DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. Large projects may require heavy equipment and intense labor. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems need additional machinery and construction expertise.
You can handle 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 landscaping contractor for things like a total yard overhaul, or smaller projects for which you don't have the needed expertise.
Hiring a landscape designer or architect helps you avoid expensive mistakes. Professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor living space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term maintenance plan.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Burnsville Landscaping Company
Experience and reputation 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 shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Have an idea of what services you need before picking a provider. Some providers offer lawn care services that focus on yard health and maintenance. These services might include fertilizing, mulching, controlling weeds, mowing, and pruning. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaping company is the way to go if you want to revamp your entire yard or install architectural elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and fire pits. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, such as adding hardscapes, gardening, and landscaping rock projects. Some may also provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Your landscaping company should possess the appropriate licenses from the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Contractors often also have advanced training and certification in areas such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Your provider might employ 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
Seek out companies with positive customer reviews and strong reputations. We recommend checking third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Explore both negative and positive reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Avoid companies with mostly negative reviews and frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service.
Work Portfolio
Ask for a portfolio of your landscaping company's past work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share projects and designs with potential customers, including before and after images. Ask to see 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
A landscaping company's sustainability practices are essential. These practices include water conservation, eco-friendly material options, and waste management. Your provider should select plant life native to your area—such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant—for best results. Any work done 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.
Cost
Request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best services and pricing. Most companies provide free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and discuss project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including materials and labor. You may wish to use competing quotes to help negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Burnsville
Landscaping typically costs $28–$41 per hour in Burnsville, depending on project type and size. Simple tasks like mowing or gardening will cost less than major yard work, such as resodding. Factors like your yard's size and the materials you choose will impact your final price. For larger yards, a provider might charge by the acre. Bigger projects need more labor, which will increase costs. The table below shows the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $14,448 - $19,264 |
Landscaping Design | $2,082 - $2,776 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $423 - $2,540 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $127 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $85 - $1,694 |
Planting Trees | $222 - $370 |
Sodding | $42 - $51 |
Swimming Pool | $32,178 - $84,678 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Burnsville
What are warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
What are some benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How should I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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