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 necessitate construction and machinery experience.
You can DIY some landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants. However, if you lack the needed lawn expertise or if you want to do a larger yard overhaul, consider hiring a landscaping contractor.
Professional landscape architects and designers have the right knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. They help you choose the most cost-effective upgrades and create 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 Tigard Landscaping Company
Hiring 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 shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Know what services you need before picking a company. Some companies provide lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services may include fertilizing, controlling weeds, mowing, pruning, and mulching. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaper is the best choice if you want to revamp your entire yard or install architectural elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, and fire pits. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. Some might also provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscaping contractors are trained and certified in various areas, such as outdoor design, lawn maintenance, and horticulture. Your provider should have the appropriate licenses from the Oregon Landscape Contractors Board. 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
We recommend checking third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to gauge a provider's reputation and customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of delayed projects, poor project results, or unreliable customer service. Try to select a provider with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Many landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share photos of previously completed projects with prospective customers. Ask to see a portfolio of landscaping projects and designs, ideally ones that are similar to the ideas you have for your yard. Companies often have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.
Sustainability Practices
Ask your landscaping company about its sustainability practices, such as waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider can explain its own sustainability practices and provide recommendations for sustainable maintenance, such as how to reduce cost, water consumption, and waste. When planting vegetation, your landscaper should use native area plants, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Any work completed shouldn't affect your existing vegetation.
Cost
Request multiple quotes from different to compare pricing and services. Most providers offer free consultations where they'll review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and discuss project ideas. A detailed quote should outline project costs such as labor and materials. You can use a quote to compare companies and sometimes negotiate a better deal.
Landscaping Costs in Tigard
Landscaping in Tigard generally costs between $24 and $37 per hour. These figures depend on factors such as project type and size. Bigger projects like resodding will cost more than simple lawn tasks like gardening or mowing. Larger projects necessitate more labor, which will increase the final cost. Depending on your yard's size, the company might charge by the acre. The price will also be affected by the materials you choose. The table below breaks down the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,612 - $16,816 |
Landscaping Design | $1,853 - $2,470 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $410 - $2,459 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $123 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $82 - $1,639 |
Planting Trees | $215 - $358 |
Sodding | $41 - $49 |
Swimming Pool | $31,145 - $81,960 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Tigard
What are 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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