Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Lorain, OH

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills. However, landscaping requires more specialized knowledge. Full-scale landscaping employs heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as fire pits or irrigation systems, need construction and machinery experience as well.

Do-it-yourself (DIY) landscaping can be good for smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed. However, you should consider hiring a professional landscaper if you’re completing a yard overhaul or don’t have basic lawn expertise.

Professional landscape designers and architects have the skill set to elevate your outdoor space and the knowledge to develop a long-term maintenance plan. A local 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 costly mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Lorain Landscaping Company

Aim to hire a landscaper that offers the services you need within your budget. Also ensure that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Consider your landscaping needs before choosing a provider. Some companies offer lawn care services—such as fertilizing, mowing, pruning, mulching, and controlling weeds—to help with your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also provide pest control and tree clearing services.

A full-service landscaper is your best option if you want to revamp your entire yard or install architectural elements such as fire pits, retaining walls, and sprinkler or irrigation systems. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some also offer lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Your provider should possess the appropriate licenses from the Lorain city government. Contractors often also have advanced training and certification in areas such as lawn maintenance, horticulture, and outdoor design. 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

It might also have certifications from professional organizations, including the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. While not mandatory, these certifications are an added bonus. Landscaping companies should be fully insured and bonded. Contractors should have liability insurance for protection against bodily injury or property damage. Homeowners should request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to verify coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Try to find a provider with an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. Check both positive and negative reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to get a feel for how a company treats its customers. You want to avoid companies that have frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service, or that have generally poor reviews.

Work Portfolio

Many landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share photos of previous projects with prospective 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

A landscaper's sustainability practices are essential. These include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation. Landscaping contractors should use plant life native to your area—such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant—for best results. Any work done on your property shouldn't impact existing vegetation. The company should advise of any sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

Cost

You should request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best services and pricing. Most companies provide free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and review project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote of expected project costs, including materials and labor. You may wish to use competing quotes to help negotiate a lower price.

Landscaping Costs in Lorain

Landscaping in Lorain generally costs between $23 and $35 per hour. These figures depend on things such as project size and type. Bigger projects, such as resodding, will cost more than simple lawn tasks like mowing or gardening. Larger projects require more labor, which increases the total cost. Depending on the size of your yard, the company might charge by the acre. The cost will also be affected by the materials you choose. The table below shows the average cost of landscaping by project type:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,011 - $16,015
Landscaping Design	$1,762 - $2,349
Landscaping LandGrading	$404 - $2,426
Landscaping Mulch	$24 - $121
Planting FlowerBeds	$81 - $1,618
Planting Trees	$212 - $353
Sodding	$40 - $49
Swimming Pool	$30,736 - $80,883