I know it doesn't seem like it, but we are more than half way done with winter 2009 and that means it is time to start thinking about the spring and what landscaping projects are in store this year. You may want to plant a few flowers or other annual plants, but the big projects need to get done too. Big patios, new wood decks or retaining walls and even berms need to be done by professionals. Are you ready to find a landscape contractor or landscape pro?
Here are some good ideas and things to consider if you are looking at revamping your lawn or landscape this year in 2009.
I always recommend that homeowners bring in a landscape architect to draw up landscape plans before doing anything else. These guys are not only creative, but they can spot trouble areas for you and recommend solutions. In addition, they understand what plants will work well on your site and can recommend the best ones for your site. Hiring a landscape architect or designer may cost a little money, but this is a step that should not be skipped. You will be glad you had a plan to follow.
Once you have the design, you can start making some decisions. Primarily, you should figure out if any of the plans can be completed by you, do-it-yourself style. Of course, many of you are not into DIY projects and would prefer to keep your hands clean and knuckles soft, but if you are, then you can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars by completing portions of the project yourself.
The next step is to actually bring in a few landscape contractors and share with them the plans you had drawn up in step one. I would try to interview at least 3 contractors and see what they say. Compare their prices and also their optimism and realism. If a guy tells you he can get the whole project done in a month, yet another guy says it will take 6 months, then you need to reconsider what you are being told. In addition, ask to see some properties he has completed and take a field trip to check them out.
Finally, you should set a time frame that you think the design should be completed in. Keep in mind there are weather issues that crop up during any project and patience will be a virtue to you. It is always advised that you start your landscaping project in the early spring so you can use the summer to either run the overages, or actually enjoy what you have paid for!
Follow these ideas and you will be able to get that landscape re-done this year without a hassle. Be ready for a few bumps, but get started soon. You will be out and enjoying summer margaritas on that new patio before you know it! Get started soon and get your contractor lined up before he gets booked up for the season. - 16492
Here are some good ideas and things to consider if you are looking at revamping your lawn or landscape this year in 2009.
I always recommend that homeowners bring in a landscape architect to draw up landscape plans before doing anything else. These guys are not only creative, but they can spot trouble areas for you and recommend solutions. In addition, they understand what plants will work well on your site and can recommend the best ones for your site. Hiring a landscape architect or designer may cost a little money, but this is a step that should not be skipped. You will be glad you had a plan to follow.
Once you have the design, you can start making some decisions. Primarily, you should figure out if any of the plans can be completed by you, do-it-yourself style. Of course, many of you are not into DIY projects and would prefer to keep your hands clean and knuckles soft, but if you are, then you can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars by completing portions of the project yourself.
The next step is to actually bring in a few landscape contractors and share with them the plans you had drawn up in step one. I would try to interview at least 3 contractors and see what they say. Compare their prices and also their optimism and realism. If a guy tells you he can get the whole project done in a month, yet another guy says it will take 6 months, then you need to reconsider what you are being told. In addition, ask to see some properties he has completed and take a field trip to check them out.
Finally, you should set a time frame that you think the design should be completed in. Keep in mind there are weather issues that crop up during any project and patience will be a virtue to you. It is always advised that you start your landscaping project in the early spring so you can use the summer to either run the overages, or actually enjoy what you have paid for!
Follow these ideas and you will be able to get that landscape re-done this year without a hassle. Be ready for a few bumps, but get started soon. You will be out and enjoying summer margaritas on that new patio before you know it! Get started soon and get your contractor lined up before he gets booked up for the season. - 16492
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