If you have a yard that is in need of some sprucing up, you may be considering whether you should hire professional landscape contractors or simply do it yourself. While there are a number of front and backyard activities that only require elbow grease, there are other tasks that really should be overseen by experts.
Below, we dive into some landscaping activities and practices that separate the pros from the DIYers.
#1 Experience Extends Past Watching HGTV
You can’t simply take a few courses or watch a whole season of your favorite TV show and suddenly become an expert at all things landscaping. Professional landscapers often have a decade or more of hands-on experience before branching out and launching their own companies.
#2 Strong Working Relationships with Other Contractors
Depending on the scope of the project, you may need to work with several contractors specialized in different types of construction. This may also be the case for a pro landscaper. For example, bricklaying, block walls, concrete, pools and pool decks, large plants that require special machinery to install, and even wood framing might require a specialized contractor. In this case, a pro will likely have working relationships with other contractors that can help keep the costs low, quality of work high, and maintain the project timeline.
#3 Every Project is Completed to Perfection
Whereas a homeowner may leave a project at “good enough,” a professional contractor knows that his work speaks for itself. It’s in his (or her) best interest to make sure every job is completed with the highest level of craftsmanship possible so that they don’t have to return to the job site, they maintain a high-level of customer satisfaction (notably in review ratings), and get a steady flow of referrals.
#4 Technology is Embraced
Machinery and software is expensive and if you’re working with a competent landscaping company, they will have made investments into this sort of technology. Understanding computer aided design, topography software, and having the right tool for the job are all key signs of a quality landscaper.
Homeowners can rent tools, fairly inexpensively, but knowing how to use them correctly and efficiently, in comparison to someone who regularly uses them, may take some time to get it right.
#5 Knowledge Beyond Just the Work Performed
While a pro landscaper can often advise on the best plants for the climate you live in, recommend watering and other maintenance activities, and leave your property aesthetically pleasing, there are lesser-known functions that only knowledgeable landscapers will accomplish.
Consider budgeting for materials and labor costs, construction time, and the process of making sure deliveries and subcontractors don’t impede the project, for example, these are very important aspects of any home improvement project and ones that are easily overlooked by less experienced folks.
#6 Understands & Communicates Effectively
Pro landscapers talk the talk, plus they communicate between subs and property owners in an effective manner; as, at times, it seems like the two parties are speaking different languages and in many cases they are. Ensuring everyone is on the same page can prevent major hiccups down the line.
#7 Understands Limitations
You may want to install certain features or include specific plants within your landscape design, but a pro will know what is possible and what isn’t. Professionals understand how drainage, sunlight (or lack thereof), retaining walls, and countless other aspects of both landscaping and hardscaping works. If there is a risk of failure or improper functionality, they can advise against certain inclusions and provide recommendations on what can be safely and successfully accomplished.
