DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Most homeowners have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. A large project might require heavy equipment and intense labor. Complicated projects such as irrigation systems and fire pits need additional construction and machinery expertise.
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 landscaper if you’re doing a total yard overhaul or don’t have basic lawn expertise.
Professional landscape architects and designers have the proper knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and develop long-term landscape maintenance plans. Contractors that offer lawn care services can help you improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making expensive mistakes doing it on your own.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Rochester Hills Landscaping Company
You want to find 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 considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Consider your lawn's needs when choosing a landscaping company. Some providers offer lawn care services—including mulching, mowing, pruning, controlling weeds, and fertilizing—to improve your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also offer pest control and tree clearing services.
Choose full-service landscaping if you're planning a full revamp of your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. They can also help install fire pits, retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Your landscaping company should possess the appropriate licenses from the Rochester Hills city government. Most contractors also have advanced training and certification in areas such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Your provider may have the following certified members on staff:
- 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 gets good reviews from customers. You can check third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to verify that a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including reviews that frequently mention poor project results, unreliable customer service, or delayed projects.
Work Portfolio
Request to see a portfolio of your landscaping contractor's past work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are proud to share designs and projects with potential customers, including before and after pictures. Ask for photos of past projects that are similar to your own design ideas so that you can get a picture of how yours will look.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices can include water conservation, waste management, and eco-friendly material options, and they're an important consideration when hiring a landscaper. Landscaping work on your property shouldn't impact your current vegetation. Additionally, your contractor should choose native plants, such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant. Ask about sustainability practices for your project, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
Cost
Homeowners should request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best pricing and services. Most companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and review project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including labor and materials. You can use competing quotes to negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Rochester Hills
Landscaping in Rochester Hills generally costs between $30 and $45 per hour. These prices depend on factors such as project size and type. Bigger projects like resodding will cost more than simple lawn tasks like mowing or gardening. Pricing will vary based on your chosen materials. For a larger yard, your provider may charge by the acre. Larger projects require more labor, which will increase the total cost. The table below shows the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,236 - $17,649 |
Landscaping Design | $2,278 - $3,037 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $435 - $2,610 |
Landscaping Mulch | $26 - $130 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $87 - $1,740 |
Planting Trees | $228 - $380 |
Sodding | $43 - $52 |
Swimming Pool | $33,057 - $86,993 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Rochester Hills
What are warning signs of a bad landscaper?
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What is a landscape designer?
How do I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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