DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Most homeowners have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. A large project might require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as irrigation systems and fire pits require additional construction and machinery expertise.
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, we recommend hiring a professional.
Professional landscape designers and architects have the right knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and develop long-term plans for landscape maintenance. If they also offer lawn care services, contractors can help improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making costly mistakes doing it on your own.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Reno Landscaping Company
Hiring the right landscaping company involves finding one with enough experience that also fits your budget and service needs. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Different landscaping providers serve different lawn needs. Some providers focus on services to help with yard health and maintenance, such as pruning, controlling weeds, mowing, mulching, and fertilizing. These providers also often offer pest management and tree cutting services.
You need a full-service landscaping company if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as fire pits, retaining walls, or sprinkler or irrigation systems. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including adding hardscapes, landscaping rock projects, and gardening. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.
Licensing and Experience
Your landscaper should possess the appropriate licenses from the Nevada State Contractors Board. Contractors often also have advanced training and certification in areas such as outdoor design, lawn maintenance, 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
Try to find a contractor who has an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. You can read both negative and positive reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau in order to get a feel for how a company treats its customers. You want to avoid companies that have frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service, or that have generally poor reviews.
Work Portfolio
Many landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share photos of previously completed projects with potential customers. Request to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, ideally ones that are similar to your own ideas. Companies often have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices can include eco-friendly material options, waste management, and water conservation, and they're an important consideration when selecting a landscaping company. Landscaping work shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Additionally, your contractor should choose native plants, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Ask your landscaper about sustainability practices for your project, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
You should request multiple quotes from different companies. This lets you compare rates and services and may even help you negotiate a lower price. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, talk about project plans, and make recommendations. Your detailed quote should include information about various project expenses, such as labor and materials.
Landscaping Costs in Reno
In Reno, you should expect to spend approximately $28–$42 for landscaping, depending on project type and size. Significant yard work such as resodding will cost more than easier tasks such as mowing and gardening. Bigger projects necessitate more labor, which will increase the final cost. Depending on the size of your yard, your provider might charge by the acre. The cost will also be affected by the materials you choose. Here's the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,718 - $16,957 |
Landscaping Design | $2,096 - $2,794 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $424 - $2,545 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $127 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $85 - $1,697 |
Planting Trees | $222 - $371 |
Sodding | $42 - $51 |
Swimming Pool | $32,239 - $84,840 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Reno
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are some benefits of landscaping?
Is a landscaper the same as a gardener?
What is a landscape designer?
How can I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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