DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills. However, more specialized knowledge is required for landscaping. Full-scale landscaping requires heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as fire pits or irrigation systems, need construction and machinery experience as well.
You can complete some landscaping projects yourself. 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 don't have the needed expertise. Hiring a landscape architect or designer helps prevent you from making costly mistakes. These professionals have the skills and know-how to elevate your outdoor space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term maintenance plan.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Topeka Landscaping Company
Reputation and experience are important considerations for choosing a landscaper, but it's also important that the provider offers the services you need within your budget. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
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Services Offered
Assess your landscaping needs before selecting a provider. If you’re looking for assistance with yard health and maintenance, look for one that offers lawn care services. These services might include mulching, mowing, pruning, fertilizing, and controlling weeds. Some companies offer additional pest control and tree removal services. Look for full-service landscaping if you plan to revamp your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. Full-service companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. They can also help install retaining walls, fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements. Some offer lawn maintenance services.
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Licensing and Experience
Landscape contractors often have advanced training and certification in areas such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Your provider should have the appropriate licenses from the Topeka 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
We suggest using third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to gauge a provider's customer experience and overall reputation. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of poor project results, unreliable customer service, or delayed projects. Try to select a provider with positive customer ratings.
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Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share their completed projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping designs and projects. They might also have before and after pictures to show off their quality work. Request finished landscape designs similar to your planned project to get a better idea of how it will look.
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Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices are essential for any landscaping company. These practices 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. The work on your property shouldn't affect your existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
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Cost
Request multiple quotes from different to compare services and prices. Most providers offer free consultations during which they'll review your outdoor space, provide recommendations, and go over project plans. Your detailed quote will outline project costs such as materials and labor. You can use this quote to compare companies and sometimes negotiate a better deal.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Topeka
What are some 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 can I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.