Plastic Edging Installation: How Much Should You Charge?

Plastic edging is a popular choice for homeowners looking for an affordable and flexible option to enhance their gardens. It is easy to install and can be used to create curved borders and round garden beds. The cost of installing plastic edging varies depending on several factors, including the size of the project, labour costs, and regional differences in material costs. This guide will explore the costs involved in installing plastic edging and provide insights into the benefits and considerations of choosing this type of edging for your garden.

Average cost per linear foot

The average cost per linear foot to install plastic edging ranges from $0.50 to $3.25. This price can vary depending on regional differences in material and labor costs. Most landscaping companies charge between $30 and $110 per hour or around $1.50 to $10 per linear foot for labor costs. The type of land you're working with will also affect the cost, as hilly terrain or intricate designs will increase the price.

Plastic edging is a budget-friendly option that is lightweight, flexible, corrosion-resistant, and easy to install. It can be purchased in professional 20' strips and is a popular choice for those looking for an affordable and DIY-friendly way to enhance their gardens and outdoor spaces.

The cost of plastic edging installation can also depend on the job's size, conditions, and finish options. For example, the cost of preparing the worksite, protecting existing structures, and bringing systems into compliance with building codes can add to the total expense.

Additionally, the edging material's quality and type will impact the overall cost. Plastic is generally the most affordable option, while granite or stone edging can be more expensive.

It's worth noting that while plastic edging is a cost-effective choice, some people suggest using more durable materials like metal, stone, or brick, as plastic may not last long and can be prone to breakage.

Cost of materials

The cost of materials for installing plastic edging will depend on the type of plastic edging you choose, the length of your project, and your location.

Plastic edging is a popular choice for those looking for an affordable and flexible option to neaten their garden beds and borders. Plastic edging is lightweight, easy to install, and corrosion-resistant. The cost of plastic edging typically ranges from $0.50 to $3.25 per linear foot. However, some sources suggest that it can cost anywhere between $1 to $10 per linear foot, depending on the quality of the plastic.

To estimate the total cost of materials for your project, you should first measure the length of the area you want to edge. You can use rope or twine to create your desired design and then measure the length of the rope to determine the required amount of plastic edging. It is recommended to add 10% to the total length to account for any waste.

In addition to the cost of the plastic edging itself, you may also need to factor in the cost of other materials such as support stakes and basic soil amendments. If you are hiring a contractor to supervise the project, you can expect to add 13% to 22% to the total cost of materials and labor. Sales tax may also apply to the materials and supplies.

It is worth noting that while plastic edging is a cost-effective option, it may not be as durable as other materials such as metal, stone, or brick. Some users have reported that plastic edging can become brittle over time due to changing weather conditions and is more susceptible to breakage from lawnmowers.

Cost of labour

The cost of labour for installing plastic edging can vary depending on several factors. Most landscaping companies charge between $30 and $110 per hour or around $1.50 to $10 per linear foot for labour. The type of land you are working with will also affect the cost of labour. For example, if you have hilly terrain or need to work around ponds, exotic plants, trees, or statues, you may incur higher labour charges due to the increased planning and design complexity.

The size of your project will also influence labour costs. Comparing two projects that use the same materials, the larger area will generally require more labour and result in higher costs. Regional differences in labour rates and the overall demand for landscaping services in your area can also impact the final price.

It is worth noting that some contractors may charge a flat rate for the entire project, while others may provide an estimate based on the linear footage of the edging installed. It is always a good idea to get multiple quotes from different contractors and clarify whether their pricing is based on an hourly rate, a linear foot rate, or a flat project rate.

Additionally, if you require a general contractor to supervise the project, you can expect to pay an additional 13% to 22% of the total cost. This is a standard markup to cover the costs of organising and overseeing the installation work.

Cost of preparing the worksite

Preparing the worksite for landscape edging installation involves several steps and costs. Firstly, it is essential to protect any existing structures, finishes, materials, and components within the worksite. This may include covering or shielding nearby surfaces or elements to prevent damage during the installation process. Additionally, there may be costs associated with labour setup and mobilization, particularly for small or local landscape edging jobs.

Another factor to consider is the cost of removing, relocating, or modifying existing elements such as framing, surface finishes, and fixtures. This may involve dismantling or relocating fences, decks, or other structures to access the perimeter where the edging will be installed. Bringing these elements into compliance with current building codes may also incur additional expenses, especially if they have not been updated or maintained regularly.

Furthermore, hazardous materials like asbestos, lead, or radon may be present on the worksite. Testing and remediating these substances to ensure a safe working environment can add to the overall cost of preparing the worksite. Any necessary electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work that needs to be completed before the edging installation will also impact the total cost.

Finally, if a general contractor is supervising the project, their overhead and markup costs should be factored in. Typically, this can add 13% to 22% to the total cost of the project. Sales tax on any materials and supplies purchased specifically for the project will also contribute to the overall expense of preparing the worksite for landscape edging installation.

Cost of supervision

The cost of supervision for installing plastic edging can vary depending on several factors. If you are planning to hire a general contractor to supervise the project, you can expect to add 13% to 22% to the total cost of the project. This percentage takes into account the contractor's overhead and markup for organizing and supervising the installation.

The total cost of the project will depend on the length of edging required, typically measured in linear feet. Plastic edging is usually priced per linear foot, and the cost can range from $0.50 to $3.25 per linear foot, with some sources giving a wider range of $1 to $10 per linear foot. The price can also vary based on the quality and type of plastic chosen, with higher-quality options being more expensive.

In addition to the material costs, labor costs will also contribute to the total project cost. Most landscaping companies charge between $30 and $110 per hour or around $1.50 to $10 per linear foot for labor. The labor cost may be higher for projects with intricate designs, curved borders, or hilly terrain due to the increased complexity and time required.

It's important to note that regional differences in labor and material costs can also impact the overall price. For example, the estimated cost to install landscape edging in the zip code 98102 ranges from $2.21 to $6.12 per linear foot.

To calculate the cost of supervision, you can multiply the estimated total project cost (material cost + labor cost) by the percentage associated with the general contractor's fee (13% to 22%). This will give you an approximate idea of how much it will cost to have a contractor supervise the installation of plastic edging.

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