DIY Options vs. Professional Services
While many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills, landscaping requires more specialized knowledge. Full-scale landscaping requires heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as fire pits or irrigation systems, need construction and machinery experience as well.
You can do some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. You should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a complete yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you lack the needed expertise.
Professional landscape designers and architects have the skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. They help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades and develop long-term landscape maintenance plans. If they also offer lawn care services, contractors can help improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making expensive mistakes attempting it yourself.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an North Highlands Landscaping Company
Hiring the right landscaping company involves finding one with good experience that also fits your service needs and budget. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
You should know what services you need before choosing a provider. Some companies provide lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services might include controlling weeds, mulching, fertilizing, mowing, and pruning. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
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 retaining walls, fire pits, or sprinkler or irrigation systems. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscaping contractors are trained and certified in areas like horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Your provider should have the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It may also employ the following certified professionals:
- Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
- Licensed arborists
- Licensed horticulture specialists
- Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects
Reputation and Reviews
Try to find a contractor who has an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Check both negative and positive reviews on third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau in order to get a feel for how a company treats its customers. You want to avoid providers that have frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service, or that have overall poor reviews.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies will have before and after photos of previously completed projects to demonstrate the quality of their work. 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 might include water conservation, waste management, and eco-friendly material options, and they're an important consideration when choosing a landscaping company. 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, water consumption, and waste.
Cost
Homeowners should request quotes from multiple companies to learn about pricing and services. Most companies conduct free consultations to review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and go over project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including materials and labor. You may wish to use competing quotes to help negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in North Highlands
Generally, landscaping costs $33–$50 per hour in North Highlands. These figures 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. Pricing can depend on your chosen materials. For a bigger yard, companies might charge by the acre. Large or complex projects necessitate more labor, which will increase the total price. Here's the average cost of different landscaping services:
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 North Highlands
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Is a landscaper the same as a gardener?
What is a landscape designer?
How should I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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