DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Most homeowners have a basic level of lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. A large project might require heavy equipment and intense labor. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems need additional construction and machinery expertise.
You can handle some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. However, 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 skill set to elevate your outdoor space and the expertise to create a long-term maintenance plan. A professional can help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents costly DIY mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Colorado Springs Landscaping Company
Hiring the right landscaper involves finding one with the right experience that also fits your budget and service needs. Consider the following factors when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Different landscaping companies cater to different lawn needs. Some providers focus on services to help with your yard's health and maintenance, such as controlling weeds, mowing, fertilizing, mulching, and pruning. These providers also often offer pest control and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaping company is your best option if you're planning to revamp your whole yard or install architectural elements such as retaining walls, fire pits, and sprinkler or irrigation systems. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. Some also offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in certain areas, such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Companies should have the appropriate licenses from the Colorado Springs city government. Your provider 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
Seek out companies with positive customer reviews and strong reputations. Check third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Explore both positive and negative reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Stay away from companies with mostly negative reviews and frequent mentions of delayed projects, unreliable customer service, or poor project results.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies have before and after photos of previous projects to showcase their work to potential customers. Ask to see the company's portfolio. You can specifically ask for photos of projects similar to yours, to see how yours might look and even get some inspiration.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaping company. These practices include water conservation, eco-friendly material options, and waste management. Landscaping contractors should implement native plant life—such as Colorado blue columbine, heartleaf arnica, and scarlet gilia—for best results. The work completed on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
Cost
Many providers offer free consultations. During this process, the contractor will review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and discuss project ideas. Your detailed quote will outline project costs such as 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 Colorado Springs
Landscaping in Colorado Springs generally costs between $25 and $38 per hour. These figures depend on factors such as project size and type. Bigger projects, such as resodding, will cost more than simple lawn tasks like gardening or mowing. Depending on your yard size, your provider may charge by the acre. Bigger projects require more labor, which will increase the cost. Pricing will also depend on your selected materials. The table below breaks down the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,922 - $17,230 |
Landscaping Design | $1,916 - $2,555 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $414 - $2,481 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $124 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $83 - $1,654 |
Planting Trees | $217 - $361 |
Sodding | $41 - $50 |
Swimming Pool | $31,431 - $82,713 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Colorado Springs
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 can I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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