DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills. However, landscaping requires more specialized knowledge. Full-scale landscaping requires heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as irrigation systems or fire pits, need machinery and construction experience as well.
You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants. However, if you lack the needed lawn expertise or if you want to do a larger yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a landscaper.
Professional landscape architects and designers have the skill set to elevate your outdoor space and the expertise to develop a long-term maintenance plan. Your local professional can explain the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents you from making costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Newark Landscaping Company
Selecting the right landscaper depends on several factors, such as your service needs, your budget, and the company’s experience. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
It’s important to assess your landscaping needs before selecting a company. If you’re looking for assistance with yard health and maintenance, look for one that offers lawn care services. These services can include mulching, fertilizing, pruning, mowing, and controlling weeds. Some companies provide additional pest management services and tree removal.
You want a full-service landscaping company if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, or retaining walls. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in certain areas, such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Companies should have the appropriate licenses 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
We recommend using third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to gauge a provider's customer experience and overall reputation. Stay away from companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of delayed projects, unreliable customer service, or poor project results. Try to choose a provider with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Ask for a portfolio of your landscaping company's previous work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are proud to share projects and designs with potential customers, including before and after pictures. Ask to see photos of past projects that are similar to your own design ideas to get an idea of how yours will look.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaper. These practices include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Landscaping contractors should implement plant life native to your area—such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry—for best results. Any work on your property shouldn't affect your existing vegetation. The company should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
Request quotes from multiple companies to learn about pricing and services. Most companies provide free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and review project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining your project costs, including labor and materials. You can use competing quotes to help negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in Newark
Generally, landscaping costs $34–$51 per hour in Newark. These costs vary based on project type and size. Less complicated work, such as gardening or mowing, will be less expensive than a larger project like resodding. Depending on the size of your yard, the company may charge by the acre. Bigger projects require more labor, increasing the project total. 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 | $13,650 - $18,199 |
Landscaping Design | $2,561 - $3,415 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $452 - $2,711 |
Landscaping Mulch | $27 - $136 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $90 - $1,807 |
Planting Trees | $237 - $395 |
Sodding | $45 - $54 |
Swimming Pool | $34,336 - $90,358 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Newark
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
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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