DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You probably have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires advanced skills, intense labor, and heavy equipment. More complicated projects, such as adding a fire pit or irrigation system, also necessitate machinery and construction experience.
Do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping is good for smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants. However, you should hire a professional landscaping contractor if you’re completing a yard overhaul or don’t have basic lawn expertise.
Professional landscape architects and designers have the knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and create 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 West Sacramento Landscaping Company
Hiring the right landscaper involves finding one with good experience that also fits your budget and service needs. Consider the following factors when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
It’s important to assess your landscaping needs before choosing a company. If you need assistance with yard health and maintenance, look for one that offers lawn care services. These services might include fertilizing, pruning, controlling weeds, mowing, and mulching. Some companies offer additional pest control services and tree removal.
Choose full-service landscaping if you plan to revamp your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. Full-service companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. They may also help install fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and other architectural elements. Some offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscape contractors have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Companies should hold the appropriate licensure from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It may 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
We recommend checking third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to gauge a company's reputation and customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of delayed projects, poor project results, or unreliable customer service. Try to choose a company with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Ask for a portfolio of your landscaping company's previous work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share designs and projects with potential customers, including before and after pictures. You can ask for photos of past projects that are similar to your own design ideas to get a picture of how yours will look.
Sustainability Practices
A landscaper's sustainability practices are essential. These include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation. Landscaping contractors should choose native plant life—such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry—for best results. The work on your property shouldn't affect your existing vegetation. The company should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
Many landscapers offer free consultations, during which the contractor will review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project plans. Your detailed quote will outline project expenses like labor and materials. We recommend getting quotes from multiple companies, as you can use these to compare rates and services and sometimes negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in West Sacramento
Landscaping in West Sacramento generally costs between $27 and $40 per hour. These prices depend on factors such as project size and type. Bigger projects like resodding will be more expensive than simple lawn tasks like gardening or mowing. Pricing will vary based on your chosen materials. For a bigger yard, companies might charge by the acre. Larger projects necessitate more labor, which will increase the total cost. The table below shows the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,663 - $16,884 |
Landscaping Design | $2,019 - $2,692 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $420 - $2,518 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $126 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $84 - $1,678 |
Planting Trees | $220 - $367 |
Sodding | $42 - $50 |
Swimming Pool | $31,891 - $83,925 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in West Sacramento
What are 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 do I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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