DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You probably have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping requires advanced skills, intense labor, and heavy equipment. More complicated landscaping projects, such as adding a fire pit or irrigation system, also necessitate construction and machinery experience.
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 lack basic lawn expertise. Professional landscape designers and architects can not only enhance your lawn but can also recommend cost-effective upgrades and help develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor living space. Contactors that offer lawn care services can improve the health of your lawn and help you avoid costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Overland Park Landscaping Company
Hiring the right landscaper depends on several factors, such as your service needs, your budget, and the company’s experience. Consider the following factors when shopping for landscaping contractors.
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Services Offered
Have an idea of what services you need before selecting a company. Some providers offer lawn care services that focus on yard health and maintenance. These services can include pruning, mulching, mowing, controlling weeds, and fertilizing. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services. You want a full-service landscaping company if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as retaining walls, fire pits, or sprinkler or irrigation systems. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.
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Licensing and Experience
Landscapers often have advanced training and certification in areas such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the Overland Park 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
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Reputation and Reviews
You want a provider with an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Read both positive and negative reviews on third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau in order to get a feel for how a provider treats its customers. You want to avoid providers that have frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, poor project results, or delayed projects, or that have generally poor reviews.
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Work Portfolio
Many landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share photos of previously completed projects with potential customers. Request to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, ideally ones similar to the ideas you have for your yard. Companies often have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.
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Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices can include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management, and they're an important consideration when choosing a landscaping company. Landscaping work shouldn't impact your current vegetation. Additionally, your landscaper should choose native plants, such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant. Ask your landscaper about sustainability practices for projects like yours, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
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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, discuss project plans, and make recommendations. Your detailed quote includes information about various project costs, such as labor and materials.
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