Introduction to Colorado Landscape Pricing
Colorado’s unique geography, climate conditions, and local regulations create a distinctive landscape service market with pricing structures that differ from national averages. From Denver’s urban environments to the suburban communities throughout Arapahoe County, understanding the specific cost factors that influence landscape services in Colorado helps homeowners and property managers better plan and budget for outdoor projects.
As growing populations in the Denver metro area continue to fuel demand for quality outdoor living spaces, the cost of landscape services has evolved to reflect both market pressures and the specialized knowledge required to create landscapes that thrive in Colorado’s challenging conditions.
This comprehensive guide examines the actual costs Colorado property owners can expect for various landscape services in 2025, with particular attention to edging solutions (below) that define and enhance outdoor spaces.
“Colorado landscapes require specialized approaches that account for our unique climate challenges. When clients understand the cost factors specific to our region, they can make more informed decisions that lead to successful, sustainable outdoor spaces,” explains Chad Livingston, owner of A Better Edge, a Colorado landscape company specializing in professional edging installation.
Key Landscape Services Pricing Factors in Colorado
Regional Cost Influences
Several factors make Colorado landscape costs unique compared to national averages:
- Water considerations: Colorado’s semi-arid climate requires specialized irrigation systems and drought-tolerant plant selections
- Extreme temperature fluctuations: Materials must withstand significant freeze-thaw cycles
- Soil challenges: From dense clay in Denver to rocky conditions in foothill communities
- Elevation variations: Different microclimates across the state influence material and plant selections
- Growing labor costs: The competitive Front Range labor market affects service costs
Cost Breakdown: Materials vs. Labor
Understanding what portion of your landscape services budget goes to materials versus labor helps in evaluating quotes:
| Cost Component | Percentage of Total Project Cost |
|---|---|
| Materials | 35-45% |
| Labor | 45-70% |
| Equipment/Overhead | 10-15% |
| Design Services (if applicable) | 5-10% |
| Design Services (if applicable) | 5-10% |
| Design Services (if applicable) | 5-10% |
For edging specifically, labor costs often outweigh material costs due to the intensive preparation required for proper installation. In the Denver metro area, landscape services involving edging installation typically allocate 55-65% of the budget to labor costs.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
Colorado’s landscape services market experiences predictable price fluctuations throughout the year:
- Peak season premium (May-July): 15-25% higher than off-season rates
- Fall installation discount (September-October): Often 5% lower than peak cost
- Winter planning discounts (November-February): Early booking discounts of 5-10% for spring installations
- Spring rush pricing (March-April): Can include 5-10% premiums for immediate installation
Concrete Landscape Edging Costs
Material and Installation
Concrete edging remains one of the most popular choices for Colorado landscapes due to its durability in our challenging climate. Current cost reflects both material costs and the skilled labor required for proper installation:
Concrete Edging Price Breakdown (Colorado, 2025)
| Type | Materials Only (per linear foot) | Installed Cost (per linear foot) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic concrete | $6.50 – $9.00 | $10.50 – $22.00 |
| Stamped concrete | $7.00 – $10.00 | $14.00 – $28.00 |
| Colored concrete | $6.75 – $9.25 | $13.00 – $23.00 |
Cost will trend toward the higher end of these ranges for Denver residents due to increased labor costs and permitting requirements. Throughout Arapahoe County, concrete edging installation typically runs 5-10% lower than Denver proper, reflecting slightly reduced labor costs in suburban areas.
Project Size Impact on Price!
The scale of your landscape services project significantly impacts the final cost:
| Project Size (linear feet) | Average Cost in Colorado |
|---|---|
| 20′ | $550 – $1,500 |
| 50′ | $1,375 – $2,500 |
| 75′ | $2,050 – $2,500 |
| 100′ | $2,750 – $3,000 |
| 150′ | $3,000 – $4,200 |
| 200′ | $4,000 – $5,000 |
| 300′ | $5,000 – $6,000 |
| 400′ | $5,500 – $7,500 |
Most residential landscape services in Denver and Arapahoe County involve concrete edging projects between 120 and 250 linear feet, with average total costs ranging from $2,800 to $5,500
Long-Term Value Considerations
While concrete edging represents a significant initial investment compared to temporary alternatives, Colorado homeowners should consider the long-term value:
- Durability: 30-70 years with proper maintenance
- Freeze-thaw resistance: Essential for Colorado’s climate
- Weed barrier effectiveness: Reduces ongoing maintenance costs
- Aesthetic longevity: Maintains clean lines for decades
- Reduced replacement costs: Eliminates the need for frequent replacement
Stone and Brick Landscape Edging Costs
Natural Stone Edging
Stone edging provides exceptional durability with a natural aesthetic that complements Colorado’s outdoor environment. Current Colorado costs include:
Stone Edging (Colorado, 2025)
| Stone Type | Materials Only (per linear foot) | Installed Cost (per linear foot) |
|---|---|---|
| Flagstone | $5.00 – $12.00 | $12.00 – $22.00 |
| Sandstone | $4.00 – $10.00 | $11.00 – $20.00 |
| River rock | $3.00 – $8.00 | $10.00 – $18.00 |
| Granite | $15.00 – $30.00 | $22.00 – $40.00 |
| Limestone | $6.00 – $15.00 | $13.00 – $25.00 |
Due to increased labor costs, Denver landscape services featuring stone edging installations typically trend 10-15% higher than state averages. Unique to Colorado, locally sourced stone from regional quarries can reduce material costs by 15-25% compared to imported options.
Brick Edging Options
Brick edging creates clean, defined borders with classic appeal. Colorado-specific pricing includes:
Brick Edging Colorado Price Factors
- Standard clay brick: $3.50 – $7.00 per linear foot (materials only)
- Antique/reclaimed brick: $5.00 – $9.00 per linear foot (materials only)
- Concrete brick pavers: $1.00 – $6.00 per linear foot (materials only)
- Installation labor: $8.00 – $15.00 per linear foot
- Base preparation: $3.00 – $12.00 per linear foot
For a complete brick edging installation in Arapahoe County, homeowners typically invest between $20.50 and $35.00 per linear foot, making a 150-linear-foot project cost between $3,075 and $5,250.
Are you interested in exceptional Cement Edging Services? Click Here.
Installation Methods Impact on Cost
The chosen installation method significantly impacts final costs for both stone and brick edging:
| Installation Method | Cost Impact | Durability | Best for Colorado Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry-set (no mortar) | -15% to -25% | Moderate | Moderate |
| Mortared joints | +10% to +20% | High | High |
| Concrete base | +15% to +25% | Very High | Very High |
| Sand-set | -10% to -20% | Lower | Not ideal for freeze-thaw cycles |
For Colorado’s extreme temperature fluctuations, landscape services professionals typically recommend mortared joints with a concrete base for maximum longevity, especially in Denver and other Front Range communities where freeze-thaw cycles are frequent.
Metal and Aluminum Landscape Edging Costs
Material Options
Metal edging provides clean, modern lines with excellent durability. Colorado costs include:
Metal Edging Price Comparison (Colorado, 2025)
| Type | Materials Only (per linear foot) | Installed Cost (per linear foot) |
|---|---|---|
| Steel (standard) | $3.50 – $7.00 | $10.00 – $18.00 |
| Aluminum | $3.00 – $8.00 | $11.00 – $19.00 |
| Corten/weathering steel | $6.50 – $12.00 | $13.00 – $24.00 |
| Galvanized steel | $2.20 – $8.50 | $11.50 – $19.50 |
Background: This study was performed to document the frequency and severity of limb injuries that occur when dogs come in contact with metal landscape edging. A retrospective study from 1997 to 2007 was performed at Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Sixty dogs were admitted to the hospital for traumatic limb injuries resulting from metal landscape edging identified by a computerized medical records search.
Key findings: Most dogs were young, large-breed dogs. All 60 dogs suffered traumatic pedal lacerations when contacting metal landscape edging, the majority of which occurred on the forelimbs. Eighty-five percent required surgical repair. All 60 dogs were discharged from the hospital, and 30 were available for long-term follow-up. While most dogs healed with a perfect cosmetic outcome, three dogs with tendon involvement developed residual digital deformities.
Significance: Dogs risk injury when exposed to metal landscape edging. The severity of pedal injury determines the treatment protocol and prognosis for recovery.”
EXTREMELY DANGEROUS WITHOUT ROLL TOP
HIGHLY DANGEROUS WITH ROLL TOP
https://www.weekand.com/home-garden/article/metal-edging-hazards-18037945.php
https://jordanlawcenter.com/i-tripped-over-a-landscape-edging-do-i-have-a-case/
https://blog.kurtz-bros.com/10-ways-that-your-yard-can-be-harmful-to-pets
https://momathonblog.typepad.com/momathon_blog/2008/06/metal-lawn-edging-the-hidden-knife-in-your-yard.html
https://www.houzz.com.au/discussions/6204626/garden-edging-is-a-safety-hazard
Throughout Arapahoe County, aluminum edging has gained popularity for its durability and lightweight properties. These properties simplify installation and potentially reduce labor costs by 10-15% compared to heavier materials.
Commercial vs. Residential Applications
Professional landscape services differentiate between commercial and residential metal edging installations:
- Commercial grade thickness: 1/8″ to 1/4″, adding 25-40% to material costs
- Residential standard thickness: 1/16″ to 3/32″, more economical but less durable
- Staking frequency: Commercial installations use 30-40% more stakes for stability
- Joint reinforcement: Commercial installations often include additional reinforcements
- Depth of installation: Commercial grade, typically installed 1-2″ deeper
For Denver commercial properties, landscape services companies typically recommend heavier gauge materials that increase initial costs but provide superior longevity in high-traffic areas.
Long-Term Cost Comparison
When evaluating the lifetime value of metal edging in Colorado’s climate:
| Edging Type | Initial Cost (180 linear feet) | Lifespan | Maintenance Requirements | 20-Year Cost Projection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | $1,980 – $3,420 | 25+ years | High | $2,180 – $3,820 |
| Steel | $1,800 – $3,240 | 20+ years | High | $2,100 – $3,740 |
| Plastic | $720 – $1,260 | 5-8 years | Moderate – High | $2,160 – $3,780 |
| Wood | $1,260 – $2,520 | 7-10 years | Very High | $3,060 – $5,040 |
Metal edging’s reduced degradation makes it particularly valuable in Colorado, where extreme weather conditions accelerate the deterioration of less durable materials.
“Wood edging (or concrete that looks like wood) offers a natural warmth that blends seamlessly with any landscape. At A Better Edge, we’ve perfected the installation process to ensure durability while maintaining that rustic charm our clients love. It’s not just about defining spaces—it’s about enhancing the natural beauty of your property with materials that feel like they belong.”
Chad, Owner of A Better Edge
Cost-Saving Strategies for Colorado Landscape Projects
Optimal Timing for Landscape Services
Strategic timing can significantly reduce landscape services costs in Colorado:
- Off-season scheduling: Book installations between October and March for 10-20% savings
- Multi-project bundling: Combine edging with other landscape projects for 5-15% discounts
- Material pre-purchasing: Buy materials during winter sales for spring installation
- Phased implementation: Complete large projects in sections to distribute costs
- Neighborhood coordination: Organize multiple installations in your area for group discounts
Many Denver landscape services companies offer financing options for larger projects, allowing homeowners to implement comprehensive solutions without upfront capital.
Material Selection Strategies
Choosing the right materials for Colorado’s specific conditions helps optimize both initial and long-term costs:
Colorado-Specific Material Considerations
- Locally sourced stone: Reduces transportation costs and supports regional businesses
- Recycled metal options: More affordable while maintaining durability
- Concrete color integration: More cost-effective than surface application
- Composite alternatives: New technologies provide durability with reduced weight
- Modular systems: Allow for more straightforward repairs and modifications
Throughout Arapahoe County, landscape services frequently recommend local materials that reduce environmental impact and project costs while ensuring compatibility with regional conditions.
DIY vs. Professional Installation Analysis
While DIY installation may appear cost-effective, Colorado homeowners should consider several factors:
| Aspect | DIY | Professional Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Materials cost | +10-15% (retail vs. contractor pricing) | Lower due to wholesale access |
| Equipment needs | Rental costs: $150-$300 | Included in service |
| Time investment | 3-6x longer than professional installation | Efficient completion |
| Result quality | Variable based on experience | Consistent, professional results |
| Warranty | None | Typically, 1-5 years |
| Colorado-specific knowledge | Limited | Expert understanding of local conditions |
For most Colorado homeowners, the value of professional landscape services becomes apparent when considering the specialized knowledge required for proper installation in our unique climate conditions.
Comparing Landscape Edging Options for Colorado Properties
Durability in Colorado’s Climate
The extreme temperature fluctuations and moisture variations in Colorado create unique durability requirements:
Edging Material Lifespan in Colorado Conditions
- Concrete edging: 10-30 years with proper installation
- Natural stone: 30-50+ years
- Brick: 15-30 years
- Aluminum: 25+ years
- Steel: 20+ years
- Plastic: 5-8 years
- Wood: 7-12 years, depending on treatment
Denver property owners particularly benefit from more durable materials. The city’s frequent freeze-thaw cycles and intense summer sun exposure accelerate the deterioration of lesser materials.
Return on Investment Analysis
When evaluating landscape services from an investment perspective, consider these Colorado-specific ROI factors:
| Edging Type | Initial Cost | ROI at Home Sale | Annual Maintenance Cost | Aesthetic Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete | Moderate-High | 70-85% | $25-$75 | Very High long term |
| Stone | High | 80-95% | $15-$50 | Very High (initially before settling) |
| Brick | Moderate-High | 75-90% | $30-$85 | High |
| Metal | Moderate | 65-80% | $10-$40 | Moderate-low |
| Plastic | Low | 20-40% | $50-$120 | Low-Moderate |
Throughout Arapahoe County, landscape services that enhance curb appeal with quality edging solutions typically return 70-90% of their Cost at resale, making them among the most valuable exterior improvements.
Specialized Landscape Services in Colorado
Mountain vs. Urban Installation Considerations
Colorado’s diverse geography creates distinct installation requirements and cost factors:
Regional Installation Cost Variations
- Denver metro area: Base cost with standard accessibility
- Mountain communities (above 7,000 ft): +15-25% for materials transport and specialized installation
- Eastern plains: -5-10% for easier accessibility and installation conditions
- Western slope: +10-20% for distance and material transportation
- Arapahoe County suburban areas: -5-10% compared to Denver urban core
Landscape services companies often adjust pricing based on these regional factors, with mountain installations requiring specialized techniques to accommodate extreme weather conditions.
Water-Conscious Design Integration
Colorado’s water restrictions and conservation efforts influence landscape services pricing:
- Xeriscaping integration: Adds 5-15% to initial installation but reduces water costs by 50-70%
- Drip irrigation incorporation: Adds $1.50-$3.00 per linear foot but reduces water usage by 30-50%
- Permeable edging options: Increases material costs by 10-20% but improves water retention
- Rain garden integration: Adds $500-$2,500 to project expenses, but qualifies for rebates in many municipalities
- Greywater system compatibility: Adds $1,500-$4,000 but significantly reduces water costs
Denver’s water conservation incentives, such as rebates and reduced water bills, can offset these additional costs, making water-conscious design increasingly cost-effective.
Commercial Landscape Edging: The Colorado Market
Commercial landscape services in Colorado face unique challenges due to our extreme temperature fluctuations, heavy snowfall, and intense UV exposure. These factors significantly influence both material selection and installation costs.
Commercial Edging Cost Breakdown
The national average for commercial landscape curbing is approximately $1,170, with most projects ranging between $630 and $1,710. However, Colorado’s specific climate conditions and labor market affect these figures.
| Material Type | Cost Per Linear Foot (Materials Only) |
|---|---|
| Plastic Edging | $0.50 – $5.25 |
| Metal/Steel Edging | $1.70 – $16.00 |
| Rubber Edging | $2.00 – $4.25 |
| Brick Edging | $1.50 – $5.50 |
| Concrete Edging | $4.00 – $15.00 |
In Denver’s commercial sector, durable materials like steel and rubber have gained significant traction despite their higher initial costs. They better withstand our freeze-thaw cycles and require less frequent replacement.
Labor Costs for Commercial Applications
Commercial landscape services in Colorado typically charge:
- Basic edging installation: $10.00 to $24.00 per linear foot
- Commercial concrete edging: $14.00 to $24.00 per linear foot
- Steel edging for commercial properties: $12.00 to $31.00 per linear foot
These rates tend to be 15-20% higher in Denver and Arapahoe County compared to more rural parts of Colorado, reflecting higher operating costs in these urban areas.
Rubber Landscape Edging: A Commercial Solution
Rubber edging has emerged as a suitable option for residential and commercial applications in Colorado’s challenging climate. Here’s why it deserves special consideration:
Cost Analysis of Rubber Edging
Rubber landscape edging costs between $2.00 and $8.25 per linear foot for materials only, positioning it as a mid-range option that is more durable than plastic but less expensive than premium materials like granite or decorative concrete.
When professionally installed, rubber edging costs:
- $8.25 to $16.00 per linear foot installed in Denver (including materials and labor)
- $8.00 to $15.50 per linear foot in most other Colorado regions
- The total installation cost for a standard 180-linear-foot commercial project is approximately $1800 to $2,880
“Regular maintenance of your landscape edging isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s an investment in longevity. Our seasonal care program prevents damage from weather extremes and keeps your property lines crisp and defined year-round.”
Chad, Owner of A Better Edge
Commercial Applications in Colorado
For businesses in Arapahoe County and throughout Colorado, rubber edging offers several specific advantages:
1. Climate Resistance
- Will not crack during extreme temperature swings (unlike concrete)
- Maintains flexibility during freeze-thaw cycles
- Resistant to snow plow damage typical in commercial parking areas
2. Commercial Aesthetics
- Available in brick-face and decorative patterns suitable for professional environments
- Maintains a clean, defined edge that enhances commercial property appearance
- Consistent coloration despite intense Colorado UV exposure
3. Installation Efficiency
Commercial landscape services can install rubber edging faster than poured concrete, minimizing business disruption. For retail centers in Denver and office parks in Arapahoe County, this means less customer and employee inconvenience.
“At A Better Edge, we don’t just install edging – we create customized solutions that transform your landscape. Every property has its unique character and challenges, which is why we take the time to understand your specific needs before recommending the perfect edging material and design. Whether you need elegant aluminum for curved garden beds, durable steel for high-traffic areas, or versatile concrete for a timeless look, our team delivers precision installation that enhances both functionality and curb appeal. Your vision, expertly defined – that’s our commitment.”
Chad, Owner of A Better Edge
Commercial Project Size Considerations
Most commercial landscape services in Colorado have minimum project requirements:
- Minimum project size: 100-150 linear feet for commercial edging
- Minimum service charge: $400-$600 for small commercial projects
- Typical commercial project scope: 200-500 linear feet
For large commercial properties in Denver, such as shopping centers or office complexes, edging projects frequently exceed 1,000 linear feet, qualifying for 10-15% volume discounts on materials and labor.
Material Longevity Analysis
For commercial property managers in Colorado, the lifespan of edging materials directly impacts ROI:
| Material | Average Lifespan in Colorado | Maintenance Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Rubber Edging | 10-15 years | Moderate (Re-set in freeze/thaw conditions) |
| Concrete Edging | 10-50 years | Low (minor crack repair) |
| Steel Edging | 15-25 years | Moderately High (Needs to be re-set or pounded in about every 6 months) |
| Plastic Edging | 3-7 years | High |
| Stone Edging | 20+ years | Moderate (Re-set in freeze/thaw climates and Grass/Weed intrusion) |
In Arapahoe County business districts, rubber edging has demonstrated excellent performance in high-traffic commercial environments, maintaining its appearance and functionality despite harsh winters and hot summers.
Commercial Installation Process
Professional landscape services for commercial rubber edging in Colorado typically include:
- Site preparation and grading
- Trench excavation to proper depth
- Base material placement and compaction
- Precise edging installation with proper anchoring
- Final grading and cleanup
In Denver’s commercial districts, the installation process for a standard project usually takes 1-2 days, minimizing business disruption while providing immediate visual enhancement.
Seasonal Considerations for Commercial Projects
Colorado’s climate creates distinct seasonal windows for landscape services:
Optimal Installation Periods
- Late spring (May-June): Ideal for most commercial installations across Colorado
- Early fall (September-October): Excellent for Denver and Arapahoe County projects before winter
- Summer (July-August): Suitable but potentially more expensive due to high demand
Weather-Related Installation Challenges
Commercial landscape services in Colorado must contend with unpredictable weather patterns. In Denver specifically, spring snow events can delay installations, while summer monsoon patterns in specific years might affect scheduling.
Commercial Maintenance Requirements
Rubber edging requires minimal maintenance compared to other commercial edging options:
- Annual inspection for shifting or frost heave (typically included in comprehensive landscape services)
- Occasional cleaning to maintain appearance in high-visibility commercial areas
- No painting or sealing is required (unlike wood or some concrete options)
This reduced maintenance requirement translates to significant long-term savings for commercial property managers in Arapahoe County shopping centers, hospitals, and office parks.
Making the Right Commercial Choice
When selecting landscape services for commercial edging in Colorado, consider the following:
- Initial budget vs. long-term maintenance costs
- Property type and traffic patterns
- Local climate variations (Denver’s urban heat island vs. suburban Arapahoe County)
- Aesthetic requirements for your commercial brand
- Sustainability goals and environmental considerations
Conclusion: Making Informed Landscape Investment Decisions
Colorado property owners face unique considerations when budgeting for landscape services. From Denver’s urban density to the suburban expanses of Arapahoe County, understanding regional cost factors helps ensure appropriate budget allocation and maximum return on investment.
When evaluating landscape services proposals, consider these essential factors:
- Climate appropriateness: Materials and designs suited to Colorado’s specific conditions
- Long-term durability: Higher initial investment often yields reduced lifetime costs
- Water efficiency: Integration with conservation efforts reduces ongoing expenses
- Installation quality: Professional installation ensures maximum performance in extreme conditions
- Aesthetic cohesion: Edging that complements regional architectural styles enhances property value
By understanding the actual costs and value propositions of various landscape services in Colorado’s unique environment, property owners can make informed decisions that enhance their immediate enjoyment and long-term property value. Whether choosing concrete, stone, brick, or metal edging, the investment in quality installation pays dividends in durability, appearance, and functionality through Colorado’s challenging seasons.
More info can be found on the Colorado General Assembly Water Wise Landscaping in Common Interest.
