DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You might have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires advanced skills, heavy equipment, and intense labor. Complicated projects, such as adding an irrigation system or fire pit, also require construction and machinery experience.
Small landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants, can be easy projects to DIY. If you don't have the needed lawn expertise or are planning a complete yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a professional.
Professional landscape designers and architects have the right skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. They help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades and develop long-term plans for landscape maintenance. Contractors that offer lawn care services can help you improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making costly mistakes doing it on your own.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Winter Garden Landscaping Company
Look for a landscaping company that offers the services you need at a reasonable price. Also ensure that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following factors in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Have an idea of what services you need before choosing a company. Some providers offer lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services may include pruning, controlling weeds, mulching, mowing, and fertilizing. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaper is your best choice if you want to revamp your whole yard or install architectural elements such as fire pits, retaining walls, and sprinkler or irrigation systems. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, such as adding hardscapes, landscaping rock projects, and gardening. Some may also offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Landscape contractors often have advanced training and certification in areas like outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. A company should hold the appropriate licensure from the Winter Garden city government. It may also 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
Try to find a contractor who has a good 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 provider treats its customers. Avoid companies that have frequent mentions of delayed projects, poor project results, or unreliable customer service, or that have generally poor reviews.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies will 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, so you can see how your yard might look, and even get some inspiration.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaping company. These include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Your provider should choose native plant life—such as trumpet honeysuckle, climbing aster, and narrowleaf sunflower—for best results. Any work 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
Request quotes from multiple companies to compare services and prices. Most landscapers offer free consultations during which they'll review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and go over project plans. Your detailed quote should outline project costs such as labor and materials. You can use this quote to compare your options and sometimes negotiate a better deal.
Landscaping Costs in Winter Garden
Generally, landscaping costs $25–$38 per hour in Winter Garden. These figures vary based on project type and size. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as mowing or gardening, will be less expensive than a larger project like resodding. Depending on the size of your yard, the company may charge by the acre. Bigger projects require more labor, increasing the price. 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 | $12,369 - $16,492 |
Landscaping Design | $1,921 - $2,561 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $414 - $2,483 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $124 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $83 - $1,655 |
Planting Trees | $217 - $362 |
Sodding | $41 - $50 |
Swimming Pool | $31,452 - $82,767 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Winter Garden
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 should I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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