DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Although many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, landscaping requires more advanced skills. Completing a full-scale landscaping project requires intense labor and heavy equipment. If you want to add complex elements such as an irrigation system or fire pit, you'll need someone with construction and machinery expertise.
You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding flower beds. However, if you don't have basic lawn expertise or if you're planning a larger yard overhaul, consider hiring a landscaper.
Hiring a landscape designer or architect helps you avoid expensive mistakes. These professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help develop a plan for long-term maintenance.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Washington 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
It’s important to assess your landscaping needs before selecting a provider. If you want assistance with yard health and maintenance, find one that offers lawn care services. These services might include controlling weeds, pruning, mulching, mowing, and fertilizing. Some companies offer additional pest management services and tree removal.
You need a full-service landscaper if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as retaining walls, fire pits, or sprinkler or irrigation systems. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some offer lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.
Licensing and Experience
Landscape contractors often have advanced training and certification in areas like lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Your provider should hold the appropriate licensure from the Washington 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
We recommend checking third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to get an idea of a company's customer experience and overall reputation. Stay away from companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service. Try to choose a provider with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance contractors proudly share finished projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping designs and projects. They may also have before and after pictures to show off their quality work. Request finished landscape designs similar to your project to get an idea of how it will look.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability is important to consider both during and after landscaping work. Ask your landscaping company about its best practices for waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation; you might also ask for maintenance recommendations. Landscaping companies should use native plant life (such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant) when planting new vegetation, and they shouldn't let their work affect your existing vegetation.
Cost
Many providers offer free consultations. During this process, a contractor will review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project plans. Your detailed quote will outline project costs such as labor and materials. We recommend getting multiple quotes from different companies, as you can use these to compare rates and services and sometimes negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in Washington
Generally, landscaping costs $25–$37 per hour in Washington. These prices vary based on project type and size. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as mowing or gardening, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Pricing will vary based on your chosen materials. For a larger yard, your provider may charge by the acre. Large or complex projects require more labor, which will increase the total price. The table below breaks down the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,578 - $16,770 |
Landscaping Design | $1,866 - $2,489 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $411 - $2,464 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $123 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $82 - $1,642 |
Planting Trees | $215 - $359 |
Sodding | $41 - $49 |
Swimming Pool | $31,206 - $82,121 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Washington
What are warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
What are some 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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