DIY Options vs. Professional Services
Most homeowners have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping necessitates more advanced skills. A large project might require intense labor and heavy equipment. Complicated projects such as fire pits or irrigation systems need additional construction and machinery expertise.
You can do some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. You should hire a professional landscaper for things like a complete yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you lack the needed expertise.
Hiring a landscape designer or architect helps you avoid expensive mistakes. These professionals have the knowledge and skills to elevate your outdoor living space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term maintenance plan.
Factors To Consider When Choosing an Kirkland Landscaping Company
Reputation and experience are important considerations when hiring a landscaper, but you also want to ensure that your provider offers the services you need within your budget. Consider the following factors when shopping for landscaping contractors.
Services Offered
Have an idea of what services you need before choosing a company. Some companies provide lawn care services that focus on yard health and maintenance. These services may include pruning, fertilizing, controlling weeds, mulching, and mowing. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.
A full-service landscaper is the way to go if you want to revamp your entire yard or install architectural elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, fire pits, and retaining walls. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, such as adding hardscapes, gardening, and landscaping rock projects. Some may also offer lawn maintenance services.
Licensing and Experience
Your landscaper should possess the appropriate licenses from the Kirkland city government. Most contractors also have advanced training and certification in areas such as horticulture, outdoor design, and lawn maintenance. Your provider might 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
Make sure you choose a contractor who gets good reviews from customers. You can look at third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to ensure a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including reviews that frequently mention unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results.
Work Portfolio
Request to see a portfolio of your landscaping contractor's past work. Most landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share projects and designs with potential customers, including before and after images. Ask to see photos of past projects that are similar to your design ideas so that you can get a picture of how your project will look.
Sustainability Practices
Sustainability is important to consider both during and after a landscaping project. Ask your landscaping company about its best practices for eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management; you can also ask for maintenance recommendations. Landscaping providers should use native plant life (such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry) when planting new vegetation, and they shouldn't allow their work to affect your existing vegetation.
Cost
Request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best services and pricing. Most companies provide free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and go over project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining your project costs, including materials and labor. You may wish to use competing quotes to help negotiate a lower price.
Landscaping Costs in Kirkland
Generally, landscaping costs $30–$45 per hour in Kirkland. These prices vary based on project type and size. Less complicated work, such as mowing or gardening, will be less expensive than a larger project like resodding. Larger projects need more labor, which will increase the final cost. Depending on the size of your yard, the company may charge by the acre. The price will also be affected by the materials you choose. The table below breaks down 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 Kirkland
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 do I negotiate pricing with a landscaping company?
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