Are you thinking about adding landscape design to your Wilmington, Delaware, home? Landscaping can transform your home's outdoor space into a beautiful and functional extension of your living area. In Wilmington, Delaware, landscape design and installation costs vary widely based on several factors. This blog post will cover critical aspects like landscaping costs, custom landscape design, and maintenance and explain just what impacts cost the most.
What is the Most Expensive Part of Landscaping in Wilmington, Delaware?
For many people, the actual cost of landscape design is the first question that pops up when mulling over a custom landscape design. The most expensive part of landscape design and construction typically involves the creation of custom hardscaping features that require extensive design and construction. At First Class Lawn Care, we believe that you should invest in the features that matter to you.
Outdoor Kitchens
An outdoor kitchen can elevate your space, providing somewhere to cook, mingle, and bring life outdoors. It is also one of the more expensive parts of landscaping, although completely optional. On average, the cost of outdoor kitchens in Wilmington, DE, can range from $17,000 to $20,000, excluding appliances, utilities, or drop-ins.
Pergolas
Adding a pergola to your backyard as an upgrade can also constitute a major part of your landscape design cost. On average, pergola costs in Wilmington, Delaware, range from $8,000 to $30,000, depending on size and materials. The range here is fairly wide, allowing you to choose what features are important to you and invest in them.
Your Choices
Ultimately, the most expensive components heavily depend on your choices regarding size, materials, and even technology, directly influencing your overall landscaping costs.
The best part about investing in landscape design is deciding what elements to invest in and what to ignore. Your money works for you, creating a space for growth and thriving.
What is a Good Landscaping Budget for Wilmington, Delaware?
A good landscaping budget should ideally balance your vision for your outdoor space and what you can reasonably afford. In Wilmington, Delaware, you should begin with a budget that is within your means while determining landscape design costs as an investment.
If you want to grade your yard and plant trees, you need a much smaller budget than if you’re adding hardscaping. Although landscape design and installation costs vary based on project size, a smaller project will necessarily have a smaller budget than a large one.
Our process lets you identify what factors you want to add to your budget and what you want to avoid.
Factors in Your Budget
Here are a few more elements of your landscape budget that can help you discern a “good” landscaping budget for your project.
Grading & Drainage
Grading and drainage are the least glamorous and most important parts of landscape design. On average, the cost for grading and drainage in Wilmington, Delaware, is between $2,500 and $4,000, depending on the severity of the issues and the size of the space.
Sod Installation
Sod installation is another dull and earthy part of your landscape design that is also important to the health and well-being of your backyard.
It's no surprise that the size of your yard and the type of sod used impact the price here.
Retaining Walls
Retaining walls are one of the best features you can add to your landscape design and maintenance budget because they are both practical and beautiful. As a landscape designer in Wilmington, Delaware, we also combine the cost of grading and drainage with the cost of your retaining wall. Once again, the size of the project and the materials used impact the cost of the retaining wall.
Walkways and Patios
In Wilmington, Delaware, the average walkway cost is $3,000 to $5,000, and the average patio cost is $11,500 to $17,500. The variance here is based on the project scope and depends on how much material and labor is used and the materials used.
Standard pavers are the most affordable, and flagstone is a popular option. Porcelain is a beautiful option that raises costs more than other materials.
Landscape Lighting
Landscape lighting adds beauty and even a touch of safety to your backyard. The cost of landscape lighting varies based on the side of your yard, the number of lights used, and the complexity of the design. Chat with your landscape design contractor to see what option is best for you!
How Do I Keep My Landscaping Costs Down in Wilmington, Delaware?
Now that we’ve discussed the average cost ranges, the question looms: How do we keep costs down? The key is to focus on what’s essential, acknowledge what is most expensive and most necessary, and build a plan with your trusted Wilmington, Delaware, landscape designer.
Problem Solve First
Let your landscaping cost work for you. If your home desperately needs grading and drainage, invest in that first! If you can, add a retainer wall for an added benefit and lump those costs together!
Start with Plants
While it is an obvious and beautiful landscape addition, planting trees and other plants is one of the minor expenses in custom landscape design and installation. The cost varies based on the number and size of trees and plants needed, but it is still an excellent way of upgrading your backyard.
Work with a Proven Professional
A surprise cost of landscape design and installation comes from working with a landscaping contractor with less experience than needed or standing behind its work. By working with landscapers in Wilmington, Delaware, who understand the area, soil, and custom landscape designs your home needs, you can keep unexpected costs at a minimum.
Added Features
Additionally, when you opt for added features like stairs or landings, these are often accompanied by the need for features like walkways. This adds cost you might not have factored in when planning out your wishlist.
Does Landscaping Increase Home Value?
Yes, effective landscaping can significantly increase the value of your home. In Wilmington, Delaware, well-considered landscape design and installation can boost property values by enhancing curb appeal and adding usable outdoor space. Investing in landscape design and installation creates an outdoor space that is just as inviting as your house itself. This not only adds curb appeal but also increases the value of your home and attracts potential buyers who want to continue to invest in your property.
What Type of Landscaping Adds Value in Wilmington, Delaware?
Certain types of landscaping are particularly effective at adding value to a home. In Wilmington, Delaware, landscape design elements that blend both aesthetic appeal and functional space are highly valued. These include:
- Pergolas
- Outdoor Kitchens and Fire Pits
- Walkways and Patios
- Retaining Walls
- Unlike younger plants that may take years to grow, mature trees and shrubs can instantly improve your property's appearance quickly.
Your Wilmington, Delaware Landscape Designer
At First Class Lawn Care, we understand that landscape design and installation are important investments in your Wilmington, Delaware, home. We leverage our years of experience in landscaping, the region, and client service to give you the best experience possible.
We treat your investment as if it were our own, guiding you through the process and helping you make the decisions that align with your budget and goals.
Contact First Class Lawn Care today to see if a landscape design project is the right choice for you!
