DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. Large projects may require heavy equipment and intense labor. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems need additional machinery and construction expertise.
Do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping is good for smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants. However, you should consider hiring a professional landscaping company if you’re doing a total yard overhaul or don’t have basic lawn expertise.
Hiring a landscape designer or architect helps prevent you from making expensive mistakes. These professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor living space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a plan for long-term maintenance.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an York Landscaping Company
Take into consideration factors such as your budget and service needs as well as a company's experience when hiring a landscaping company. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
You should assess your landscaping needs before choosing a company. If you want assistance with yard health and maintenance, find one that offers lawn care services. These services can include fertilizing, pruning, mulching, controlling weeds, and mowing. Some companies offer additional pest control services and tree removal.
Look for a full-service landscaper if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as fire pits, retaining walls, or sprinkler or irrigation systems. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including adding hardscapes, gardening, and landscaping rock projects. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.
Licensing and Experience
Landscape contractors often have advanced training and certification in areas like horticulture, lawn maintenance, and outdoor design. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the York city government. It might also 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. You can check third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Explore both positive and negative reviews for each company to gauge how it treats its customers. Be wary of companies with mainly negative customer reviews and frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies have before and after photos of past projects to demonstrate the quality of their work. Request the company'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
A landscaper's sustainability practices are essential. These include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Landscaping contractors should select plant life native to your area—such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant—for best results. Any work done on your property shouldn't affect existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
Cost
Request multiple quotes from different to compare pricing and services. Most companies offer free consultations during which they'll review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and go over project ideas. A detailed quote will outline project costs such as materials and labor. You can use a quote to compare your options and sometimes negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in York
Generally, landscaping costs $34–$51 per hour in York. These figures vary based on project type and size. 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, your provider may charge by the acre. Larger or more complex 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 different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,185 - $17,580 |
Landscaping Design | $2,580 - $3,440 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $453 - $2,717 |
Landscaping Mulch | $27 - $136 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $91 - $1,811 |
Planting Trees | $237 - $396 |
Sodding | $45 - $54 |
Swimming Pool | $34,418 - $90,573 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in York
What are warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are some benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How should I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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