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When Should Homeowners Consider Professional Landscaping?

By
Home Builder

Homeowners are often hesitant to hire professionals for their landscaping. They already have the tools they need to tend to their lawn, such as shovels, shears, trowels and other equipment, so why should they contact a service? What value is there in seeking outside help when starting a new project?

In truth, this mindset is limiting. You're more than capable of handling your landscaping on your own, but with an experienced team who has high-quality equipment, the range of projects you can complete is far more extensive. You won't have to settle for anything less than what you imagined.

Plus, if you're looking to max out ROI, many homeowners aim to spend  10 to 15 percent of their overall home value on landscaping. You want to make sure an investment as significant as this is as profitable as possible.

With this in mind, when should you consider professional landscaping for your property? When should you choose to hire professionals instead of taking the standard, DIY approach? Here are three scenarios in which you should contact a team.

1. You're Designing Your Layout

When the type of project you've planned goes beyond your experience with landscaping, you should consult a professional. While you won't have any trouble planting flowers or pruning your trees, a large-scale renovation with permits will necessitate a team. They'll assist you throughout the process.

Concerning permits, a professional landscaper can advise you on what you'll need to remain in full compliance with regulations. Not every project will require a permit, but when they do, you'll have far less trouble with local zoning laws and building codes. Having someone to help with the paperwork is a huge relief.

In terms of design, meeting with a professional is almost always your best option. They'll show you layouts that work within your budget and align with your personal preferences. More than that, they'll have access to the best materials and service available, a convenience you should consider when planning.

2. You Don't Have the Right Tools

Shovels, shears and trowels aren't enough for most large-scale projects. You need access to professional equipment if you're going to make a significant difference in your landscaping. An experienced team is worth the cost, as proper landscapes improve property value by 10 to 12 percent.

As an example of professional equipment, landscaping companies often employ skid steers, which can haul gravel, grade lots and move dirt. Other equipment, such as small and mini hydraulic excavators, are indispensable for tasks like trenching and planting within the confines of a tight space.

Skid steers and hydraulic excavators are only two types of equipment among many others will make the landscaping process more manageable. With this kind of specialized machinery and a crew to operate it, you'll meet your goals with a higher degree of professionalism in far less time.

3. You're Selecting Your Plants

Selecting the best species of plants for your landscaping isn't such a simple task. When deciding on your inventory, you have to choose seeds that will survive and thrive in your garden's conditions. You'll need to account for factors like soil quality, water usage, climate and even your general lifestyle.

With all these little details, it's often better to delegate the responsibility to a professional. Knowing when to seek outside help is crucial to maintaining the beauty — and safety — of your yard. As context, many of the plants homeowners include in their landscaping is harmful to pets and children.

Something as unassuming as a buttercup can cause severe digestive injuries. There are many other poisonous plants to avoid, such as hydrangeas and wisteria. Professional landscapers are aware of these risks and can keep you from purchasing any plants that might lead to problems.

Review Your Options Today

If you're hesitant to hire landscapers, you're not alone. You might prefer the hands-on, DIY approach to projects, and that's OK. Even so, it's essential to recognize when you need an experienced crew, with their industry knowledge, professional equipment and awareness of potential hazards.

As you review your options, consider contacting a landscaping company in your area. You'll see the results are well worth the initial investment.