DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You might have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires advanced skills, intense labor, and heavy equipment. Complicated projects, such as adding an irrigation system or fire pit, also require machinery and construction experience.
You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds. However, if you lack the needed lawn expertise or if you're planning a total yard overhaul, consider hiring a landscaper.
Professional landscape designers and architects have the skills to elevate your outdoor space and the knowledge to develop a long-term maintenance plan. A local professional can help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents expensive DIY mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Billings Landscaping Company
Aim to hire a landscaper that offers the services you need at a reasonable price. You also want to know that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Consider your landscaping needs before choosing a provider. Some providers offer lawn care services—including mowing, fertilizing, pruning, controlling weeds, and mulching—to improve yard health and maintenance. These companies often also offer pest control and tree clearing services.
Plan to hire a full-service landscaper for full-yard revamps or to install elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, or fire pits. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers are trained and certified in various areas, such as lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Your provider should have the appropriate licenses from the Billings city government. It may also employ the following certified professionals:
- Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
- Licensed arborists
- Licensed horticulture specialists
- Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects
Reputation and Reviews
Look for a contractor with good customer reviews. 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. Try to avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including reviews that frequently mention poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance contractors are happy to share their finished projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping projects and designs. They may also provide before and after pictures to show the quality of their work. Ask about completed landscape designs similar to your planned project to get an idea of how it will look.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices might include waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options, and they're an important consideration when hiring a landscaping company. Landscaping work shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Additionally, your landscaper should choose native plants, such as Colorado blue columbine, heartleaf arnica, and scarlet gilia. Ask your contractor about sustainability practices for projects like yours, 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 provide free consultations to review your outdoor space, make 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 better price.
Landscaping Costs in Billings
In Billings, you can expect to spend approximately $21–$31 for landscaping, depending on project type and size. Significant yard work such as resodding will be more expensive than simpler tasks like gardening and mowing. Depending on your yard size, your provider may charge by the acre. Larger or more complex projects require more labor, increasing the project total. Pricing will also vary depending on your selected materials. Here's the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,414 - $16,552 |
Landscaping Design | $1,578 - $2,104 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $394 - $2,361 |
Landscaping Mulch | $24 - $118 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $79 - $1,574 |
Planting Trees | $206 - $344 |
Sodding | $39 - $47 |
Swimming Pool | $29,907 - $78,703 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Billings
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How can I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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