DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You might have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping requires advanced skills, heavy equipment, and intense labor. Complicated landscaping projects, such as adding an irrigation system or fire pit, also require construction and machinery experience.
You can handle some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. You should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a total yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you don't have the needed expertise.
Professional landscape designers and architects have the proper knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and develop long-term landscape maintenance plans. If they also offer lawn care services, contractors can help improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making costly mistakes attempting it yourself.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an New Rochelle Landscaping Company
Aim to hire a landscaper that offers the services you need at a reasonable price. Also ensure that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Different landscaping providers cater to different lawn needs. Some companies focus on services that help with your yard's health and maintenance, such as controlling weeds, pruning, fertilizing, mowing, and mulching. These providers also often offer pest management and tree cutting services.
Choose a full-service landscaping company if you plan to revamp 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 sprinkler or irrigation systems, fire pits, retaining walls, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Landscapers often have advanced training and certification in areas like horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. A company should hold the appropriate licensure from the New Rochelle city government. It may also 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
Look for a contractor who has a good reputation and positive customer reviews. Check 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 providers that have frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service, or that have overall poor reviews.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance companies will have before and after photos of previously completed projects to showcase their work to potential customers. Ask to see the company's portfolio. You can specifically ask for photos of projects similar to yours, so you can see how your yard might look, and even get some inspiration.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability is important to consider during and after a landscaping project. Ask your landscaping company about its best practices for eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management; you can also ask for maintenance recommendations. Landscapers should opt for native plants (such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower) when planting new vegetation, and they shouldn't let their work affect your existing vegetation.
Cost
Many companies offer free consultations. During this process, a contractor will review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project ideas. Your detailed quote will cover project expenses like materials and labor. We recommend getting quotes from multiple companies, as you can use these to compare services and rates and sometimes negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in New Rochelle
Landscaping typically costs $32–$48 per hour in New Rochelle, depending on project size and type. Simple tasks like mowing or gardening will cost less than significant yard work, such as resodding. Bigger projects need more labor, which increases the total cost. Depending on the size of your yard, your provider might charge by the acre. The cost will also be influenced by the materials you choose. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $13,117 - $17,489 |
Landscaping Design | $2,407 - $3,209 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $443 - $2,656 |
Landscaping Mulch | $27 - $133 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $89 - $1,771 |
Planting Trees | $232 - $387 |
Sodding | $44 - $53 |
Swimming Pool | $33,640 - $88,528 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in New Rochelle
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 do I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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