Outdoor living space adds value to your home.
Seems like everyone has discovered outdoor living spaces. Many homeowners are even tearing out their lawns to create these “living room extensions.”
Not only do they give you additional space to entertain and spend time with your family, they often add significant value to your home.
Versatile outdoor living spaces can be as simple or as elaborate as you choose, depending on taste and budget. Choices include bars, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and televisions. Creating an outdoor living area is an investment, though, and so you’ll probably want the help of a professional.
So how do you decide which landscaping contractor to hire? Matt Kreikemeier of Green Guys Landscaping in St. Louis, Mo gives his advice.
Budget Before Contacting a Landscaping Service
Kreikemeier says the first thing you need to do is establish a budget. Understandably, many people, do not have knowledge of specific landscaping costs, but you need to decide how much money overall you are willing to invest in the project.
Do your research and determine what you would like to achieve in your outdoor space. Look through magazines and decide what feels right for your yard. You should have a definite idea of what you want done before you contact a professional contractor. Then, when you do speak to a contractor, let the landscape designer know that you would appreciate hearing his/her advice. Often times the contractor will have suggestions for achieving your goals at a lower cost.
Now you need to narrow down your choices. Ask your friends to recommend landscaping contractors they have used. Go on line and look for landscaping services in your area. Often times they will have before and after pictures posted for you to review.
If you see a home whose landscaping you admire, knock on the door and ask the homeowner which landscaping contractor they used.
Have the Landscape Service Tour the Outdoor Patio Area
When you’ve gotten the names of a few companies you want to consider, check out their credentials. Are they licensed and insured? Don’t be afraid to ask for proof. Find out how long they have been in business and ask for references. Look at pictures or make arrangements to tour projects they have recently completed.
Have your top candidate come to your home and take a look at your yard, then come up with a design that stays within your budget. Kreikemeier said that a reputable company will not charge you to create a design. Charging for a design is a sign that a contractor is afraid he won’t be awarded the job and shows a lack of confidence in his design ability.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and specify exactly what you expect from the contractor. If you would like to do some of the labor yourself, such as planting or electrical work, make sure the contractor is aware of that from the beginning. It may save you money.
Is the contractor willing to educate you on how to maintain your new area or, if you prefer, will she provide continuing maintenance? Don’t forget to discuss fees for follow-up work.
Finally, get everything in writing, including specific pricing. Never let a contractor start work before you have a signed contract.
Choosing to create an outdoor living space for your home is a major decision. Not only is it a big investment, but you and your family will use this space for many years to come. It’s important to find a contractor who is not only trustworthy and experienced, but who is able to see the vision you have for your ideal outdoor living space.
