There are many ways you can improve your yard for spring, and incorporating a
little "green" into your landscape is a great place to start.
Here are some tips and ideas on how to make your yard more eco-friendly:
If you try any of these or other tips for having a "greener" yard please let us know how it works for you!
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Wednesday, April 16, 2014
How to make your Yard "Green" for Spring
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
How much is it going to cost?
Ever thought about having some work done on your home and looked around online trying to find out how much it will cost you, only to come up with drastically different or vague answers? So you suck it up and schedule some estimates to get an exact price. Then, when you get the estimates your eyes pop out of your head because the numbers on the paper weren't what you were expecting.
Yep! Us too! Well, the reality is that pricing can vary for a number of different reasons. We get phone calls all the time asking for an approximate price over the phone, but it is really difficult to do this type of pricing for most projects because of how different factors affect the cost. Also, sometimes a small detail to you (the property owner) may be a big detail to us (the contractor).
It's good to go into an estimate knowing an approximate price for the work you are considering and having a budget set aside for that approximate amount, but don't be married to that amount, because, like I said, prices vary!
I want to demystify our pricing to you, so you can have a better idea of why our prices are the way they are. Here are some factors that will contribute to the cost of the job.
1. Location, location, location: Just like the cost of your home (i.e. a large mansion in NoWhere, Nebraska (no offense Nebraskans and much love to you) will be substantially less expensive than the same house in New York City), construction and landscaping prices will vary based on the area as well. Cost of living, cost of gas, property values all factor into pricing either directly or indirectly. For example, a company that has to pay higher prices for gas, materials, utilities and office space will have to offset those costs in their pricing. Thus, construction costs in some locations will be inherently cheaper than others.
2. Quality of materials: It might be helpful to ask your contractor to break down the costs of materials vs. labor. Obviously sometimes quality costs more. Make sure your contractor specifies the type of materials that will be used and that they are of high standard. This could also be a way to save money if you are willing to sacrifice slightly on material quality, again depending on the project.
3. Access: A tree that can be accessed from the road will be easier to trim than a tree that you have to hike a mile to get to. The time and energy it takes to transport material and labor to a site are factored into the price, so that a site with difficult access can be significantly more costly.
4. Liability: Liability insurance is expensive for tree service and construction professionals. If there are power lines or another structure that may be easily damaged nearby our risk for damage or injury increases and thus this is factored into the price.
5. Labor: How much would someone have to pay you to haul heavy bricks in the freezing cold for 10 hours a day. We pay our guys a fair wage, which means well over the minimum wage. While some companies may try to cut costs by hiring unskilled laborers at a low wage, we know the value of a quality worker who knows his trade.
6. Overhead: It costs a lot to run a business the right way: with appropriate licenses and insurance. And for good reason-- it protects you, the property owner. Hiring a company without licenses and insurance may be cheaper in the short term, but it may end up costing you in the long run because you will end up being responsible for any damage done to your property or anyone who is injured on your property.
Of course some prices are based on square footage or linear footage, but I hope that this posts helps you understand why prices vary between contractors. Understanding our pricing will help you get the best value for your project.
Yep! Us too! Well, the reality is that pricing can vary for a number of different reasons. We get phone calls all the time asking for an approximate price over the phone, but it is really difficult to do this type of pricing for most projects because of how different factors affect the cost. Also, sometimes a small detail to you (the property owner) may be a big detail to us (the contractor).
It's good to go into an estimate knowing an approximate price for the work you are considering and having a budget set aside for that approximate amount, but don't be married to that amount, because, like I said, prices vary!
I want to demystify our pricing to you, so you can have a better idea of why our prices are the way they are. Here are some factors that will contribute to the cost of the job.
1. Location, location, location: Just like the cost of your home (i.e. a large mansion in NoWhere, Nebraska (no offense Nebraskans and much love to you) will be substantially less expensive than the same house in New York City), construction and landscaping prices will vary based on the area as well. Cost of living, cost of gas, property values all factor into pricing either directly or indirectly. For example, a company that has to pay higher prices for gas, materials, utilities and office space will have to offset those costs in their pricing. Thus, construction costs in some locations will be inherently cheaper than others.
2. Quality of materials: It might be helpful to ask your contractor to break down the costs of materials vs. labor. Obviously sometimes quality costs more. Make sure your contractor specifies the type of materials that will be used and that they are of high standard. This could also be a way to save money if you are willing to sacrifice slightly on material quality, again depending on the project.
3. Access: A tree that can be accessed from the road will be easier to trim than a tree that you have to hike a mile to get to. The time and energy it takes to transport material and labor to a site are factored into the price, so that a site with difficult access can be significantly more costly.
4. Liability: Liability insurance is expensive for tree service and construction professionals. If there are power lines or another structure that may be easily damaged nearby our risk for damage or injury increases and thus this is factored into the price.
5. Labor: How much would someone have to pay you to haul heavy bricks in the freezing cold for 10 hours a day. We pay our guys a fair wage, which means well over the minimum wage. While some companies may try to cut costs by hiring unskilled laborers at a low wage, we know the value of a quality worker who knows his trade.
6. Overhead: It costs a lot to run a business the right way: with appropriate licenses and insurance. And for good reason-- it protects you, the property owner. Hiring a company without licenses and insurance may be cheaper in the short term, but it may end up costing you in the long run because you will end up being responsible for any damage done to your property or anyone who is injured on your property.
Of course some prices are based on square footage or linear footage, but I hope that this posts helps you understand why prices vary between contractors. Understanding our pricing will help you get the best value for your project.
Saturday, February 1, 2014
What New Home Buyers miss that could cost big.
I have been watching a lot of HGTV lately. If you are not familiar with the network it is sort of like the home improvement channel. A lot of the shows focus on home buyers finding the perfect homes or home owners renovating their property. Watching the shows I started picking up on things first time home buyers look for (things I could totally relate to when we were looking to buy our first home) and things they miss (things that I wish I had thought about when we were looking to buy our first home.)
Most first time home buyers go in looking at aesthetics. Are there granite counter tops? Stainless Steel appliances? Walk-in closets? However, the more important details that can have a big impact on living in the house, are often over looked. Here is my list of big items that you should consider when purchasing a home.
1. HVAC- I once rented in a small house where the heating bill for one month was $1000. I have also lived in a small house that used diesel heating, which cost about $600/month for heating. That's a lot of money to burn during winter months that many home buyers overlook. Check out a home's HVAC system before you buy. Is it new? Is it central air, diesel or gas? It can make a big difference in the comfort of your home and the price you pay through the lifetime of the house.
2. Roofing- Roofs are another big ticket item. Replacing a roof usually takes at least $5000 and that is for a small home. Check to see if the roof is in good condition, or have the inspector check. Its never fun to shell out a few thousand big ones for home improvement a few years after you purchase the house.
3. Landscaping- Curb appeal is a big factor in real estate and while many want a nice big back yard, few first timers think about the work it will take to maintain the yard. Regular, mowing, trimming, and weeding is the bare minimum for a landscaped backyard. In general hardscaping, gravel and artificial turf are easier to take care of. Make sure you budget to hire a landscaper or budget time to do it yourself. Also check for drainage issues which can be very costly over time, especially if it results in flooding.
4. Environmental factor- Ever looked at a home with solar panels? How about a home with a charging station for electric cars. As our world changes, I think choosing a more environmentally friendly home will make a big difference. A lot of "green" home factors also tend to save you money which can be a huge plus. Even something as small as environmentally friendly windows and insulation can make a big difference in the overall cost of your home.
5. LOCATION, location, location- Any realtor will tell you that you can change just about anything about your house except for the location. That is why location is such a big deal. Do you want a home close to work, close to the city, in a good school district? Are homes in the area selling for more or less money than the house you are buying? Make sure you know what area you are getting into before you buy.
These are some key points to look into when considering buying a home. Can you think of anything I missed? Anything that you thought of AFTER you bought your home that ended up costing big?
Most first time home buyers go in looking at aesthetics. Are there granite counter tops? Stainless Steel appliances? Walk-in closets? However, the more important details that can have a big impact on living in the house, are often over looked. Here is my list of big items that you should consider when purchasing a home.
1. HVAC- I once rented in a small house where the heating bill for one month was $1000. I have also lived in a small house that used diesel heating, which cost about $600/month for heating. That's a lot of money to burn during winter months that many home buyers overlook. Check out a home's HVAC system before you buy. Is it new? Is it central air, diesel or gas? It can make a big difference in the comfort of your home and the price you pay through the lifetime of the house.
2. Roofing- Roofs are another big ticket item. Replacing a roof usually takes at least $5000 and that is for a small home. Check to see if the roof is in good condition, or have the inspector check. Its never fun to shell out a few thousand big ones for home improvement a few years after you purchase the house.
3. Landscaping- Curb appeal is a big factor in real estate and while many want a nice big back yard, few first timers think about the work it will take to maintain the yard. Regular, mowing, trimming, and weeding is the bare minimum for a landscaped backyard. In general hardscaping, gravel and artificial turf are easier to take care of. Make sure you budget to hire a landscaper or budget time to do it yourself. Also check for drainage issues which can be very costly over time, especially if it results in flooding.
4. Environmental factor- Ever looked at a home with solar panels? How about a home with a charging station for electric cars. As our world changes, I think choosing a more environmentally friendly home will make a big difference. A lot of "green" home factors also tend to save you money which can be a huge plus. Even something as small as environmentally friendly windows and insulation can make a big difference in the overall cost of your home.
5. LOCATION, location, location- Any realtor will tell you that you can change just about anything about your house except for the location. That is why location is such a big deal. Do you want a home close to work, close to the city, in a good school district? Are homes in the area selling for more or less money than the house you are buying? Make sure you know what area you are getting into before you buy.
These are some key points to look into when considering buying a home. Can you think of anything I missed? Anything that you thought of AFTER you bought your home that ended up costing big?
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Beautiful Winter Landscape
Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr! Its freezing outside. As you snuggle up by the fire, your yard is covered in a soft blanket of snow, and your now protruding belly is covered in a soft blanket of cookie crumbs. While we can't help you with your eating habits, we can give you tips on how to make your yard look great four seasons out of the year. Here are 4 simple techniques to get the most out of your yard in these frigid temps:
1. Evergreens- Probably the most obvious tip. Nothing makes your yard look more festive than a lush green spruce. But think outside the box! Evergreens come in different varieties and shades (some are yellow). Nellie Stevens and Leyland Cypresses are good choices that don't get too large. The American Holly and Magnolia are two native flat leaved evergreens that can add texture to your landscape.
2. Add color with winter flowers and berries- Your winter landscape doesn't have to be all brown and green. Some trees and shrubs produce bright colored flowers and berries in the winter. The aforementioned holly, produces festive red berries. Camellia, wintersweet and flowering quince are all winter flowering species that can brighten up your yard.
3. Mix in deciduous textures- Even though they may not be green, the texture and shape of unique deciduous trees can add interest to your yard. Trees like beech wood and birch have papery peeling bark that can create visual contrast to the lush evergreens and smooth white snow.
4. Accessorize- Hardscapes, planters and unique non-plant features can give your yard a unique character. A striking pergola or trellis can create an interesting focal point. A firepit or outdoor fireplace can be a great place to roast marshmallows for an outdoor gathering while also enhancing the appearance of your winter yard. If you are on a tight budget a few accessories like planters or a wheelbarrow can spruce of the look of your outdoor space.
I hope these tips help you enjoy your yard all year long!
Thursday, December 19, 2013
Winter Landscaping Checklist
Wondering how to prepare your yard for the cold?
Here is a simple checklist to make sure you are prepared for winter weather:
Here is a simple checklist to make sure you are prepared for winter weather:
- Clean Gutters
- Check roof for leaks or missing shingles or flashing
- Trim shrubs and trees
- Leaf clean-up
- Mulch flower beds and trees
- Remove dead trees
- Move unseasonable potted plants indoors.
Happy Holidays!
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
How to save money on your Construction or Landscape Project
Who doesn't love a good deal? Landscape and construction projects can have a great return on investment when it comes to resale of your home, but they also can cost a lot of money to get the job done right. That's why I came up with a few tips to make sure you get the most bang for your buck. Here are 5 simple tips you can use to save big on your next project:
1. Set a budget:
If you know how much you would like to spend, let the contractor know. Most legitimate contractors will do what they can to work within your budget and may even throw in some extras to sweeten the deal.
2. Ask for contractor selection: Sometimes contractors can get a great deal on a particular plant or already have a certain variety of material in stock. Because of this they are able to discount a certain material by as much as 50%. If the contractor has surplus material from another project, they may be able to offer it to you on a discount as long as you are not picky about the color or type.
3. Seasonal pricing specials: For contractors, winter is the slow season. That is why construction prices drop significantly in the colder months. From November to March ask your contractor if they are willing to offer a discount for the winter season.
4. Look for Coupons: Many contractors offer coupons online or in local papers. You can also get discounts by signing up for a monthly newsletter. Search around so you are sure to get the best price.
5. Bundle Projects: If you have several projects you would like to get done, ask the contractor if they are willing to give you a discount for packaging the projects together. Many will!
I hope these tips help you save money on your next project. Feel free to give us a call 301-603-1080 or visit us online to set up an estimate.
1. Set a budget:
If you know how much you would like to spend, let the contractor know. Most legitimate contractors will do what they can to work within your budget and may even throw in some extras to sweeten the deal.
2. Ask for contractor selection: Sometimes contractors can get a great deal on a particular plant or already have a certain variety of material in stock. Because of this they are able to discount a certain material by as much as 50%. If the contractor has surplus material from another project, they may be able to offer it to you on a discount as long as you are not picky about the color or type.
3. Seasonal pricing specials: For contractors, winter is the slow season. That is why construction prices drop significantly in the colder months. From November to March ask your contractor if they are willing to offer a discount for the winter season.
4. Look for Coupons: Many contractors offer coupons online or in local papers. You can also get discounts by signing up for a monthly newsletter. Search around so you are sure to get the best price.
5. Bundle Projects: If you have several projects you would like to get done, ask the contractor if they are willing to give you a discount for packaging the projects together. Many will!
I hope these tips help you save money on your next project. Feel free to give us a call 301-603-1080 or visit us online to set up an estimate.
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Focus on Concrete
So you are interested in installing a new walkway, driveway, retaining wall or patio and you are looking into concrete. Concrete is one of the most affordable and frequently used building material out there.
First, let's talk about what concrete is. concrete is a mixture of six different components: Cement, Coarse Aggregate, Fine Aggregate, Water, Fly Ash, and Chemical Admixtures. Concrete can be made into different types depending on the mix ratios and properties of the concrete. For example, a lower water to cement ratio is generally better because it gives the concrete less permeability and is better resistant to the elements. The PSI (strength) of the concrete can also be manipulated. In general we recommend at least 4000 PSI for a driveway and at least 3500 for structures like walkways that will not sustain a lot of force. The chemical admixtures can also be changed to extend or limit setting time and to increase freeze/thaw durability.
You don't have to settle with boring old white sidewalk concrete either. Concrete can be stamped, stained and sculpted to resemble more expensive building materials like pavers and natural stone. Concrete can also be made permeable for a greener option.
While concrete is a relatively strong and durable material, one of its downfalls is that is does tend to crack over time and with changes in the weather. Although the mixture and number of joints can be altered to help prevent cracks, even well installed concrete may crack over the years. However, the versatility and relative low cost of concrete may outweigh this con for many looking to install hardscaping.
If you are interested in installing a concrete structure, give us a call to set up an estimate and discuss your options. 301-603-1080.
First, let's talk about what concrete is. concrete is a mixture of six different components: Cement, Coarse Aggregate, Fine Aggregate, Water, Fly Ash, and Chemical Admixtures. Concrete can be made into different types depending on the mix ratios and properties of the concrete. For example, a lower water to cement ratio is generally better because it gives the concrete less permeability and is better resistant to the elements. The PSI (strength) of the concrete can also be manipulated. In general we recommend at least 4000 PSI for a driveway and at least 3500 for structures like walkways that will not sustain a lot of force. The chemical admixtures can also be changed to extend or limit setting time and to increase freeze/thaw durability.
You don't have to settle with boring old white sidewalk concrete either. Concrete can be stamped, stained and sculpted to resemble more expensive building materials like pavers and natural stone. Concrete can also be made permeable for a greener option.
While concrete is a relatively strong and durable material, one of its downfalls is that is does tend to crack over time and with changes in the weather. Although the mixture and number of joints can be altered to help prevent cracks, even well installed concrete may crack over the years. However, the versatility and relative low cost of concrete may outweigh this con for many looking to install hardscaping.
If you are interested in installing a concrete structure, give us a call to set up an estimate and discuss your options. 301-603-1080.
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