DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have at least basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. A large project might require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems need additional construction and machinery expertise.
You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants. However, if you don't have basic lawn expertise or if you're planning a larger yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a landscaping contractor.
Professional landscape architects and designers have the knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and create long-term landscape maintenance plans. If they also offer lawn care services, contractors can help improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making expensive mistakes doing it on your own.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Lafayette Landscaping Company
Aim to hire a landscaper that offers the services you need within your budget. You also want to know 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 picking a company. Some companies offer lawn care services focused on yard health and maintenance. These services may include pruning, fertilizing, mowing, controlling weeds, and mulching. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaper 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 designs and upgrades, such as gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. Some also provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscape contractors have advanced training and certifications in certain areas, such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Companies should hold the appropriate licensure from the Lafayette city government. The company 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
Look for a contractor who has an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Read both positive and negative reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to get a feel for how a company treats its customers. Avoid providers that have frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results, or that have generally poor reviews.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share completed projects with potential customers. Ask the company for its portfolio of landscaping projects and designs. They may also provide before and after pictures to show off their quality work. Ask about finished landscape designs similar to your project to get a better idea of how it will look.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability is an important consideration during and after a landscaping project. Ask your provider about its best practices for waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options; you can also ask for maintenance recommendations. Landscaping companies should use native plant life (such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant) when planting new vegetation, and they shouldn't allow their work to affect your existing vegetation.
Cost
We recommend requesting quotes from multiple companies. This lets you compare services and cost and may even help you negotiate a better deal. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, talk about project plans, and make recommendations. Your detailed quote will include information about various project costs, such as labor and materials.
Landscaping Costs in Lafayette
Landscaping typically costs $20–$31 per hour in Lafayette, depending on project type and size. Simple tasks like gardening or mowing will cost less than significant yard work, such as resodding. Depending on your yard's size, the company may charge by the acre. Large-scale projects require more labor, which will increase the cost. Pricing will also vary depending on your selected materials. The table below shows the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $11,844 - $15,792 |
Landscaping Design | $1,551 - $2,068 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $392 - $2,351 |
Landscaping Mulch | $24 - $118 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $78 - $1,568 |
Planting Trees | $205 - $343 |
Sodding | $39 - $47 |
Swimming Pool | $29,784 - $78,380 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Lafayette
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are some benefits of landscaping?
Is a landscaper the same as a gardener?
What is a landscape designer?
How do I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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