DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping needs more advanced skills. Full-scale landscaping projects require 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 don't have basic lawn expertise or if you're planning a total yard overhaul, consider hiring a landscaping contractor.
Professional landscape designers and architects can not only enhance your lawn but can also recommend cost-effective upgrades and help you develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and expertise to elevate your outdoor space. Contactors that also provide lawn care services can improve your lawn's health and prevent you from making costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Howell Landscaping Company
Experience and reputation are important considerations when hiring a landscaping company, but it's also important that your provider offers the services you need at a reasonable price. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Know what services you need before selecting a provider. Some companies provide lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services may include mowing, controlling weeds, mulching, pruning, and fertilizing. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
You'll need a full-service landscaping company if you're planning a full revamp of your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including landscaping rock projects, adding hardscapes, and gardening. They may also help install fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscape contractors have advanced training and certifications in certain areas, such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. Companies should have the appropriate licenses from the Howell city government. The company 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 recommend using third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to get an idea of a provider's customer experience and overall reputation. Stay away from companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, poor project results, or delayed projects. Try to select a provider with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Ask for a portfolio of your landscaping company's previous work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are proud to share designs and projects with potential customers, including before and after images. You can ask to see photos of past projects that are similar to your design ideas to get an idea of how yours will look.
Sustainability Practices
A landscaper's sustainability practices are essential. These include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Landscaping contractors should implement plant life native to your area—such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower—for best results. Any work on your property shouldn't affect existing vegetation. The company should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing 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, offer recommendations, and discuss project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including materials and labor. You can use competing quotes to negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Howell
In Howell, you can expect to spend approximately $25–$37 for landscaping, depending on project size and type. Significant yard work such as resodding will cost more than more straightforward tasks such as gardening and mowing. Factors like the size of your yard and the materials you choose will all influence your final price. For larger yards, companies might charge by the acre. Large-scale projects require more labor, which will increase costs. Here's the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,704 - $16,939 |
Landscaping Design | $1,891 - $2,522 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $412 - $2,473 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $124 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $82 - $1,648 |
Planting Trees | $216 - $360 |
Sodding | $41 - $49 |
Swimming Pool | $31,319 - $82,417 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Howell
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 should I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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