Professional lawn care services and DIY lawn care both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on your individual circumstances and preferences.
So here are some pros and cons for both options:
PROS and CONS of DIY
PROS | CONS |
Saving money (potentially) : No labor costs | There will be drawbacks in finding the right product for your lawn |
Time control: you are able to make your own schedule | The results of your hard work may be mediocre as you struggle with crabgrass and dandelions, or worse you could have grubs and without the professional help you may not be able to control them. |
Access to professional-grade consumer products | The hidden cost that might not be factored in. |
Health and fitness benefits | You could have issues storing the products. You will need to secure weed, lawn, and disease treatments in a moisture proof and cold weather proof place. |
Knowledge and expertise: the opportunity to research,learn, and do. | If you do mess up your lawn it may cost more to have the professional come and fix it then what it would have originally cost for them to come do it. |
Able to take pride in doing it yourself | The time commitment |
The equipment investment: the upfront cost to get the basic equipment and materials to get started. |
PROS and CONS of PROFESSIONAL
PROS | CONS |
Time saving: with hiring a service company someone else has to do all the work. You will not have to set aside the countless hours to maintain your own lawn. | Increased Labor Cost |
Consistent schedule: with many lawn care services you will get consistent weekly, bi weekly, or even monthly service. Same day(s) and time(s). Based on what you discuss and decide with the company. | Possible inflexibility: A lawns services fixed schedules doesn’t always have the flexibility you may need to be home at the same time. |
Professional-grade lawn care products: the best of the best products. | Increased product cost: some companies may charge more for trade-only products. |
Equipment is provided: their own equipment and fuel along with maintenance and repairs. No storage issues or maintenance issues for you to worry about. | Automatic treatment: some lawn care services use the automatic lawn care treatments regardless of what your lawn may need. ( speak with the company before deciding.) |
Skills and Experience: qualified lawn pros offer the benefit of focused training and industry knowledge. |
Ultimately, the choice between professional lawn care and DIY lawn care depends on your individual circumstances, including your budget, schedule, level of knowledge and experience, and personal preferences. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, consider consulting with a professional lawn care service to get a better sense of what they offer and what their prices are, and then weigh your options carefully.