What Is a Landscaping Cost Calculator?
A landscaping cost calculator is a budgeting tool designed to help you estimate the total cost of a comprehensive landscaping project. By selecting the features you want, from new lawns and patios to trees and irrigation, you can get a detailed cost breakdown and a realistic budget for planning with a contractor or for a large-scale DIY project.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the square footage for area-based features like a new lawn (sod), paver patio, or planting beds.
- Enter the quantity for item-based features like trees and shrubs.
- Select checkboxes for major services like landscape design, grading, or an irrigation system.
- Choose between "DIY" (materials only) and "Hire Pro" (materials and labor) to see the cost difference.
- Click "Estimate Cost" to see a detailed breakdown.
Cost Breakdown Explained
- Area-Based Features: Costs for sod (new lawn), paver patios, and planting beds are estimated per square foot.
- Item-Based Features: Costs for trees and shrubs are estimated per item.
- Major Services: Costs for professional landscape design, site grading, and irrigation system installation are included as flat fees, as these are typically large, one-time expenses.
DIY vs. Pro Installation
The 'DIY' estimate covers the cost of materials only. The 'Hire Pro' option includes both materials and professional labor costs. Labor can often account for 50% or more of the total project cost.