DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Most homeowners have at least basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires more advanced skills. A large project might require heavy equipment and intense labor. Complicated projects such as irrigation systems and fire pits need additional construction and machinery expertise.
Small landscaping projects, such as adding flower beds or removing overgrown plants, can be easy projects to DIY. If you don't have basic lawn expertise or are planning a total yard overhaul, we recommend hiring a professional.
Professional landscape designers and architects have the skills to elevate your outdoor space and the knowledge to develop a long-term maintenance plan. A professional can identify the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who also offers lawn care services can improve your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents expensive DIY mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Millcreek Landscaping Company
Look for a landscaping company 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
Different landscaping companies cater to different lawn needs. Some companies focus on services that help with your yard's health and maintenance, such as fertilizing, controlling weeds, mulching, mowing, and pruning. These providers also often offer pest management and tree cutting services.
Plan to hire a full-service landscaping company if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as fire pits, retaining walls, or sprinkler or irrigation systems. These providers specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to architectural and design services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Companies should hold the appropriate licensure from the Millcreek city government. The company may 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
You want a contractor who has a good 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 company treats its customers. Avoid providers that have frequent mentions of poor project results, unreliable customer service, or delayed projects, or that have generally poor reviews.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance contractors proudly share their completed projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping designs and projects. They may also provide before and after pictures to show the quality of their work. Request finished landscape designs similar to your planned project to get a better idea of how it will look.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability practices might include waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options, and they're an important consideration when choosing a landscaper. Landscaping work on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Additionally, your landscaper should choose native plants, such as blue vervain, rough-stemmed goldenrod, and cardinal flower. Ask your landscaper about sustainability practices for your project, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
Cost
Request quotes from multiple companies to compare services and prices. Most companies offer free consultations in which they'll review your outdoor space, provide recommendations, and go over project plans. Your detailed quote should outline project costs such as materials and labor. You can use this quote to compare companies and sometimes negotiate a better price.
Landscaping Costs in Millcreek
Landscaping typically costs $20–$30 per hour in Millcreek, depending on project size and type. Simple tasks like gardening or mowing are less expensive than major yard work, such as resodding. Factors such as materials and the size of your yard will affect your final cost. For larger yards, companies might charge by the acre. Large-scale projects require more labor, which will increase costs. The table below breaks down the average cost of common landscaping projects:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $11,745 - $15,660 |
Landscaping Design | $1,517 - $2,022 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $390 - $2,339 |
Landscaping Mulch | $23 - $117 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $78 - $1,560 |
Planting Trees | $204 - $341 |
Sodding | $39 - $47 |
Swimming Pool | $29,631 - $77,976 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Millcreek
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaper?
What are some benefits of landscaping?
Is a landscaper the same as a gardener?
What is a landscape designer?
How should I negotiate a price with a landscaping company?
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