DIY Options vs. Professional Services
While many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills, more specialized knowledge is required for landscaping. Full-scale landscaping requires 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 works for smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants. However, you should hire a professional landscaper if you’re completing a yard overhaul or don’t have basic lawn expertise.
Professional landscape designers and architects have the skills to elevate your outdoor space and the expertise to create a long-term maintenance plan. A local professional can identify the most cost-effective upgrades, and one who offers lawn care services can enhance your yard health. Hiring a professional also prevents costly DIY mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Murray 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 hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
Know what services you need before choosing a company. Some providers offer lawn care services focusing on yard health and maintenance. These services might include mowing, controlling weeds, mulching, fertilizing, and pruning. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
Choose full-service landscaping if you plan to revamp your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. Full-service companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, including landscaping rock projects, adding hardscapes, and gardening. They may also help install sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, fire pits, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Most landscaping contractors are trained and certified in areas like lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Your provider should possess the appropriate licenses from the Utah Division of Professional Licensing. 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 suggest using third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to gauge a company'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 choose a provider with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Ask for a portfolio of your landscaping company's previous work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are proud to share designs and projects with potential customers, including before and after pictures. Ask to see photos of past projects that are similar to your design ideas so that you can get an idea of how yours will look.
Sustainability Practices
A landscaper's sustainability practices are essential. These include eco-friendly material options, waste management, and water conservation. Your provider should choose native plant life—such as Colorado blue columbine, heartleaf arnica, and scarlet gilia—for best results. The work completed on your property shouldn't affect existing vegetation. The company should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
Cost
You should request quotes from multiple companies—this allows you to compare services and cost and might even help you negotiate a better price. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote includes information about various project costs, such as materials and labor.
Landscaping Costs in Murray
Landscaping typically costs $27–$40 per hour in Murray, depending on project size and type. Simple tasks, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than major yard work, such as resodding. Depending on your yard size, the company may charge by the acre. Large-scale projects require more labor, increasing the price. Pricing will also depend on your selected materials. The table below breaks down the average cost of landscaping by project type:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,339 - $16,452 |
Landscaping Design | $2,025 - $2,701 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $420 - $2,520 |
Landscaping Mulch | $25 - $126 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $84 - $1,680 |
Planting Trees | $220 - $367 |
Sodding | $42 - $50 |
Swimming Pool | $31,922 - $84,005 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Murray
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 should I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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