DIY Options vs. Professional Services
You probably have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping requires advanced skills, intense labor, and heavy equipment. More complicated projects, such as adding a fire pit or irrigation system, also require machinery and construction experience.
You can do 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.
Hiring a landscape architect or designer helps you avoid costly mistakes. These professionals have the skills and know-how to elevate your outdoor living space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help develop a plan for long-term maintenance.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an West Seneca Landscaping Company
Reputation and experience are important considerations for choosing 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 shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Different landscaping companies serve different lawn needs. Some providers focus on services to help with the health and maintenance of your yard, such as controlling weeds, mowing, pruning, fertilizing, and mulching. These companies often also provide pest management and tree cutting services.
You'll need full-service landscaping 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 adding hardscapes, landscaping rock projects, and gardening. They can also help install fire pits, retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the West Seneca city government. Most contractors also have advanced training and certification in areas such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Your provider might 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
Seek out companies with excellent reputations and positive customer experiences. Read about the company on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Explore both positive and negative reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Avoid companies with mostly negative reviews and frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service.
Work Portfolio
Many landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share photos of past projects with potential customers. Request to see a portfolio of landscaping designs and projects, preferably ones similar to your own ideas. Often, companies have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.
Sustainability Practices
Ask your landscaping company about its sustainability practices, including waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider can explain its own sustainability practices and give you recommendations for sustainable maintenance, including how to reduce cost, water consumption, and waste. When planting vegetation, the company should choose native area plants, such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower. Any work they complete shouldn't impact your existing vegetation.
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 review project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining your project costs, including materials and labor. You can use competing quotes to help negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in West Seneca
Landscaping in West Seneca generally costs between $24 and $36 per hour. These prices depend on factors such as project size and type. Bigger projects like resodding will cost more than simple lawn tasks like mowing or gardening. Factors such as materials and the size of your yard will impact your final cost. For larger yards, a provider might charge by the acre. Large-scale projects need more labor, which will increase costs. The table below shows 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 West Seneca
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 pricing with a landscaping company?
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