Why Central Ohio Homeowners Should Think Twice Before Going It Alone
Are you thinking about upgrading your outdoor space in Central Ohio with a new patio, fire pit, retaining wall, or custom landscaping features? At first glance, tackling the job yourself might seem like a great way to save money. However, the truth is, DIY landscaping often costs more time, effort, and money than people expect. While you may save a small percentage on labor, the trade-offs in time, potential mistakes, and added stress can outweigh the initial savings. At Flores Landscaping & Patio, we’ve seen time and time again how professional help can lead to smoother projects, better results, and even long-term savings.
Factors Influencing the Cost of DIY Landscaping in Central Ohio
Several factors influence the cost of a DIY landscaping project. The size of the area, the materials chosen, and the tools needed all play important roles in the final expense.
Size & Scope of Your Project
The bigger the project, the higher the cost. A small garden bed may require only a few bags of soil and a few plants. However, a large backyard makeover typically requires more soil, plants, mulch, and possibly hardscaping materials such as stones or bricks.
Complex projects with features such as patios, retaining walls, or water elements increase costs. More time and materials are necessary. Knowing the exact size and the planned features helps estimate costs more accurately.
Material Costs & Local Pricing
Material prices in Central Ohio vary by season and store. For example, mulch and topsoil often cost more in spring and summer, the busiest months for landscaping. Native plants may be cheaper and easier to maintain than exotic varieties.
Purchasing from local suppliers can reduce shipping costs. Wholesale suppliers might offer better prices for bulk materials. Prices for items such as pavers, gravel, and plants vary widely, so comparing local options can help you save money.
Labor, Equipment and Tool Expenses
Doing the work yourself saves on labor costs but may increase expenses for tools and equipment. Basic tools include shovels, rakes, and gloves. More advanced tasks may require power tools, such as tillers or saws.
Renting equipment can be cheaper than buying if the tools are only needed briefly. Some equipment rental shops in Central Ohio offer daily or weekly rates. Factoring in these costs is important to avoid surprises.
Estimating Your DIY Landscape Budget
Estimating costs for a DIY landscape project involves closely examining materials such as plants and soil, as well as hardscape items like patios or walkways. Knowing the price of each helps avoid surprises and keeps the project on track.
Sourcing Plants, Soil and Mulch
Plants in Central Ohio can vary in price depending on the type and size. Perennials might cost between $10 to $30 each, while trees range from $50 to $200 or more. Native plants often cost less and grow well in local soil.
Soil and mulch prices depend on quantity. A cubic yard of topsoil usually costs $30 to $50. Mulch costs about $3 to $5 per bag. Buying in bulk reduces the price but requires more storage space.
Remember to add in delivery fees if materials are heavy or need large quantities. Local nurseries and garden centers are ideal for certain plants, but big-box stores may offer better deals on bulk soil and mulch.
Estimating Hardscape and Structural Elements
Hardscape items, such as pavers, stepping stones, or retaining wall blocks, significantly impact costs. Concrete pavers can cost $2 to $5 each, and purchasing by the square foot typically ranges from $10 to $20. Larger projects increase material and tool rental costs.
Structural elements, such as fences, decks, or pergolas, can create significant expenses. For example, a basic wooden fence may cost $10 to $25 per linear foot. Tool rentals, such as a compactor, average $40 to $70 per day.
Including extra supplies, such as sand, gravel, or landscape fabric, is important. These materials help with drainage and weed control but add to the budget. Estimating these costs upfront helps prevent overspending.
Hidden & Unexpected Expenses
DIY landscaping often involves costs that are not planned for at the start. These can add up quickly and impact the overall budget. Understanding common extra fees can help you prepare for these unexpected expenses.
Permit and Disposal Fees
In Central Ohio, certain landscaping projects require permits. These permits can cost between $50 and $300, depending on the size and type of work. For example, building retaining walls or adding a new patio often needs a permit.
Disposing of old materials like soil, mulch, or broken concrete also comes with fees. Renting a dumpster or paying landfill fees can range from $150 to $400. Many homeowners underestimate how much waste will be generated during a project.
Failing to get permits can lead to fines or having to redo parts of the project, which adds more cost. It’s important to check local regulations before starting.
Watering, Maintenance and Repair Costs
New plants, grass, and trees need frequent watering at first. In Central Ohio’s climate, this might mean 2-3 times per week during dry months, increasing water bills by 10-30%.
Maintenance tools like pruners, hoses, drip irrigation kits, or lawn mowers can cost from $50 to $300 if not already owned. These are essential for keeping the landscape healthy.
Repairs to fix mistakes or damage from weather can also cost extra. For example, replacing dead plants or fixing erosion could add hundreds of dollars throughout the first year. Planning for maintenance saves money in the long run.
Why Professional Landscaping Is The Smart Investment
Hiring a trusted landscaping company in Central Ohio communities means you’re getting:
- Experienced craftsmen who know how to do the job right the first time
- Project management that keeps your timeline on track
- Access to the right tools and high-quality materials
- Warranties and guarantees that protect your investment
- Design services that align beauty, function, and budget
- Compliance with local regulations and permits
From Delaware to Dublin, Powell to New Albany, our team has transformed countless outdoor spaces with custom patios, retaining walls, walkways, fire features, and more.
Save Time, Ditch Stress & Enjoy the Results
At Flores Landscaping & Patio, we’re proud to serve homeowners throughout Central Ohio with expert landscaping and hardscaping services. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy backyard fire pit or a full outdoor kitchen and patio, we have the skills and experience to make it happen—without the DIY headaches.
Call us today at (614) 893-3881 or visit floreslandscapes.com to schedule your complimentary assessment.
