DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have at least basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. Large projects may require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems require additional 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 the needed lawn expertise or are looking for a total yard overhaul, consider hiring a professional.
Professional landscape designers and architects have the knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and create long-term plans for landscape maintenance. If they also offer lawn care services, contractors can help improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making expensive mistakes doing it on your own.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Redwood City Landscaping Company
Take into consideration factors such as your budget and service needs as well as a provider's experience when hiring a landscaper. Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Have an idea of what services you need before picking a provider. Some companies offer lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services might include fertilizing, mulching, controlling weeds, mowing, and pruning. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaping company is your best option if you're planning to revamp your entire yard or install architectural elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and fire pits. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. Some might also provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Companies should hold the appropriate licensure 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
Look for a contractor who has an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Check both positive and negative reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau in order to get a feel for how a company treats its customers. Avoid providers that have frequent mentions of poor project results, unreliable customer service, or delayed projects, or that have generally poor reviews.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies will have before and after photos of previous projects to demonstrate the quality of their work. Ask to see the company's portfolio. You can specifically ask to see other projects similar to yours, to see how yours might look and even get some inspiration.
Sustainability Practices
Ask your landscaper about their sustainability practices, including waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider should be able to explain its own sustainability practices and offer recommendations for sustainable maintenance, like how to reduce cost, waste, and water consumption. When planting vegetation, your landscaper should select native area plants, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Any work completed shouldn't have an impact on your existing vegetation.
Cost
Many landscapers offer free consultations, during which the contractor will review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and go over project ideas. Your detailed quote will outline project expenses like labor and materials. We recommend getting multiple quotes from different companies, which you can then use to compare rates and services and sometimes negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Redwood City
Landscaping in Redwood City generally costs between $35 and $52 per hour. These prices depend on things such as project type and size. Bigger projects like resodding will be more expensive than simple lawn tasks like gardening or mowing. Larger projects need more labor, which increases the total cost. Depending on the size of your yard, your provider might charge by the acre. The cost will also be affected by the materials you choose. The table below breaks down the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,755 - $18,340 |
Landscaping Design | $2,643 - $3,524 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $457 - $2,740 |
Landscaping Mulch | $27 - $137 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $91 - $1,827 |
Planting Trees | $239 - $399 |
Sodding | $46 - $55 |
Swimming Pool | $34,704 - $91,327 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Redwood City
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 a price with a landscaping company?
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