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THE WARREN-WATCHUNG CONNECTION
APRIL/MAY 2017
It's your home . It's your life . Make it better with Jaeger Kitchens ! Madison 133 Main Street (973) 377-1000 Middlesex 500 Bound Brook Road (732) 968-3555 Stirling 1238 Valley Road (908) 647-1239 Union 2322 Morris Avenue (908) 686-0070 www.JaegerKitchens.com There are a lot of “landscapers” or “masonry con- tractors” in the central New Jersey area, but they may have very different skills and professional qualifications than a Landscape Design/Build firm. When choosing the right company for your home, it’s essential to hire a professional that pro- vides the services and experience you need. Here are three important things to look for. Type of Company The type of landscape company you choose to work with can have a tremendous impact on the overall construction experience you encounter. While “landscapers” and “masonry contractors” may be skilled in the individual services they offer, a landscape design/build firm is used to design- ing, as well as constructing both landscape and hardscape work. A few advantages that a true Landscape Design/Build firm will offer are: A design experience that helps a customer visu- alize their dream plan for their entire property. An experience that integrates both landscape and hardscape into a plan to provide better aesthetics and functionality as well as prevent construction oversights. Turnkey solutions where only one company is needed to implement all facets of design and construction. Less chances of errors/construction problems because the same company will be designing and installing the project. Landscape and Hardscape Experience When hiring a landscape design/build company for your home, make sure they have significant landscape and hardscape experience. Many land- scape problems only begin to show in subsequent years. You do not want to have to hire other con- tractors post-construction to remedy construction flaws, improper planting or incorrect plant selec- tion. Obviously, this can be very costly and stress- ful. Here are some helpful tips to find an experi- enced professional: Research Their Website Most reputable companies have professional websites that will provide valuable information. Research the company's website to review pro- fessional qualifications, experience, photos of previous projects and awards won for any of their work. Get Referrals Get referrals from neighbors, friends and relatives who live in your area. When a company provides high-quality work and service, their reputation gets around quickly, especially in the areas where their business is concentrated. Look at Their Time in Business and Profes- sional Qualifications The company’s years in business reflects how experienced they are in all facets of design and construction. It is quite important for staff to have extensive training and experience in hardscape, drainage and plant knowledge, including growth habits, light and shade tolerance, hardiness and resistance to animals. Services Offered When you're looking for a landscape and hard- scape contractor for your home, pay attention to the design/build services that they provide. Imag- ine the landscape design possibilities with beauti- ful outdoor features including: Outdoor Walkways and Driveways Steps and Patios Outdoor Kitchens Outdoor Fireplaces or Fire Pits Pool and Water Features Retaining and Seating Walls Drainage Work Landscape Design and Construction Landscape Lighting Adding outdoor features to your landscape will create an inviting entrance, boost your home’s curb appeal and increase your home’s property value. By choosing the right landscape and design com- pany for your property, you reap the benefits of working with a professional company. Scott Parker is the owner of Parker Homescape, one of the top landscape design/build firms in the United States that has also been recognizes locally by Design NJ Magazine and New York Spaces Magazine for their award winning work. The firm’s work was chosen in 2012 to be published in a book that is currently being distributed worldwide. Additionally, Parker Homescape has been a four time recipient of the prestigious “Best of Houzz” award. For more information on Parker Homescape, visit their website and design portfolio at: www.parkerhomescape.com or call (908) 626-1100 HOW TO CHOOSE A LANDSCAPE & HARDSCAPE CONTRACTOR By: Scott Parker, Parker Homescape, LLC www.theconnectionsnj.com