.Given the lovely, mild winter we have had in Calgary, it’s actually not too early to start thinking about your spring landscaping projects. In fact, getting a head start on planning can actually help you save a lot of money.
Mirage has over three decades of experience in the Calgary landscaping business, and we are always working to meet and exceed our clients’ expectations. Our portfolio of projects showshow hard we try to achieve remarkable results every time. What it doesn’t say, however, is just how hard we strive to keep our costs down and meet your quote with the same thorough and exacting approach.
What You Should Spend on Landscaping
The rule of thumb when it comes to new construction is to expect to spend 10 to 15 per cent of the total single building budget on the surrounding landscaping. On a $300,000 home this represents a sizable $30,000 to $45,000 commitment of resources to this phase of your homebuilding project.
It is important to remember that a well-landscaped yard can add up to 20 percent to your home’s resale value. So as long as you spend less than that it’s an investment well worth making.
We don’t necessarily believe that you need to invest that much to upscale your already-existing outdoor property. At Mirage, we have the experience necessary to provide lots of cost planning tipsto remember when it comes to your landscaping. Contact us now so we can start sourcing the supplies you need. The more time we have to find the highest-quality materials for your Calgary landscaping projects, the better value we can provide. To start, we can always “phase in” projects over several years if that is more affordable, or makes more sense, for your particular situation.
The Materials and How They Can Help You Save
“Hardscape” materials are the raw materials you will use to build your yard or garden. Remember that installation tends to cost only a fraction of what you’ll pay for the materials, so the lion’s share of your budget should be allotted to your hardscaping.
Hardscaping including projects include laying pathways, positioning patios, and building retaining walls. After the initial expense, these can save you in the long run by reducing the amount of green space you need to take care of. As well, retaining walls are wonderful for “flattening” out Calgary’s often-sloped yards. This allows you to be even more creative with your planting, and also to waste far less water when watering. Sloped yards inevitable result in a lot of runoffs, and retaining walls are an attractive way to combat this situation.
We will also only plant trees, shrubs, flowers, and other perennials that are well-suited to the Calgary climate. This will ensure they last through our wild weather variations. We can also plant to assist with keeping your house cool in the summer. We can place trees to block the harsh rays of the sun and shade your home so that you can take double advantage of your Calgary landscaping.
Hidden Savings
By hiring us early in the process, you not only get the full benefit of our extensive design experience, you get to pick our brains about the possibilities to save money where it isn’t readily apparent. The longer or harder we have to work to execute upon your vision, the prouder we are of the result. We are always happy to discuss all the options for your build. For example, what about laid stone vs. pavers? And, how much irrigation do you really need?
- A well-laid out, professionally designed landscape will require less maintenance and enhance your home’s curb appeal, both of which help you generate a positive return on your investment.
- Implementation: hiring a professional to install your hardscape materials, plants, and landscape features is essential. It will complete the look and ensure you get value for your investment through expert presentation and outstanding attention to detail.
Mirage Landscaping of Calgary is a premier one-stop shop for full-service commercial and residential landscaping design, construction, and maintenance services