DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Many homeowners have at least basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. Large projects may require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems require additional machinery and construction expertise.
You can complete some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, 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 skill set to elevate your outdoor space and the expertise to create a long-term maintenance plan. A professional can help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents you from making expensive mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Tonawanda Landscaping Company
Selecting the right landscaping company comes down to certain factors, such as your service needs, your budget, and the company’s experience. Consider the following factors when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
You should assess your landscaping needs before choosing a provider. If you’re looking for assistance with yard health and maintenance, you’ll need a company offering lawn care services. These services can include fertilizing, pruning, controlling weeds, mowing, and mulching. Some companies provide additional pest management services and tree removal.
Plan to hire a full-service landscaper if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, or retaining walls. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers are trained and certified in areas like horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the Tonawanda city government. It may also employ the following certified professionals:
- 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 an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Read both positive and negative reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau in order to get a feel for how a provider treats its customers. Avoid providers that have frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service, or that have overall poor reviews.
Work Portfolio
Ask for a portfolio of your landscaping company's previous work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share projects and designs with potential customers, including before and after photos. Ask to see photos of past projects that are similar to your own design ideas so that you can get a picture of how your project will look.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices might include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management, and they're an important consideration when selecting a landscaper. Landscaping work shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Additionally, your contractor should choose native plants, such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower. Ask about sustainability practices for projects like yours, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
Cost
You should request quotes from multiple companies. This allows you to compare rates and services and might even help you negotiate a lower price. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, talk about project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote includes information about various project expenses, such as materials and labor.
Landscaping Costs in Tonawanda
Generally, landscaping costs $24–$36 per hour in Tonawanda. These figures vary based on project size and type. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as mowing or gardening, will be less expensive than a larger project like resodding. Larger projects need more labor, which will increase the final cost. Depending on the size of your yard, the company may charge by the acre. The price will also be affected by the materials you choose. The table below breaks down the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,031 - $16,042 |
Landscaping Design | $1,796 - $2,395 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $406 - $2,439 |
Landscaping Mulch | $24 - $122 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $81 - $1,626 |
Planting Trees | $213 - $355 |
Sodding | $41 - $49 |
Swimming Pool | $30,889 - $81,287 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Tonawanda
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaper?
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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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