DIY Options vs. Professional Services
While many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills, more specialized knowledge is required for landscaping. Full-scale landscaping requires heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as irrigation systems or fire pits, need construction and machinery experience as well.
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 want to do a larger yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a landscaping contractor.
Professional landscape designers and architects have the skill set to elevate your outdoor space and the knowledge to create a long-term maintenance plan. Your local professional can identify the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who also offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents you from making costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Brentwood Landscaping Company
Look for a landscaper that offers the services you need within your budget. Also ensure 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 pruning, controlling weeds, mowing, fertilizing, and mulching—to help with yard health and maintenance. These companies often also provide pest control and tree clearing services.
A full-service landscaping company is your best option if you're planning 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 upgrades and designs, such as gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. Some may also offer 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 hold the appropriate licensure from the Brentwood city government. Your provider may 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
Make sure you choose a contractor with good customer reviews. You can check third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to verify that a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including ones that frequently mention unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results.
Work Portfolio
Many landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share photos of past projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of landscaping projects and designs, ideally ones similar to your own ideas. Companies often 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 select plant life native to your area—such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower—for best results. Any work done on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and provide recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.
Cost
Homeowners should request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best pricing and services. Most companies offer 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 materials and labor. You can use competing quotes to negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Brentwood
Landscaping typically costs $34–$51 per hour in Brentwood, depending on project type and size. Simple tasks like mowing or gardening are less expensive than major yard work, such as resodding. Bigger projects require more labor, which increases the total cost. Depending on your yard's size, your provider might charge by the acre. The cost will also be affected by the materials you choose. Here's the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,134 - $17,512 |
Landscaping Design | $2,586 - $3,449 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $453 - $2,720 |
Landscaping Mulch | $27 - $136 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $91 - $1,813 |
Planting Trees | $238 - $396 |
Sodding | $45 - $54 |
Swimming Pool | $34,449 - $90,654 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Brentwood
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Is a landscaper the same as a gardener?
What is a landscape designer?
How can I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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