So you're considering starting a hardscape business. You've been bit by the bug. But where do you start?
Over the past decade, I have come to realize what I believe are five fundamentals of starting a professional Landscape/Hardscape business. Without this knowledge base, things can quickly become hard to manage, overwhelming in nature, and can eventually lead to the demise of a potentially successful business. Here are the five that I believe are foundational:
1. Design-Learn to draw to scale and design. The ability to create a unique design for a homeowner's specific yard is a helpful skill and a powerful selling tool. EricArneson is a designer who has lots of free YouTube resources on landscape design. Or for some design inspiration check out these hardscape companies that are consistently posting walkthroughs of new hardscape projects. Premier Outdoor Living - Hiner Outdoor Living - Creekside Outdoor Living
2. Installation knowledge and skills-Learn and practice the methods of installation. Installing hardscaping does not come naturally to everyone, so if you master the skill, there will very likely be a demand for it. Hardscape Training Canada and ICPI offer Hardscape training. Christian Hardscaper is consistently posting new videos showing installation processes. Crux Lon University has hands-on training courses.
3. Equipment Operation- in some circumstances, Skid steers and excavators can turn 4-hour tasks into 4-minute tasks. On top of the efficiency and time saving the diversification can prove beneficial by supplementing grading or drainage projects if hardscaping alone isn’t filling your schedule. United Rentals offers Skid Steer and Excavator training classes. Here is a free YouTube skid steer training video and a YouTube excavator training video.
4. Estimating- Learn to estimate the costs and duration of a project. The answers you will need to get good at answering are how much a project will cost and how long it will take. ScapeCubed has spreadsheets to assist with estimating the material, labor, and duration of retaining wall and paver projects. Those newer to estimating can make use of the internal estimated production rates. Hardscaper.com has a free estimating course and here is a Hardscape Estimating YouTube video
5. Business- Learn about business setup, administration, management, and finances. The above skills won’t have a ship to set sail with without a properly set up small business that has the proper insurance, licenses, and financial and record-keeping systems. Here is a Forbes article on How to Start a Landscaping Business Here is a link to a spreadsheet product that can assist you with determining what to charge. How to Hardscape podcast is a great resource for hardscape business knowledge. Synced Up and Headquarters offers comprehensive business management software for more advanced business management.
In conclusion, hardscaping is a growing industry that can offer a rewarding career opportunity for those who enjoy creating outdoor living spaces. With the demand for unique designs and quality installation, mastering the fundamentals of drawing, installing, equipment operation, estimating, and business administration can provide a solid foundation for getting started.