DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You may have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires advanced skills, intense labor, and heavy equipment. More complicated landscaping projects, such as adding an irrigation system or fire pit, also require construction and machinery experience.
Small landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds, can be easy projects to DIY. If you don't have basic lawn expertise or are planning a total yard overhaul, consider hiring a professional.
Professional landscape architects and designers have the skill set to elevate your outdoor space and the expertise to create a long-term maintenance plan. A 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 Vacaville Landscaping Company
Take into consideration factors such as your services needs and budget as well as a company's experience when hiring a landscaper. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
You should know what services you need before picking a provider. Some companies provide lawn care services focused on yard health and maintenance. These services might include fertilizing, pruning, controlling weeds, mowing, and mulching. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaper is the best choice if you want 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 designs and upgrades, such as landscaping rock projects, adding hardscapes, and gardening. Some might also provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers are trained and certified in areas like lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Your provider should have the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It might 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
Make sure you choose a contractor with good customer reviews. You can look at third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to ensure a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Try to avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including ones that frequently mention poor project results, unreliable customer service, or delayed projects.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance contractors are happy to share completed projects with potential customers. Ask the company for its portfolio of landscaping projects and designs. They may also provide before and after pictures to show off their quality work. Request completed landscape designs similar to your planned project to get a better idea of how it will look.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaping company. These practices include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation. Landscaping contractors should choose plant life native to your area—such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry—for best results. Any work done on your property shouldn't affect your existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
We recommend requesting quotes from multiple companies. This allows you to compare rates and services and might even help you negotiate a better deal. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and make recommendations. Your detailed quote should include information about various project expenses, such as labor and materials.
Landscaping Costs in Vacaville
In Vacaville, you can expect to spend approximately $33–$49 for landscaping, depending on project size and type. Significant yard work such as resodding will cost more than easier tasks like mowing and gardening. Larger projects need more labor, which increases the total cost. Depending on your yard's size, the company might charge by the acre. The cost will also be affected by the materials you choose. The table below shows the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,991 - $17,321 |
Landscaping Design | $2,471 - $3,294 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $446 - $2,678 |
Landscaping Mulch | $27 - $134 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $89 - $1,786 |
Planting Trees | $234 - $390 |
Sodding | $45 - $54 |
Swimming Pool | $33,927 - $89,281 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Lawn Care Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Vacaville
What are warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How should I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.