The Basics of Landscape Installation
The landscape design and construction process can be overwhelming for homeowners. Educating yourself about the basic steps of the landscape installation will help ease that tension and set you up for success.
Landscaping Harrisburg PA is a great way to increase curb appeal and add value to your property. Adding features like outdoor kitchens and fire pits are also popular options.
Cost
The cost of landscape installation varies depending on the scope of the project and the materials used. Generally, the average landscaping costs between $4,000 and $20,000. A complex front yard or backyard design with exotic plants and features will increase the price of the project. The amount of work required to get the soil ready for planting is also a factor in the final cost. In addition to removing any existing plants, the company will need to grade the beds, add topsoil and remove weeds.
In some cases, a permit may be required before starting the landscaping project. This is especially true if construction is involved, such as building a fence or resloping the land. The permit fees can vary from county to county. However, most landscaping companies will handle securing the permit for their clients.
Softscapes, or the plant-based parts of a landscape, generally cost between $5 and $24 per square foot. This includes the cost of seeding or laying sod, and the purchase of mulch to reduce moisture evaporation from the soil. Other costs that can be incurred include the cost of installing a water feature, such as a pond or man-made waterfall, which can run between $3,500 and $4,000.
Hardscaping, on the other hand, refers to the non-plant elements of a landscape, such as paved surfaces or walkways. Pavers can add a nice touch to any outdoor area, and they are available in an array of colors and styles. Bricks are popular because of their durability and low maintenance. Stone and slate are also frequently used in landscapes because of their natural beauty and strength.
A well-designed landscape can add significant value to a home, and improve its curb appeal. It can also help to preserve lawn health and save energy costs. The use of native plants can significantly cut down on watering and fertilizing costs, while trees can provide shade that can lower summertime energy bills.
Process
Adding landscape work to your property is an excellent way to improve the overall look and feel of your home. A well-maintained lawn and garden can boost curb appeal and increase your property value by up to 20 percent. It is important to choose the right type of plant material and make regular maintenance a priority to keep pests and weeds at bay.
The process of landscape installation begins with a thorough site analysis. This includes taking into account the findings of soil testing, sun exposure, wind, drainage, salt spray and other factors that will affect your landscape. The results of this analysis will be used to create a design that meets your specific needs.
This design will include hardscapes, such as patios and walkways, as well as softscapes, such as trees and grass. It should also address the amount of water your landscape requires and the amount of sunlight it gets. Once the design is complete, the Paul’s Landscaping team will meet with you to discuss it and point out any changes that you would like to make. They will then provide you with a quote to install the landscape and schedule a time to begin construction.
Once the construction phase of your landscape is underway, the team will ensure that the details of the design are carried out correctly. This can involve a lot of digging, piping and other hard work. In addition, it will involve removing any existing plants and moving them to another area of your yard. Once this step is completed, the construction crew will start preparing the ground for planting and installing the new materials.
It is important to remember that the landscape project takes time. It is important to stay organized throughout the process and not get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of work that needs to be done. If you do become overwhelmed, it is important to take a breath and re-focus your attention.
Once the project is complete, you will be able to enjoy your beautiful new outdoor space. Whether you prefer a traditional garden with flowers, shrubs and trees or something more modern, a landscape installation can be a great way to express your personality and style.
Materials
When people think of landscaping, they often envision dogwoods and azaleas, but there is much more to landscape than plants. It also includes walls, patios, outdoor lighting, walks and decks. These structures are referred to as hardscapes and make up the bulk of most residential landscape designs. Choosing the proper construction materials is vital for a successful landscaping project.
Before beginning a landscaping project, you should research the hardscape and structural options available. This can be done by browsing online, visiting a local garden center or even looking through landscape design books and house and home magazines. You can also visit a local rock yard or concrete supplier to see what is in stock. Once you have a good idea of the desired look, you can then purchase the necessary materials.
A fence is a common form of a hardscape and can be built from concrete, brick, metal chains or wood. Fencing can be a great way to divide up a property and add some visual diversity. A well-designed fence can also be a great way to enhance the beauty of the surrounding environment.
The selection of plants is one of the most important aspects of landscape installation. Plants can be used to soften the appearance of pavements, create boundaries between different areas of the property and provide color throughout the year. However, it is important to remember that some types of plants are better suited for specific climates than others. The plants that are best for the area will grow more naturally and be easier to maintain.
It is important to know the mature size of a particular plant before purchasing it. This will help to ensure that it will not outgrow its intended space. Likewise, you should not place plants too close to buildings. In fact, they should compliment a building rather than cover it. Properly spacing shrubs will also help to reduce the amount of maintenance required.
Many homeowners prefer to install their own landscaping projects rather than hiring a professional. While this can be a rewarding experience, it is important to understand the basics of the job before starting work. It is also important to know what materials are needed and how much of each you will need.
Final Touches
The landscape installation process will take some time and physical effort, so it’s a good idea to break your project into stages. This will help prevent overworking yourself or injuries, and it also allows you to monitor the progress of your landscape design.
Once the landscaping work is complete, it’s important to give your yard a chance to settle in before adding any decorative items. You may want to mulch around your new plants or add a decorative piece like a garden sign, to further tie your landscaping together. You can also plant additional container plants, decorate with outdoor furniture or add a water feature to make your new landscaping feel even more unique and special.
Decorative pieces are the final touches that can truly set your Croton, NY, home’s backyard apart from others and help your landscape design look finished and refined. From antique oak barrels used as patio furniture to reclaimed farm equipment adorning your flower beds, the options are endless for how you can personalize and beautify your backyard. For added elegance, consider installing a fountain or sculpture to accentuate your yard’s aesthetic. A wooden structure, such as a pergola or pavilion, can also define an outdoor space and help soften the look of hardscapes like a concrete patio.
