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The next time you step outside your home, you might want to take a closer look at your property's landscaping and hardscaping. Upgrading a home's landscaping from OK to W-O-W can increase overall value from 10-20%, according to research from Virginia Tech.
Landscaping 101
Landscaping goes beyond just plants and shrubs to hardscaping, which includes retaining walls, patios, walkways paver driveways and other man-made improvements to your outdoor space. There are thousands of landscaping portfolios on the web. You might try searching landscaping and hardscaping ideas.
A landscape contractor or landscape architect can work with the client to generate a detailed plan. Typically, the homeowner then hires a landscape contractor to carry out the installation. A truly professional landscaping firm can do both.
According to US News & World Report, these are just a few of the trending items in landscape and hardscape designs:
• Outdoor lighting
• Water features
• Fire pits
• Fences
• Garden paths
Enlist a professional for your hardscape or landscape project
When hiring a landscaping company, go with a licensed professional, who is experienced with all the things that contribute to the project's success. A true professional will have experience in such topics as:
• Horticulture
• Soil
• Property grading and drainage
• Irrigation
• Landscape design
• Hardscaping
It goes without saying that you need a design expert. Like any home improvement project, consider this an investment-find the right professional who is knowledgeable, skilled and eager to collaborate. Be honest- if you do not have the time or the inclination to maintain your project, ask about low-maintenance vegetation and easy-care hardscaping.
Planning your home's landscaping and hardscaping
You and your landscape contractor should expect to walk the property a few times. There's more to the project than adding; you'll want to determine if there are dying trees or overgrown shrubs that need removing. And the pro will point out areas of problematic grading, irrigation needs and items that may require just a bit of refreshing.
A great landscaping professional will look at areas that can be enhanced. Discuss a new walkway, an upgraded patio or stairway, plantings that complement the look and feel of the project, and exterior lighting. Exterior lighting not only adds to property value-it provides increased security for your family. A pro will offer advice on up-lights, down-lights and tree lights.
Phased landscaping & hardscaping project preparation
One of the most significant mistakes any homeowner can make is landscaping and hardscaping bit-by-bit with no plan. A purple petunia here, a patio there, a red maple in the middle of the front lawn. Lack of a proper design will end up in a property that looks thrown together and could negatively impact your home's value. An expert landscape designer can craft and implement plans that provides a stylized look. Keeping on track with a professionally prepared design will not only result in a stunning property-it will keep the project on a pre-established budget.
Protecting your landscaping and hardscaping project
It is important to care for your landscaping investment and keep your property looking its very best. A landscape company can help you with maintenance needs. Today's homeowners lead busy lives.
A professionally landscaped property is a sure ticket to quick resale. It gives a home curb appeal, a sense of place and value. Remember, it doesn't all have to occur at once. Many homeowners choose a 5-year plan that matures at varying intervals and allows for a variety of features over the years. Homeowners can keep to a budget-both time-wise and cost-wise-while working towards a beautiful landscape and hardscape renovation.
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Source by Marc Onorato
