Before
AfterBy Debbie Krubsack
Back in the midwest, we can put down some soil, add seed, cover with straw, wait for rain...and we'll get a lawn. Then through the years we build our flower beds and plant some trees.
Living in Southern California it's a bit different--or so we found. A jack hammer was actually required to break up the ground, and a sprinkler system and series of drains needed to be installed. It didn't take us long to figure out we'd need to hire this job done. But where to begin?
Here's what we learned:
- Determine if your property is located in the county or the city; restrictions vary accordingly.
- Live with the space for at least six months. Peak out the window and ask yourself what you want to see in the space. The answer may change during this time. (Your HOA may require you to install your landscape sooner.)
- If you truly desire a particular feature, stick with it. You should be able to find a reputable landscaper who can help bring your dreams to reality. Several landscapers told us we could not have a fireplace and insisted on installing a water feature instead. We stood firm.
- Check with friends and acquaintances for referrals. Call a builders’ supply to get recommendations.
- Consider hiring one contractor for the hardscape and another for the landscape material (also referred to as ‘softscape.’) Typically contractor's expertise is in one or the other.
- Consult Green Nursery (corner of San Fernando Road & Cinema Drive) before settling on your plants. Richard Green has been working and residing in the SCV for years and is known as our local expert. Green Nursery stocks an excellent supply of high quality plants.
- Look at the materials you are considering. You can actually walk on tiles, pavers and stone at American Builders Supply. We found the staff to be very helpful and patient, even allowing us to take samples home on loan. Drive around the neighborhoods and see how materials look once they are installed. Several suggestions were made to us, but when we saw flagstone installed, we knew this was the look we wanted.
- When you meet with a landscaper and he shows you photos of work he has done, ask for the phone numbers of the homeowners as references.
- Look for the best value in your bid, not just the lowest price.
- Check the contractor’s references as well as his license at the California Contractors State License Board.
- Once you have confidence in your contractor, ask him for his suggestions. We initially planned to install Saltillo tile, but learned it may not hold up well to the winter frosts in our valley.
- Realize that even in the best of circumstances, there will be some problems or delays. It is important to choose an even-tempered contractor that you can work with. Remember, things will happen beyond human control and if you have done your homework, you have found a contractor who will work through those issues with you.
The effort will be worth the outcome and soon you will be sitting back and enjoying your dream!
Take Some Classes on Landscaping
Home and Garden Classes
There are several opportunities to take classes on this subject within the SCV. It's not a bad idea to get a bit of an education so you can at least talk your landscaper's language!
Resources
Castaic Lake Water Agency Landscape Education Program
California Contractors State License Board
College of the Canyons Home & Garden Classes
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