DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have at least basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires more advanced skills. A large project might require heavy equipment and intense labor. Complicated projects such as irrigation systems and fire pits need additional machinery and construction expertise.
You can do some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. You should hire a professional landscaper for things like a total yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you lack the needed expertise.
Hiring a landscape architect or designer helps you avoid expensive mistakes. These professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a plan for long-term maintenance.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Boise City Landscaping Company
Take into consideration factors such as your services needs and budget as well as a company's experience when selecting a landscaping company. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Different landscaping companies serve different lawn needs. Some providers focus on services to help with the health and maintenance of your yard, such as mulching, mowing, pruning, fertilizing, and controlling weeds. These companies often also provide pest control and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaping company is the way to go if you want 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 provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscaping contractors are trained and certified in areas like horticulture, lawn maintenance, and outdoor design. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the Idaho State Department of Agriculture. 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
You want a provider with an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Check both negative and positive 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 unreliable customer service, poor project results, or delayed projects, or that have overall poor reviews.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies have before and after photos of previous projects to demonstrate the quality of their work. Request your provider's portfolio. You can specifically ask to see other projects similar to yours, so you can see how your yard might look, and even get some inspiration.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices can include water conservation, eco-friendly material options, and waste management, and they're an important consideration when choosing a landscaper. Landscaping work done on your property shouldn't impact your current vegetation. Additionally, your landscaper should choose native plants, such as Colorado blue columbine, heartleaf arnica, and scarlet gilia. Ask about sustainability practices for projects like yours, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
Cost
You should request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best pricing and services. Most companies conduct free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and review project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining your project costs, including materials and labor. You may wish to use competing quotes to negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Boise City
Landscaping typically costs $21–$31 per hour in Boise City, depending on project size and type. Simple tasks, such as mowing or gardening, are less expensive than major yard work, such as resodding. Depending on your yard size, the company may charge by the acre. Bigger projects require more labor, which will increase the cost. Pricing will also vary depending on your selected materials. The table below breaks down the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $11,946 - $15,928 |
Landscaping Design | $1,589 - $2,119 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $394 - $2,365 |
Landscaping Mulch | $24 - $118 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $79 - $1,577 |
Planting Trees | $207 - $345 |
Sodding | $39 - $47 |
Swimming Pool | $29,958 - $78,837 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Boise City
What are warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How do I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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