DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills. However, landscaping requires more specialized knowledge. Full-scale landscaping employs heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as fire pits or irrigation systems, need construction and machinery experience as well.
You can complete some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, are easier to DIY. You should hire a professional landscaper for things like a total yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you don't have the needed expertise.
Professional landscape architects and designers have the skills to elevate your outdoor space and the knowledge to create a long-term maintenance plan. A professional can identify the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who offers lawn care services can improve your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents you from making expensive mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Redding Landscaping Company
Aim to hire a landscaper that offers the services you need within your budget. You also want to know that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Consider your landscaping needs before choosing a company. Some companies offer lawn care services—including mowing, mulching, pruning, fertilizing, and controlling weeds—to help with your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also provide pest control and tree clearing services.
You need a full-service landscaper for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, or fire pits. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.
Licensing and Experience
Landscape contractors often have advanced training and certification in areas such as lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. A company 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
Seek out companies with positive customer reviews and strong reputations. Check third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Read positive and negative reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Be wary of companies with mainly negative reviews and frequent mentions of delayed projects, poor project results, or unreliable customer service.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies have before and after photos of past 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
Ask your landscaper about their sustainability practices, such as water conservation, eco-friendly material options, and waste management. Your provider should be able to explain its own sustainability practices and give you recommendations for sustainable maintenance, like how to reduce cost, waste, and water consumption. When planting vegetation, the company should choose native area plants, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Any work they complete shouldn't impact your existing vegetation.
Cost
Homeowners should request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best services and pricing. Most companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, make 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 lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Redding
Landscaping typically costs $24–$35 per hour in Redding, depending on project type and size. Simple tasks, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than major yard work, such as resodding. Factors like the size of your yard and the materials you choose will all influence your final price. For larger yards, companies may charge by the acre. Large or complex projects need more labor, which will increase costs. The table below breaks down the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,284 - $16,379 |
Landscaping Design | $1,780 - $2,374 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $405 - $2,433 |
Landscaping Mulch | $24 - $122 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $81 - $1,622 |
Planting Trees | $212 - $354 |
Sodding | $41 - $49 |
Swimming Pool | $30,817 - $81,098 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Redding
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Is a landscaper the same as a gardener?
What is a landscape designer?
How can I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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