DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have a basic level of 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 require additional 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 want to do a total yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a landscaping contractor.
Hiring a landscape architect or designer helps prevent you from making costly mistakes. These professionals have the skills and know-how to elevate your outdoor space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a plan for long-term maintenance.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Manchester Landscaping Company
Finding the right landscaping company involves finding one with enough experience that also meets your service needs and budget. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Different landscaping providers serve different lawn needs. Some focus on services that help with your yard's health and maintenance, such as pruning, fertilizing, mowing, mulching, and controlling weeds. These companies often also provide pest control and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaper is your best choice if you want to revamp your whole yard or install architectural elements such as retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and fire pits. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some might also provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Companies should have the appropriate licenses from the Manchester city government. It may have 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
We suggest using third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to gauge a provider's customer experience and overall reputation. Stay away from companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service. Try to select a company with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Many landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share photos of previously completed projects with prospective customers. Request to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, preferably ones similar to the ideas you have for your yard. Often, companies have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.
Sustainability Practices
A landscaping company's sustainability practices are essential. These include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation. Your provider should use plant life native to your area—such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower—for best results. The work on your property shouldn't affect your existing vegetation. The company should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
Homeowners should request quotes from multiple companies to learn about pricing and services. Most companies conduct free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and go over project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including labor and materials. You may wish to use competing quotes to negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Manchester
Generally, landscaping costs $32–$49 per hour in Manchester. These figures vary based on project type and size. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Depending on the size of your yard, your provider may charge by the acre. Large-scale projects require more labor, increasing the project total. Pricing will also vary depending on your selected materials. Here's the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,219 - $17,626 |
Landscaping Design | $2,448 - $3,264 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $445 - $2,670 |
Landscaping Mulch | $27 - $134 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $89 - $1,780 |
Planting Trees | $233 - $389 |
Sodding | $45 - $53 |
Swimming Pool | $33,825 - $89,012 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Manchester
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 should I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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