DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping needs more advanced skills. Completing a full-scale landscaping project requires heavy equipment and intense labor. Adding more complex elements, such as an irrigation system or fire pit, requires construction and machinery expertise.
You can do some landscaping projects on your own. 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 lack the needed expertise.
Professional landscape architects and designers have the skill set to elevate your outdoor space and the knowledge to develop a long-term maintenance plan. A local professional can identify the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents costly DIY mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Montebello Landscaping Company
Reputation and experience are important considerations for choosing a landscaper, but you also want to ensure that your provider offers the services you need within your budget. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Consider your lawn's needs when choosing a landscaping company. Some companies offer lawn care services—including fertilizing, pruning, mulching, mowing, and controlling weeds—to help with yard health and maintenance. These companies often also provide pest control and tree clearing services.
Choose a full-service landscaping company 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 adding hardscapes, gardening, and landscaping rock projects. They may also help install retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, fire pits, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Your landscaping company should possess the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. Most contractors also have advanced training and certification in areas such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Your provider may have the following certified members on staff:
- Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
- Licensed arborists
- Licensed horticulture specialists
- Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects
Reputation and Reviews
We recommend using third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to gauge a company's reputation and customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, poor project results, or delayed projects. Try to find a company with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Many landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share photos of previously completed projects with potential customers. Request to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, 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 practices might include water conservation, waste management, and eco-friendly material options, and they're an important consideration when choosing a landscaper. Landscaping work 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
Request quotes from multiple companies to compare pricing and services. Most landscapers offer free consultations where they'll review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project ideas. Your detailed quote will outline project costs such as materials and labor. You can use this quote to compare your options and sometimes negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in Montebello
Landscaping in Montebello generally costs between $28 and $42 per hour. These prices depend on factors such as project type and size. Bigger projects, such as resodding, will cost more than simple lawn tasks like mowing or gardening. Depending on your yard size, your provider may charge by the acre. Large-scale projects require more labor, increasing the price. Pricing will also depend on your selected materials. The table below shows the average cost of common landscaping projects:
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 Montebello
What are warning signs of a bad landscaper?
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How can I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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