DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping requires more advanced skills. Completing a full-scale landscaping project requires intense labor and heavy equipment. More complex elements, such as fire put or irrigation systems, require construction and machinery expertise.
You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants. However, if you lack the needed lawn expertise or if you're planning a larger yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a landscaping contractor.
Professional landscape architects and designers can enhance your lawn, recommend the most cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and expertise to elevate your outdoor living space. Contactors that offer lawn care services can improve the health of your lawn and prevent you from making costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Sterling Heights Landscaping Company
Look for 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 factors in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Consider your landscaping needs before choosing a company. Some companies offer lawn care services—including mowing, fertilizing, pruning, mulching, and controlling weeds—to help with your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also offer pest control and tree clearing services.
Look for a full-service landscaping company for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, or retaining walls. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.
Licensing and Experience
Your provider should possess the appropriate licenses from the Sterling Heights city government. Most contractors also have advanced training and certification in areas such as lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. 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 companies with excellent reputations and positive customer experiences. Check third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Read negative and positive reviews for each company to gauge how it treats its customers. Avoid companies with mainly negative reviews and frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies will have before and after photos of previous projects to demonstrate the quality of their work. Request the company's portfolio. You can specifically ask to see other projects similar to yours, so you can see how your yard might look, and even get some inspiration.
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 choose plant life native to your area—such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant—for best results. The work done on your property shouldn't impact existing vegetation. The company should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
Cost
You should request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best pricing and services. Most companies provide free consultations to review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and review 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 lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Sterling Heights
Generally, landscaping costs $30–$44 per hour in Sterling Heights. These figures vary based on project size and type. Less complicated work, such as gardening or mowing, will be less expensive than a larger project like resodding. Depending on your yard size, your provider may charge by the acre. Large-scale projects require more labor, increasing the price. Pricing will also vary depending on your selected materials. The table below shows the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,827 - $17,102 |
Landscaping Design | $2,239 - $2,985 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $433 - $2,596 |
Landscaping Mulch | $26 - $130 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $87 - $1,731 |
Planting Trees | $227 - $378 |
Sodding | $43 - $52 |
Swimming Pool | $32,884 - $86,536 |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Lawn Care Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Sterling Heights
What are some 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 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.