by Vernon Hee

Created on: June 13, 2008   Last Updated: May 12, 2011

When doing a landscape project it is very important to get a knowledgeable contractor. This article will address irrigation and planting aspects of your job. Generally there are three types of landscape jobs: New construction, redo, and add on.

New construction jobs are installing landscapes into new homes. This type of project is faster and easier for contractors to design and estimate because it is a clean slate and there are no tear out cost of old plants or old structures. Homeowner Hint: Get a design/build contractor and save on design cost. The cheapest and most important aspect of this project will be installing the irrigation. Make sure you dictate to the landscaper exactly what you want. Don't skimp on irrigation parts, buy name brands. Go to a local irrigation house and ask what the best and most reliable brands are. Make sure your contractor is well versed in irrigation by talking to his references. The most expensive part of your project will be the plants. So communicate with your contractor your needs. Your contractor should be well versed in common plants that grow well in the area. Make a trip to the local nursery to see what grows well in your area do not depend entirely on the contractors knowledge of plants. Ask the nursery if their sales people are certified before talking to them. Compare your list to what the contractor is installing and ask questions. Some helpful hints: Check the growth rates of the plants going in around windows, Plant shade trees around the home that will cut your AC bill, When planting grass use roots that go down deep into the ground for water conservation.

Re do and add on jobs for your home could cost you more because of what the contractor has to rip out. Hint: this is usually where contractors will negotiate price for tear out is usually all labor. When you have a contractor digging make sure you and him do your homework and check for gas, water, and electrical lines. The contractor works for you make sure he meets deadlines and check that the contractor is licensed, insured and bonded.

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