DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You likely have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires advanced skills, intense labor, and heavy equipment. Complicated landscaping projects, such as adding a fire pit or irrigation system, also require machinery and construction experience.
Small landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants, can be easy projects to DIY. If you don't have the needed lawn expertise or are planning a total yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a professional.
Professional landscape architects and designers can not only enhance your lawn but can also recommend cost-effective upgrades and help you develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and expertise to elevate your outdoor space. Contactors that also provide lawn care services can improve the health of your lawn and prevent you from making costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Carmichael Landscaping Company
Choosing the right landscaping company involves finding one with the right experience that also fits your budget and service needs. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Have an idea of what services you need before selecting a company. Some companies provide lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services can include fertilizing, pruning, mowing, controlling weeds, 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 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 might also offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Landscape contractors often have advanced training and certification in areas like horticulture, lawn maintenance, and outdoor design. Your provider should have the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It might also 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
You want a provider with a good reputation and positive customer reviews. You can read both negative and positive reviews on third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to get a feel for how a provider treats its customers. You want to 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 have before and after photos of past projects to showcase their work to potential customers. Request your provider's portfolio. You can specifically ask to see other projects similar to yours, to see how yours might look and even get some inspiration.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices may include water conservation, waste management, and eco-friendly material options, and they're an important consideration when selecting a landscaper. Landscaping work done on your property shouldn't impact your current vegetation. Additionally, your contractor should choose native plants, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Ask your landscaper about sustainability practices for projects like yours, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
Many companies offer free consultations, during which the contractor will review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project plans. Your detailed quote will outline project expenses like labor and materials. We recommend getting multiple quotes from different companies, as you can use these to compare rates and services and sometimes negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Carmichael
In Carmichael, you should expect to spend approximately $33–$50 for landscaping, depending on project type and size. Significant yard work like resodding will cost more than more straightforward tasks like gardening and mowing. Depending on your yard size, your provider may charge by the acre. Large-scale projects require more labor, increasing the price. Pricing will also vary depending on your selected materials. The table below shows the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,120 - $17,494 |
Landscaping Design | $2,527 - $3,370 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $450 - $2,699 |
Landscaping Mulch | $27 - $135 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $90 - $1,799 |
Planting Trees | $236 - $393 |
Sodding | $45 - $54 |
Swimming Pool | $34,183 - $89,954 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Carmichael
What are some 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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