SAHBA Home Hints
August 31, 2008
Call a Landscape Pro When it's Time to Beautify the Yard
New homeowners can have a lot on their minds like how to get the sofa through the front door or where to hang their favorite picture. Where as, landscaping a fresh patch of dirt may be the last thing on their list. But when it's time to cultivate the yard, there is more to it than digging holes.
The technical aspects of landscaping may confuse some homeowners. In most cases, builders grade the land in order to ensure water flows away from the structure.
“During planning, it doesn't hurt to speak with the builder up front,” said Richard Underwood, President of AAA Landscaping.
Builders know the overall design of the lot and its architectural intricacies. They can educate the homeowner on details such as roof drainage and other structural aspects that affect the movement of water on the property.
Adding plants, patio space, or a structure such as a gazebo can redirect the flow of water. Water must be able to move around, not over new structures, said Underwood.
When in Doubt, Defer to a Pro
Professionals can give homeowners definitive answers and educate them on how to redirect a yard's drainage field, said Underwood.
Licensed landscape contractors create designs that maintain or redesign the drainage field. When landscape contractors design a layout, plant options and flow are taken into account.
Adding plants to a yard is great, but try to stick to the plans, said Underwood, SAHBA member.
Homeowners may not know they planted a wide-spreading plant near a window.
Landscape contractors can prevent pooling water that can result in mosquitoes and structural problems. They also place trees and plants that shade the home in the summer time and allow warm light in during the winter.
Resources for Do-It-Yourselfers
• Home Depot Clinic's Garden Center
• University of Arizona SmartScape Program 's WaterSmart Workshops
Underwood recommends WaterSmart Workshops or experts at home improvement stores. UA's WaterSmart educates attendees on desert landscaping and irrigation.
Details: Underwood at 520-696-3223.
SAHBA represents about 750 member businesses and 40,000 jobs serving the residential construction industry in Pima and Cochise counties.
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