Experience and reputation are important considerations for choosing a landscaper, but you also want to ensure that the provider offers the services you need within your budget. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Have an idea of what services you need before choosing a provider. Some companies provide lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services may include mowing, fertilizing, pruning, mulching, and controlling weeds. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaper is your best choice if you're planning to revamp your whole yard or install architectural elements such as fire pits, retaining walls, and sprinkler or irrigation systems. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some may also offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Companies should hold the appropriate licensure from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. Your provider may have 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 provider with a good reputation and positive customer reviews. You can read both positive and negative reviews on third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau in order to get a feel for how a company 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
Many landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share photos of previously completed projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of landscaping projects and designs, preferably ones that are 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
Sustainability is important to consider during and after a landscaping project. Ask your provider about its best practices for waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options; you can also ask for maintenance recommendations. Landscaping companies should opt for native plant life (such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry) when planting new vegetation, and they shouldn't let their work affect your existing vegetation.
Cost
Many providers offer free consultations, during which the contractor will review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project ideas. Your detailed quote will cover project costs such as materials and labor. We recommend getting multiple quotes from different companies, which you can then use to compare services and rates and sometimes negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in Burbank
Generally, landscaping costs $28–$42 per hour in Burbank. These prices vary based on project size and type. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Bigger projects require more labor, which will increase the final cost. Depending on your yard's size, your provider may charge by the acre. The price will also be affected by the materials you choose. The table below breaks down the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,943 - $17,257 |
Landscaping Design | $2,114 - $2,819 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $425 - $2,552 |
Landscaping Mulch | $26 - $128 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $85 - $1,701 |
Planting Trees | $223 - $372 |
Sodding | $43 - $51 |
Swimming Pool | $32,321 - $85,055 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Burbank
What are warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
What are some benefits of landscaping?
Is a landscaper the same as a gardener?
What is a landscape designer?
How can I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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