Lawns and Gardens
Landscaping Can Provide Big Return on Investment
By
Sep 18, 2005, 23:36

(NUI) - According to a Clemson University study, landscaping around your home can provide 100 percent or more return on investment. The Clemson study reports that the initial cost for landscaping is about 10 percent of the home's value, while a quality landscaped yard will provide a 13 percent to 17 percent increase in resale value.

However, a homeowner's ability to ensure this kind of return on investment depends heavily on selecting the right landscape contractor and using quality materials like interlocking concrete pavements or segmental retaining walls. Homeowners should consider several factors when selecting their landscape contractor.

* Determine the scope of the project. Work closely with the contractor to ensure your vision is understood and implemented. You can also ask the contractor to design landscaping. Many landscape contractors have in-house landscape design services.

* Make sure your contractor is properly licensed, bonded and insured for the work proposed. Many regions require special licenses to conduct the earthwork and grading operations necessary for retaining wall construction or to perform the plumbing operations necessary for irrigation and water features. The landscape contractor should also have proper insurance for both liability and worker's compensation and should provide proof upon request.

* Research your landscape contractor. Follow up on all references provided. Make sure the contractor has sufficient experience on projects of similar size and scope. Make sure the contractor has experience with the products being installed. Ask if the contractor has been certified or trained by the product supplier and if the contractor has achieved recognition from a local or national trade association for demonstrating professionalism and quality. Such credentials are provided by the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute for paver installation and by the National Concrete Masonry Association for segmental retaining wall installation.

* Seek guarantees from the landscape contractor. Many landscape contractors or nurseries will guarantee plant materials for periods up to one year and will guarantee hardscape installations, like interlocking concrete pavements and segmental retaining walls, for periods up to or exceeding one year. It is also important to find out what is covered under the guarantee. For instance, it may not cover poor performance resulting from misuse or lack of basic maintenance.

Taking these few simple steps ensures that time in your new landscaped yard is spent relaxing and not worrying about your investment. For more information about landscaping, visit www.ncma.org.

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