DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping requires more advanced skills. Full-scale landscaping projects require intense labor and heavy equipment. Adding more complex elements, such as a fire pit or irrigation system, requires construction and machinery expertise.
You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds. However, if you lack the needed lawn expertise or if you're planning a larger yard overhaul, consider hiring a landscaper. Professional landscape architects and designers have the right skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. They help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades and create 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 Johns Creek Landscaping Company
You want to find a landscaping company that offers the services you need within your budget. Also ensure that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
-
Services Offered
Consider your lawn's needs when choosing a landscaping provider. Some providers offer lawn care services—such as pruning, mowing, fertilizing, controlling weeds, and mulching—to improve your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also provide pest control and tree removal services. You want a full-service landscaper if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, or fire pits. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.
-
Licensing and Experience
Your landscaper should have the appropriate licenses from the Johns Creek city government. Contractors often also have advanced training and certification in areas such as outdoor design, lawn maintenance, and horticulture. Your provider may have the following certified members on staff:
- 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 such as the Better Business Bureau to get an idea of a provider's customer experience and overall reputation. Stay away from companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service. Try to find a company with positive customer ratings.
-
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance contractors are happy to share finished projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping designs and projects. They might also provide before and after pictures to show the quality of their work. Request completed landscape designs similar to your project to get a better idea of how it will look.
-
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability is an important consideration both during and after landscaping work. Ask your landscaping company about its best practices for waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation; you can also ask for maintenance recommendations. Landscapers should opt for native plant life (such as trumpet honeysuckle, climbing aster, and narrowleaf sunflower) when planting new vegetation, and they shouldn't let their work affect your existing vegetation.
-
Cost
Request quotes from multiple companies to compare pricing and services. Most landscapers offer free consultations in which they'll review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and discuss project plans. A detailed quote will outline project costs such as materials and labor. You can use this quote to compare companies and sometimes negotiate a better price.
Expert Tips By
This Old House empowers homeowners with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle various projects and navigate the complexities of homeownership.
Johns Creek Lawn Care FAQ
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaper?
Warning signs of a bad landscaping company include lack of proper licensing, no formal contract, lack of professionalism, and numerous negative reviews. Homeowners should also be wary of companies with poor communication or high-pressure sales tactics. In addition, avoid companies that request full payment before completing the work.
What are some benefits of landscaping?
Landscaping offers numerous benefits, including increasing your home's value and improving its curb appeal. Landscaping can also add more natural beauty to your home and improve your quality of life with usable outdoor spaces.
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
No, landscapers are not the same as gardeners. Landscapers improve the look of your yard by incorporating plant life, outdoor features, and architectural elements to create an outdoor living space. Gardeners focus only on maintaining your plants and garden.
What is a landscape designer?
A landscape designer reviews, plans, and designs outdoor living spaces. They offer functional and aesthetic enhancements to your property. Their designs could include garden plants, hardscape elements (such as walkways), or decorative upgrades. Landscape designers often collaborate with landscape artists to construct the final design.
How do I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
Make sure you request quotes from multiple companies before negotiating. Ask for detailed quotes with a breakdown of the cost, including labor, materials, and fees. Be clear about your budget and prepared to make compromises on certain elements if necessary. If you're unable to negotiate a lower rate, ask your company if it offers payment plans to make things more affordable.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.