DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You likely have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping requires advanced skills, heavy equipment, and intense labor. Complicated projects, such as adding a fire pit or irrigation system, also necessitate machinery and construction experience.
Small landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants, can be easy projects to DIY. If you don't have the needed lawn expertise or are looking for a complete yard overhaul, consider hiring a professional. Professional landscape architects and designers can enhance your lawn, recommend the most cost-effective upgrades, and help develop a long-term maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor living space. Contactors that also provide lawn care services can improve your lawn's health and help you avoid costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Lynn Landscaping Company
You want to find a landscaping company that offers the services you need within your budget. You also want to know that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
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Services Offered
You should know what services you need before choosing a company. Some companies provide lawn care services that focus on yard health and maintenance. These services might include controlling weeds, pruning, mulching, fertilizing, and mowing. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services. Plan to hire a full-service landscaper for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, or fire pits. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.
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Licensing and Experience
Landscapers often have advanced training and certification in areas like outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Your provider should have the appropriate licenses from the Lynn city government. It may also have 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
Look for a contractor with good customer reviews. You can check third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to ensure a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Try to avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including reviews that frequently mention poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service.
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Work Portfolio
Many landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share photos of previous projects with potential customers. Request to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, preferably 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 is important to consider during and after a landscaping project. Ask your landscaper about its best practices for waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation; you can also ask for maintenance recommendations. Landscapers should use native plants (such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower) when planting new vegetation, and they shouldn't let their work affect your existing vegetation.
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Cost
We recommend requesting multiple quotes from different companies. This allows you to compare rates and services and can even help you negotiate a better deal. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote should include information about various project expenses, such as materials and labor.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Lynn
What are warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How do I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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