DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Although many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, landscaping requires more advanced skills. Full-scale landscaping projects require heavy equipment and intense labor. Adding more complex elements, such as an irrigation system or fire pit, requires construction and machinery expertise.
Small landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds, can be easy projects to DIY. If you don't have basic lawn expertise or are looking for a total yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a professional.
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 Dublin Landscaping Company
You should consider factors such as your budget and service needs as well as a provider's experience when hiring a landscaping company. Keep the following factors in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Different landscaping providers cater to different lawn needs. Some companies focus on services to help with your yard's health and maintenance, such as pruning, mulching, mowing, controlling weeds, and fertilizing. These providers also often offer pest management and tree cutting services.
You'll want full-service landscaping if you plan to revamp 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 may also help install sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, fire pits, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscape contractors have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as horticulture, lawn maintenance, and outdoor design. Companies should have the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It 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
We recommend checking third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to get an idea of a company's reputation and customer experience. Stay away from companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service. Try to select a company with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies have before and after photos of previously completed projects to showcase their work to potential customers. Ask to see your provider's portfolio. You can specifically ask for photos of projects similar to yours, so you can see how your yard might look, and even get some inspiration.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaper. These include eco-friendly material options, waste management, and water conservation. Your provider should choose plant life native to your area—such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry—for best results. The work done on your property shouldn't impact existing vegetation. The company should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
Request quotes from multiple companies to compare pricing and services. Most companies offer free consultations during which they'll review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and go over project plans. A detailed quote will outline project costs such as labor and materials. You can use this quote to compare with other companies and sometimes negotiate a better deal.
Landscaping Costs in Dublin
Landscaping typically costs $31–$47 per hour in Dublin, depending on project type and size. Simple tasks, such as mowing or gardening, are less expensive than major yard work, such as resodding. Pricing will vary based on your chosen materials. For a large yard, your provider may charge by the acre. Large or complex projects necessitate more labor, which will increase the total price. The table below shows the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,530 - $18,040 |
Landscaping Design | $2,355 - $3,140 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $440 - $2,637 |
Landscaping Mulch | $26 - $132 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $88 - $1,758 |
Planting Trees | $230 - $384 |
Sodding | $44 - $53 |
Swimming Pool | $33,405 - $87,908 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Dublin
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are some benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How should I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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