If you’re looking for easy ways to boost your business and bring in more profit, you’re in the right spot.
Whether you’ve been doing this for years or just dipping your toes into new services, you’re probably looking for new ways to add revenue to your business.
Adding lighting, hardscaping, and Heritage Artificial Turf (HAT) can seriously up your game. These jobs are approachable, don’t require a ton of extra effort, and have great margins. Plus, they give any property that next-level look that clients love.
Stick around to see how these three simple additions can make a big difference to your bottom line.
Light Up Your Profits with Simple Outdoor Lighting
Professional outdoor lighting is a smart way to add value to your business and increase revenue, especially with good margins and the potential for more referrals. Adding lighting to landscapes transforms a property from daytime beauty to an eye-catching nighttime feature, making clients happy and driving up your bottom line.
When it comes to getting started with outdoor lighting, there are a few key points to keep in mind. First, you’ll be working with four main types of lighting: uplighting, wash lighting, path lighting, and downlighting. Uplights are great for highlighting trees and vertical structures, while wash lights work best for illuminating walls and shorter features.
Path lights are essential for lighting up walkways, and downlights or “moonlights” add a soft, natural glow from above for creating ambiance. If you’re working on hardscapes, there are plenty of options for integrating lights into walls, steps, and even water features.
The technical side of installation involves a few key components: transformers, wire, connectors, and of course, the fixtures. You’ll need to make sure your transformer brings down the voltage from 115 volts to a safe 15 volts for outdoor lights. For most jobs, you’ll be working with 150-watt to 300-watt transformers, but for larger projects, there are options that go up to 1200 watts.
Wire size is also crucial. You’ll use 12-gauge wire, but for longer runs or more wattage, you might need to step up to 10 or 8-gauge wire. The goal is to keep the voltage between 11 and 15 volts throughout the system to ensure long-lasting performance.
To get the installation right, plan your wire runs carefully, use permanent waterproof connectors, and make sure you’re hitting the voltage sweet spot at every fixture. Bury the wires securely and aim the lights during installation so everything looks great from day one. Going back at night to adjust is a good idea but not always necessary if done right during the day.
When it comes to selling outdoor lighting, the trick is getting your clients excited about their own property. Point out upsell features and suggest…
“That would look great with some light on it!”
The goal is to help your clients see how lighting can solve practical problems, like safety or security, while also enhancing the beauty and ambiance of their outdoor space.
Remember the “Four Ps”: Passion, Presentation, Power (knowledge), and Perfection.
Show your passion, present the lighting plan with confidence, use your technical knowledge to explain the system’s longevity, and strive for perfection in every installation.
By following these steps and paying attention to the details, you’ll be able to deliver stunning outdoor lighting projects that impress your clients and boost your business.
Want to learn even more? Check out Rick McNabb and this extensive video on our channel to bring in additional revenue, excellent profit margins, and maximum customer satisfaction.
Boost Your Profits with Easy Fire Pit Installs
Building a fire pit varies in cost depending on what you’re going for—size, type, and fuel source all play a part. For example, an above-ground propane fire pit (around 36 inches) usually runs about $850, but you might find options anywhere between $200 to $3,000, depending on materials.
If you’re thinking about going in-ground, expect the price to start at around $1,000 and climb to $5,000 or more for the larger natural gas setups. Of course, if you’re going simple with something like a charcoal burner, you could get it done for as little as $120.
Labor usually makes up about half the cost of the project. So, for a basic above-ground fire pit, you’re looking at around $400 to $500 for labor, assuming everything’s straightforward.
In-ground pits will push those labor costs higher, especially with the extra work needed for digging. And if you’re adding in gas or electrical hookups, don’t forget to factor in the cost of an electrician or plumber to handle that part of the job.
Above-ground fire pits are pretty affordable, anywhere from $200 to $1,500, and they offer a nice visual boost by being raised. Just keep in mind that with the fire being above ground, there’s a bit more risk of stray sparks.
On the flip side, in-ground pits cost more, typically between $1,000 and $3,000, but they’re a bit safer when it comes to flying embers. The downside? There’s no built-in safety wall, so if you’re working with families who have pets or kids, it’s something to consider.
Remember, we have products in stock to help you create amazing projects. And don’t forget about our expert staff who can raise them to the extreme with add-ons so you get extra income this fall.
If you’re looking to create excellent hardscape options for customers on a budget, check out some of the following products as alternatives to create that champagne look on a Miller High Life budget.
Landmark Outdoor Porcelain Veneers
Landmark’s 12x24 porcelain veneers are a solid alternative to cultured stone or brick. They come in at around $2.09–$2.20 per square foot, with potential resale at $3–$4 in most markets, so there’s a good margin to be made. You can check out the full range here.
They also offer porcelain tiles in various sizes, from 12x24 up to 24x48, giving you plenty of flexibility for any veneer project. Take a look at the options here.
Landmark’s 12x24 grip tiles are a solid choice for outdoor flatwork over concrete. They’re designed for durability and slip resistance and are perfect for outdoor spaces. You can explore the options here.
If you’re working on a veneer project, don’t forget we’ve got Laticrete Builder Veneer Mortar in stock and ready to go. Pair it with the grip tiles for a solid installation.
Maximize Your Gains with Artificial Turf Installation
If your clients have been eyeing a backyard putting green, now is the perfect time to add this high-reward project to your lineup. According to Angie’s List, the average cost to install a putting green falls between $3,500 and $9,000, depending on size and design complexity. This service offers a solid opportunity for you to upsell on existing projects or attract new clients looking to enhance their outdoor space.
Now check this out…
Whether it’s a simple green or a more complex setup, Heritage Artificial Turf (HAT) is in stock and ready for your next project. Plus, with our non-perforated design, you won’t have to worry about sagging. You’ll only need to consider drainage solutions to ensure long-term performance.
Check out all of our HAT Family Products here.
If you’re thinking about how this could fit into your current workload, remember that adding artificial turf installations is relatively low-effort compared to traditional landscaping projects. We’re here to support you with the knowledge and products to make these jobs smooth and profitable.
Besides, it’s a great way to boost your income this fall without taking on overly complex work.
Your Jobs Done Right
And remember, we’ve got all the tools and supplies you need to get the job done right. Whether you swing by the store or have everything delivered straight to your site, we’ve got you covered to keep your projects running smoothly and efficiently.
Click here to see HLSG's Lighting Guide.