Landscaping
Name | Phone No | |
Green Future Construction | ||
J&G Landscape Design, Inc. | ||
East Coast Landscape Design | 202-552-6695 | |
Turf Center Lawns, Inc. | 301-830-7898 | |
Bob Hawkins, Hawkins Signature Landscapes | bobhawkins@hotmail.com | 301-440-0590 |
Landscaping is more than just a few plants and trees surrounding a house. Experts estimate that homeowners in the United States spend between 30 and 40 billion dollars per year on the creation and maintenance of residential outdoor spaces. Generally, a traditional company will staff horticultural experts along with work crews to manage the cleanup and care of lawns and planting beds. While some companies only do a periodic mowing, trimming, and edging of grass areas, more expansive services are available. Companies may offer hand -weeding of planting beds or seasonal work. Landscaping companies that offer hardscape work may also construct outdoor living spaces such as patios and terraces.
Landscaping Elements
Softscape features – A variety of beautiful trees and shrubs thrives in the metro-DC climate. Combinations of these will create a visually plea sing scene characterized by contrasts of texture and scale. In addition to selecting trees and plants whose appearance you like, consider choosing species native to the area. Often such species are easier to care for because they have adapted to this particular soil and climate.
Hardscape features – Landscape designs commonly incorporate features such as a fountain or fireplace as a pleasing focal point. Ponds, waterfalls, and fountains are designed to enhance a garden or entertainment space. There is also the option of a full-scale fireplace with a hearth and chimney, which can give an outdoor entertaining area the coziness of an indoor living space. As a sturdy, permanent feature, outdoor fireplaces are usually constructed from masonry elements and finished in brick, tile, stone, or concrete.
Lighting – Lighting is an integral part of landscaping; it can create an elegant nighttime atmosphere and draw attention to particular aspects of the landscape and home. Homeowners who plan to do a lot of outdoor entertaining should make sure that their lighting design is adequate for evening events.
Homeowners who are interested in wide-ranging improvements to their property should consider hiring a full-service landscape design company. By incorporating the skills of landscape designers, masons, and carpenters into one staff, a full-service company can manage all aspects of an outdoor living project.
The Hiring Process
Homeowners should make sure the company meets all legal requirements, including insurance. Also ask if the work crew is employed by the company itself or if any work is subcontracted. If there are subcontractors, make sure they have the appropriate coverage, too.
Many companies maintain photo albums of landscape projects they are very proud of, and any reputable company will be happy to provide references. Homeowners might also want to take a look at some of the projects in person.
Before any work begins, the designer should provide a final plan or drawing of the project, and a written contract should be drawn up. Make sure the scope of work described in it matches the drawings. Typically, a down-payment of 30 to 50 percent is required prior to the start of the work.