Phoenix Landscaping

Top Phoenix Landscaping Trends

6 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Starting

There are 6 questions you should ask to make sure your home landscape is the new envy of the neighborhood. “Landscaping is not an event, it’s a process.” Andre Sevilla, President and founder of All Scape Landscaping in Arizona, explains during a recent interview. If you are thinking about beginning the process of landscaping in Phoenix or the surrounding are, here are the six questions you should ask.

 

1.    What will I be doing in my home landscape?

      In order to make the most of your home landscape and your investment you must determine what the end use of your landscape and yard will be.

·       Are you planning on grilling? Then you’ll want a nice patio.

·       Do you have kids? Then you’ll want a safer environment with grass and avoid thorny plants like cacti and thorny bushes.

·       Do I want to have a hot tub or swimming pool someday? Then make sure you save space in your yard for the cement foundation you will need and determine if you want that to be the focus of your yard.

·       Will I be using the yard at night? Then you need to incorporate a good lighting system into your landscape.

 

2.    What is my budget?

Although you don’t like to think about dollar signs, it’s very important that you align your expectations with your budget. How much you are willing to spend will affect the rest of the process so get out that calculator and do the numbers.

 

 

3.    What are my options for contractors in Phoenix?

“Shop around.” says Andre, “do your homework and find the right person for your job.” When it comes to Phoenix landscape contractors you have many options and each one will see your yard differently. Meet with several contractors before you make up your mind and sign any contracts. Andre at All Scape makes sure his company adds its own special touch and style to your yard so before you sign a contract, make sure you like the contractor’s style by asking to see his previous work.

·       Beware of any red flags. “If the price is too good to be true, then it probably is” warns Andre. Andre at All Scape advises that you look for reviews of the company and make sure the Phoenix landscape contractor is honest and works with integrity.

 

4.    What are the terms of the contract?

Make sure you read any contract thoroughly before signing. Be sure you have a clear understanding of any fees you will be charged and what will happen if the contractor comes across any unanticipated problems while working on your yard. Will you be charged for the added complexities of the project or will he take responsibility?

 

5.    When do I have to pay?

Know when you must make your first payment for the work to be performed. It’s common for a landscaper in Phoenix to require 50 percent down payment on large projects. Be wary if the contractor wants 100 percent upfront.

 

6.    What should I do during the landscaping project?

All Scape Landscaping advises that you try to relax and get away from time to time. Don’t try to micromanage the process. Remember that the contractor has more experience than you.  If you have done a good job up to this point choosing an honest contractor and have worked with him to design your project, then it will only drive you crazy to watch every second of the process. Review the progress from day to day and “enjoy the process” says Andre. 

 

Special thanks to Andre Sevilla at All Scape Landscaping for working with Localwork.com in the writing of this article. All Scape is one of Localwork’s premier recommended landscapers.

If you are looking for great Landscape Design Ideas, Make sure to visit http://landscape-design-ideas.net/

Top List of Features to Add to Your Home In 2010

Not being originally from Phoenix, I was in for a little surprise when I moved here from out of state.  I wondered, why don't people have grass in their front yards?  It's a desert, dumbie!  Unless you really want grass, most people just have rocks and desert bushes in their yards.  This 'desert landscape' is much easier to maintain, and more cost-effective to homeowners.  One thing I love about Phoenix landscape is the palm trees.  Only certain climates allow for palm trees, and Phoenix is one of them.      Of course you want your outdoor surroundings to be pleasing to your eyes and lifestyle.  Here in Phoenix, the weather is nice eight months of the year.  You'll want to spend time outdoors, so make sure your yard is a place you will want to spend time in.  Here is a list of features you can add to your landscape and DIY Home improvement tips

• Grass  
• Pool & Spa
• Pond
• Fountain
• Pavers
• Fire Pit
• outdoor landscape lighting

    Add a Carport, tent or shed. These make a ton of sense to add here in Phoenix.  The sun can do a lot of damage to your cars and items you own.  It is good to keep them out of the direct sun.     There are many landscaping companies in Phoenix.  Some specialize in the desert landscape look, while others are fully able to make your yard look like it could belong in any other neighborhood in America.  First, you need to decide what your needs are, and what you would really like to see in your yard.  I recommend having a pool in your yard for the summer months.  You'll pretty much live in it.  Also, having trees is not a bad idea, because they add some much needed shade.  Once you've decided what your needs are for your landscaping, do your research on what style you like.  See what your neighbors have.  Ask to see pictures from different company's websites.  Notice landscapes of shopping centers and corporate buildings when you're out on the town. 

    When you've chosen to hire a specific company, ask to see a master plan of what they have in mind. Make sure there are little surprises as far as finished product and price.  You will be happier, and so will the person doing the work.  It's a good idea to mention to the landscaper what level of maintenance you are capable of.  If you are out of town a lot and can't water thirsty plants, obviously don't have those planted in your yard.  Also, be sure to have a clear timeline between the two of you.       It may be a nuisance to have a messy yard and work area for a little while, but it's all worth it when it's done!  People from all over the country move here to Phoenix to enjoy the climate, so enjoy it yourself by improving your outdoor landscaping!

To find a top-rated Phoenix landscaper, remember to check out our featured contractors.

If you are looking for lighting ideas for your landscape, be sure to get info at the Landscape Lighting or visit our favorite Outdoor Tiki Torch guru.  There are some great ideas to spicing up your landscape.

For more landsaping ideas visit your trusted yardsurfer.

Phoenix Pools:A Simple CheckList

Installing a swimming pool in Phoenix isn't always the easiest task, and by now you realize that it is also not the cheapest thing you have recently purchased for entertainment. There are always a few things you should know before installing a swimming pool. I will go through some of the basics for you.

Space

One of the biggest factors in determining the cost of installing the swimming pool, is actually digging for the swimming pool. You will want to measure the side of your house. If you are like most homes in Phoenix, you will have 5-8 ft in space on the side of your home. This is the big cost factor. Naturally, the bigger the space is, the better that is for you. The bigger the space, the bigger the tractor to dig the hole, and thus less time spent digging. Some things to notice: is your central air unit is the way? If it is, you may want to prepare your self for a big expense to move the air unit. That is very expensive. I personally would try and find an alternative entrance.

Swimming Pool Gate

A swimming pool gate to me is very important. A lot of people won't put them in because of the landscaping look of them, but for safety and for my family having a swimming pool gate is very important. When spacing a digging place for the pool, remember to build in enough space to put a gate in. Landscape preparedness is important. Don't let your kids or someone elses be a victim of your laziness.

Adding The Right Landscaping For Your Pool

Putting in that tropical look to your landscape can really add the benefit of having a pool. Even in Phoenix where there are not as many natural green palm trees or tropical abundance, it is nice to add in your touch. Down at your local Home Depot, you will find several Palm trees for sale. I personally like the queen palms. They are not too expensive, and worth the ambiance they add to your landscape.

Adding a Hot Tub can enhance your landscape and comfort of your home.

Winterizing Those Yard Machines

Every year millions of dollars are spent on lawn and garden equipment from lawn mowers to tillers. These tools allow the home owner to make their property look its best and get the work done quickly and easily. Most home owners will purchase a large collection of lawn and garden equipment over the first five years of owning their home which typically represents a sizable investment. In order for you, the home owner, to protect your investment and ensure that next year when you reach for that weed whacker that it runs its best it’s very important to take the proper steps to winterize your gas powered equipment.

Any equipment with an engine, from your gas powered blower to you lawnmower, should be winterized in a similar fashion. First, wash the equipment and clean off any dirt or debris followed by thoroughly drying the equipment to prevent rust. Second, drain the gas from the reservoir either by pouring it out or running the piece of equipment till empty. (Please note that you may also purchase fuel additives that may be mixed in the reservoir if you prefer). Third, remove the spark plug and place a few drops of oil into the cylinder and then pull the starter cord slowly three or four times to lightly coat the piston. This step prevents rust from forming over the winter months. And finally, look through the socket where you removed your plug and have someone pull the starter cord slowly until the piston is at top dead center (when the piston is closets to the opening of the socket). Replace your spark plug and store your piece of equipment with piece of mind that your investment will be protected over the cold winter months.

If you are looking for specific Phoenix landscaping ideas, make sure you check out our tips and advice just for different Phoenix landscapes

 

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