DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Most homeowners have a basic level of 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 machinery and construction expertise.
You can complete some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, 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 costly mistakes. These professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor living space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help develop a long-term maintenance plan.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Lowell Landscaping Company
You should consider factors such as your budget and service needs as well as a company's experience when choosing a landscaper. Keep the following factors in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Different landscaping providers cater to different lawn needs. Some providers focus on services to help with yard health and maintenance, such as fertilizing, pruning, mulching, controlling weeds, and mowing. These companies often also provide pest control and tree removal services.
Look for a full-service landscaping company 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 designs and upgrades, including landscaping rock projects, adding hardscapes, and gardening. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in certain areas, such as lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Companies should have the appropriate licenses from the Lowell city government. Your provider may have 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 companies with excellent reputations and positive customer experiences. 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 reviews and frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results.
Work Portfolio
Ask to see a portfolio of your landscaping company's past work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share designs and projects with potential customers, including before and after pictures. Ask for photos of past projects that are similar to your design ideas so that you can get an idea of how yours will look.
Sustainability Practices
Ask your landscaping company about its sustainability practices, including eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Your provider should be able to explain its own sustainability practices and offer recommendations for sustainable maintenance, such as how to reduce cost, water consumption, and waste. When planting vegetation, your landscaper should select native area plants, such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower. Any work they complete shouldn't have an impact on your existing vegetation.
Cost
Request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best pricing and services. Most companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining your project costs, including materials and labor. You can use competing quotes to help negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in Lowell
In Lowell, you can expect to pay around $35–$53 for landscaping, depending on project size and type. Significant yard work such as resodding will cost more than simpler tasks such as mowing and gardening. Factors like materials and the size of your yard will impact your final price. For larger yards, companies might charge by the acre. Bigger projects will require more labor, which will increase costs. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,537 - $18,049 |
Landscaping Design | $2,686 - $3,582 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $459 - $2,755 |
Landscaping Mulch | $28 - $138 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $92 - $1,837 |
Planting Trees | $241 - $401 |
Sodding | $46 - $55 |
Swimming Pool | $34,899 - $91,838 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Lowell
What are warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Is a landscaper the same as a gardener?
What is a landscape designer?
How should I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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