Three Tips For Hiring the Best Landscaper For the Job

April showers are said to bring May flowers, but wouldn’t you rather have an experienced and professional landscape designer carry out your spring landscape design process instead of leaving it up to the weather? After all, the green thumb of a landscaping professional can do a lot more than make your yard look good; it can help save you money.

Did you know that properly selected, placed, and maintained landscaping can significantly reduce heating costs by providing protection from the elements? In addition, according to the American Public Power Association, landscaping can reduce air conditioning costs by as much as 50% by shading the walls and windows of a home. Furthermore, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that trees can reduce noise pollution by up to 50% and can mask unpleasant noise with pleasant sounds.

With all the benefits that landscaping provides, it’s important to find the right landscape designer for the job. Here are just a few ways to get started.

Ask around

Keeping up with the Jones’ isn’t always a bad thing, especially if they have beautiful landscaping. One of the best ways to find a landscape designer is by word of mouth. If you see a neighbor whose yard makes you green with envy, it’s a good idea to ask who their landscaper was. Or, your family or friends may be able to recommend a service they’ve used in the past.

Have an idea of what you want

Not all landscaping projects are created equal. Therefore, you can save time — and perhaps even money — by first identifying what the scope of work of your project will entail. For example, if you’re interested in creating sustainable design that incorporates native plant species and other eco-friendly aspects such as rain water collection, you should hire a landscape designer that has direct experience in this area.

The more, the merrier

Getting multiple bids for the the same project allows you to find the right price for your budget. You can compare bids to make sure you’re not paying more than you should. However, be wary of bids that are too low to be true. This may be a sign of hidden fees or shoddy work. Before working with any landscaping professional it’s also a good idea to ensure they are both licensed and insured.