DIY Options vs. Professional Services
While many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills, more specialized knowledge is required for landscaping. Full-scale landscaping employs intense labor and heavy equipment. More complex elements, such as irrigation systems or fire pits, need machinery and construction experience as well.
You can do some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, are easier to DIY. You should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a total yard overhaul, or smaller projects for which you don't have the needed expertise.
Professional landscape architects and designers can enhance your lawn, recommend the most cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the knowledge and skill set to elevate your outdoor space. Contactors that offer lawn care services can improve the health of your lawn and help you avoid costly mistakes.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Bothell Landscaping Company
Hiring the right landscaper comes down to certain factors, such as your service needs, your budget, and the company’s experience. Consider the following factors when hiring a landscaping contractor.
Services Offered
You should know what services you need before choosing a provider. Some companies provide lawn care services focused on yard health and maintenance. These services may include controlling weeds, pruning, fertilizing, mulching, and mowing. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaping company is your best option if you're planning to revamp your whole yard or install architectural elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, fire pits, and retaining walls. These companies specialize in outdoor upgrades and designs, such as adding hardscapes, landscaping rock projects, and gardening. Some also offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Your landscaping company should possess the appropriate licenses from the Bothell city government. Most contractors also have advanced training and certification in areas such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. Your provider may have the following certified members on staff:
- 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 like the Better Business Bureau to gauge a company's reputation and customer experience. Stay away from companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results. Try to select a company with positive customer ratings.
Work Portfolio
Most landscaping and maintenance contractors are happy to share their completed projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping designs and projects. They might also have 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 may include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation, and they're an important consideration when choosing a landscaping company. Landscaping work shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Additionally, your contractor should choose native plants, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Ask your landscaper about sustainability practices for your project, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.
Cost
Many landscapers offer free consultations. During this process, a contractor will review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and discuss project ideas. Your detailed quote will outline project expenses like materials and labor. We recommend getting quotes from multiple companies, as you can use these to compare rates and services and sometimes negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Bothell
In Bothell, you can expect to pay roughly $30–$45 for landscaping, depending on project type and size. Significant yard work like resodding will cost more than easier tasks such as mowing and gardening. Pricing will vary based on your chosen materials. For a bigger yard, your provider may charge by the acre. Bigger projects require more labor, which will increase the total price. Here's the average cost of different landscaping services:
Landscaping Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck | $12,963 - $17,284 |
Landscaping Design | $2,291 - $3,055 |
Landscaping LandGrading | $436 - $2,615 |
Landscaping Mulch | $26 - $131 |
Planting FlowerBeds | $87 - $1,743 |
Planting Trees | $228 - $381 |
Sodding | $44 - $52 |
Swimming Pool | $33,119 - $87,155 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Landscaping in Bothell
What are some warning signs of a bad landscaping company?
What are the benefits of landscaping?
Are landscapers the same as gardeners?
What is a landscape designer?
How do I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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