Western PA Landscapers!

[93Chevy]

I thought it might be a good idea to start a thread for the Pittsburgh and Western PA guys.

I see a lot of guys from the Pittsburgh area on this site. I've met a few in person and I've seen some trucks from other guys I haven't talked to.

Just wanted to get everybody together and BS.

:waving:

[Pressedun]

:waving: from the 15044.

[planetlc]

15044? pretty darn close to me im from 16059/16046, i do a some work in 15044 though

[93Chevy]

Three guys within a stone's throw of each other. Good, good.



I'm Tim, for anybody that doesn't already know that :waving:

[planetlc]

I'm Mike btw didnt think to introduce myself thanks Tim hah, Preston, do you work mostly in Gibsonia, or outside of the area?

[Pressedun]

I'm Travis, I'm kinda spread out but I do work mostly in 15044. Anywhere from Gibsonia to Shaler to Shadyside, nothing in Wexford or Cranberry. Nice to meet you Mike.
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[93Chevy]

I'm Mike btw didnt think to introduce myself thanks Tim hah, Preston, do you work mostly in Gibsonia, or outside of the area?

How's business looking for you guys this year?

[planetlc]

as of right now its looking pretty promising, first time stepping out after graduation will be a little different, especially with the fact i have way more time to do things now that football is over with. What about you?

[93Chevy]

Hard to say as of yet. I'm waiting to hear back on a night-shift warehouse job down in Leetsdale. If I get that job, I'll keep my business and try to grow it as much as I can because I'll have a lot more daylight to work with.

If I don't get that job, I'll probably end up with a job at MMC Land Management and sell my mower and get rid of my accounts because what I have right now isn't paying squat.

[planetlc]

hopefully you get the job in Leetsdale then, because i know this is your passion. If you do end up at MMC though and look to sell your mower, let me know. We are looking for a walkbehind right now as it is.

[93Chevy]

hopefully you get the job in Leetsdale then, because i know this is your passion. If you do end up at MMC though and look to sell your mower, let me know. We are looking for a walkbehind right now as it is.

Okay, I'll let you know then definitely. If I need it gone, I'm gonna want it to go fast and go to a good home.

[Pressedun]

Looking pretty good this year, I'd like to be at 30 clients at the end of 2011 so hopefully that pans out. I can think of 5 places that will be 10+ yards of mulch so that'll be nice.
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[lawnkingforever]

Northern suburbs here also. I should see some growth this year. I usually only take business through word of mouth, but this year I may do some spot advertising in a few neighborhoods. I was in Florida a couple of weeks and test drove some standers. Those dealers down there blow all of these dealers up here away. These dealers carried every model and size of whatever mower brand or brands they carried. I can't even find a Grandstand or a V Ride to test out up here. Also the salesman seemed to know alot more about the mowers they were selling. Oh well enough with the rant. Good to see someone start a thread like this.

[deere615]

Nice thread Tim:waving:

For those that don't know me already I'm Brad, work in the mckees rocks, robinson, bellevue area.

I usually wave to most landscapers, post pics of your trucks so I know who ya guys are lol All my pictures of my trucks and work are in my thread-check the link in my signature

[planetlc]

hopefully i can get some pictures up soon, perhaps after things get cleaned up a little in the near future, dont typically make my way down to your area too much though hah

[deere615]

Hard to say as of yet. I'm waiting to hear back on a night-shift warehouse job down in Leetsdale. If I get that job, I'll keep my business and try to grow it as much as I can because I'll have a lot more daylight to work with.

If I don't get that job, I'll probably end up with a job at MMC Land Management and sell my mower and get rid of my accounts because what I have right now isn't paying squat.

From what I here MMC is a nice company. I see them around all the time especially plowing. they did all the cvs's and stuff. They got nice trucks and do a heck of alot of work across the city.

[93Chevy]

From what I here MMC is a nice company. I see them around all the time especially plowing. they did all the cvs's and stuff. They got nice trucks and do a heck of alot of work across the city.

Oh okay, I wondered where they did all their work. They do a little up my way, but I figured they did work closer to the city because their shop is like 10 minutes from my house but I only see them at one or two accounts all year.

[Pressedun]

Do they have one color they use for trucks? Don't think I've seen em around yet.
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[93Chevy]

They're all white with small black or dark blue lettering.

They've got a mix of Super Dutys and Chevys.

I probably sound like a stalker :laugh::laugh:

[Pressedun]

You are most definitely.
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[deere615]

Oh okay, I wondered where they did all their work. They do a little up my way, but I figured they did work closer to the city because their shop is like 10 minutes from my house but I only see them at one or two accounts all year.
They actually have multiple locations I believe. They used to rent a bay off a tree company in mcandless who rented off my uncle. They had like 4 trucks there. They still might even have them there not sure.
I have seen them a couple times in the summer and alot in the winter, all over. Like I said I usually catch them at CVS's either plowing or mowing. Check out their site if you havent, they are local and family owned
They're all white with small black or dark blue lettering.

They've got a mix of Super Dutys and Chevys.

I probably sound like a stalker :laugh::laugh:

Nope I knew that too I always look at other companys trucks. The got alotta nice ones and like you said a mix from regular cabs extended cabs crew cabs . they are all white and have MMC on the doors I believe in a square box with a tree next too it

[lawnkingforever]

JML is always looking for people. I think they even opened up a smaller branch over in Cranberry. There are located on RT. 910 a few miles east of RT.8. They mow some commercial accounts up this way.

[93Chevy]

They actually have multiple locations I believe. They used to rent a bay off a tree company in mcandless who rented off my uncle. They had like 4 trucks there. They still might even have them there not sure.
I have seen them a couple times in the summer and alot in the winter, all over. Like I said I usually catch them at CVS's either plowing or mowing. Check out their site if you havent, they are local and family owned


Nope I knew that too I always look at other companys trucks. The got alotta nice ones and like you said a mix from regular cabs extended cabs crew cabs . they are all white and have MMC on the doors I believe in a square box with a tree next too it

Maybe I'll have to invite them to join the site when I go for my interview next week.

I'll either be guaranteed a job or have a restraining order issued against me :laugh::laugh:

[93Chevy]

JML is always looking for people. I think they even opened up a smaller branch over in Cranberry. There are located on RT. 910 a few miles east of RT.8. They mow some commercial accounts up this way.

Yeah, they're like ants...all over the place!! :laugh::laugh:

[deere615]

Never saw JML around

[lawnkingforever]

I am Jeff by the way. JML is a pretty big outfit. You can see there shop and all of their trucks from the turnpike between the Harmar and Butler exit. Hey Deere, how does that Wright Stander do on the hills? I am considering the Scag V Ride. I liked the look of the Wright, but no dealers close by since Allegheny Golf in Cranberry closed. I love my Ferris WB but it is time for a change and a ZT simply would not work for most of my yards.

[Pressedun]

I am Jeff by the way. JML is a pretty big outfit. You can see there shop and all of their trucks from the turnpike between the Harmar and Butler exit. Hey Deere, how does that Wright Stander do on the hills? I am considering the Scag V Ride. I liked the look of the Wright, but no dealers close by since Allegheny Golf in Cranberry closed. I love my Ferris WB but it is time for a change and a ZT simply would not work for most of my yards.

JML's shop is pretty huge, I think they use mostly Ford Super Duties and NPR's. They must have 15 to 20 trucks with two huge buildings. I've seen em all the way downtown as well as up this way.
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[deere615]

I am Jeff by the way. JML is a pretty big outfit. You can see there shop and all of their trucks from the turnpike between the Harmar and Butler exit. Hey Deere, how does that Wright Stander do on the hills? I am considering the Scag V Ride. I liked the look of the Wright, but no dealers close by since Allegheny Golf in Cranberry closed. I love my Ferris WB but it is time for a change and a ZT simply would not work for most of my yards.

Ya I will have to look around and see if I see any of their trucks
I love my stander that's all the other company's around me use. Does good climbs hills straight up amazingly, down if its extremely steep its gonna wanna move side to side is good but could be better, I don't have much to compare to as I haven't used many others but it works for me. I hate there being no dealers I go to the one in beaver and its like 45 minutes. I actually brought mine through the wright rep though-very nice guy

[lawnkingforever]

Ya I will have to look around and see if I see any of their trucks
I love my stander that's all the other company's around me use. Does good climbs hills straight up amazingly, down if its extremely steep its gonna wanna move side to side is good but could be better, I don't have much to compare to as I haven't used many others but it works for me. I hate there being no dealers I go to the one in beaver and its like 45 minutes. I actually brought mine through the wright rep though-very nice guy

Thanks for the info, hills and rutting were my main concern with a stander. I don't see many standers up this way, except for an occaisional Wright.

[deere615]

Thanks for the info, hills and rutting were my main concern with a stander. I don't see many standers up this way, except for an occaisional Wright.

Wright is the only way to go with a stander IMO. My is a little less good on hills and rutting because I have the rapid height with the smaller tires. The regular ones and the new stander X might be a bit better but mine will climb right up hills you can barely walk up

[93Chevy]

I finally ordered a blowout kit for my Snapper, so hopefully that'll make this year a little more bearable.

[Pressedun]

I'm assuming no one runs Exmarks?
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[93Chevy]

I do/did for my current boss the last two years.

[Pressedun]

I've only used Toro and Exmark so I may a bit biased. I should try out some other walkbehinds like Ferris or Scag.
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[93Chevy]

I've only used Toro and Exmark so I may a bit biased. I should try out some other walkbehinds like Ferris or Scag.
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Exmark does make very nice mowers but I would like to try something else.

I'd like to get a Walker but only if I had an easy way to get the clippings in the truck.

I bag most of my accounts anyway and the Walkers bag better than anything.

[lawnkingforever]

I've only used Toro and Exmark so I may a bit biased. I should try out some other walkbehinds like Ferris or Scag.
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Ferris makes a decent mower, they are worth looking into. The Snapper Pro WBs caught my attention a few weeks ago while looking at standers. A 48" WB with an 18 HP Kaw engine for $4300. They looked very similar to the Ferris. Now I am by no means comparing them to a Scag or Exmark, but for someone looking to pay cash for a unit without breaking the bank, this could be an option. If next month at this time I am still undecided about the stander, I may just buy a Snapper Pro and be done with it.

[93Chevy]

Ferris makes a decent mower, they are worth looking into. The Snapper Pro WBs caught my attention a few weeks ago while looking at standers. A 48" WB with an 18 HP Kaw engine for $4300. They looked very similar to the Ferris. Now I am by no means comparing them to a Scag or Exmark, but for someone looking to pay cash for a unit without breaking the bank, this could be an option. If next month at this time I am still undecided about the stander, I may just buy a Snapper Pro and be done with it.

Make sure if you get a Snapper Pro 48," ask the dealer to install the blowout kit before you take it home with you.

I love mine, but the deck blowout it crazy. I ordered a blowout kit recently so I'm anxious to see how much it improves the performance.

[Pressedun]

I guess the thing is I love the ECS grips and I hate the t-bar... I could deal with pistol grips but I'd rather not.

[Pressedun]

There's a Gravely dealer bout 2 miles from me, perhaps I'll stop in and try one out sometime.

[93Chevy]

I guess the thing is I love the ECS grips and I hate the t-bar... I could deal with pistol grips but I'd rather not.

The Ferris and Snapper pistol grips are very "soft." Not mushy...but not stiff at all. I can run it all day and my hands/wrists are fine.

[93Chevy]

There's a Gravely dealer bout 2 miles from me, perhaps I'll stop in and try one out sometime.

One thing that turned me off from the Gravelys were their tiny rear tires. They look like doggone caster wheels.

Check out Krigger sometime. They sell Scag, Hustler, and Husqvarna. I think they may be picking up Exmark soon also, but I don't know for sure.

[Pressedun]

The Ferris and Snapper pistol grips are very "soft." Not mushy...but not stiff at all. I can run it all day and my hands/wrists are fine.

Good to know there, perhaps I'll check them out too.

[Pressedun]

One thing that turned me off from the Gravelys were their tiny rear tires. They look like doggone caster wheels.

Check out Krigger sometime. They sell Scag, Hustler, and Husqvarna. I think they may be picking up Exmark soon also, but I don't know for sure.

Sounds good, I bought my Exmark from Arnold's Hardware in Natrona Heights - great guy there and he knows his s**t. Not to mention they carry Stihl there too.

[93Chevy]

Good to know there, perhaps I'll check them out too.

I like the pistol grips and ECS because you can use those controls as leverage on hills. The Z-turn controls and T-bar controls would make me nervous on hills because you couldn't use the controls to leverage yourself.

If you understand what I'm trying to say. Kind of.

[lawnkingforever]

One thing that turned me off from the Gravelys were their tiny rear tires. They look like doggone caster wheels.

Check out Krigger sometime. They sell Scag, Hustler, and Husqvarna. I think they may be picking up Exmark soon also, but I don't know for sure.

Krigger did pick up Exmark, it seemed they are phazing out the Hustler line. They had 48" Vantage in the back, it looked like a very nice unit.

There is a Gravely dealer on RT. 8, he is going to call me when he gets the Prostance in. Form the specs. I already know the rear tires are too small and it weighs almost 1000LBs.

[93Chevy]

Krigger did pick up Exmark, it seemed they are phazing out the Hustler line. They had 48" Vantage in the back, it looked like a very nice unit.

There is a Gravely dealer on RT. 8, he is going to call me when he gets the Prostance in. Form the specs. I already know the rear tires are too small and it weighs almost 1000LBs.

I saw an ad in the paper Krigger was looking for an Exmark sales rep for their store. I was thinking about applying for it, but I have a couple other jobs I'm applying for first.

[93Chevy]

Krigger did pick up Exmark, it seemed they are phazing out the Hustler line. They had 48" Vantage in the back, it looked like a very nice unit.

There is a Gravely dealer on RT. 8, he is going to call me when he gets the Prostance in. Form the specs. I already know the rear tires are too small and it weighs almost 1000LBs.

I guess they picked up Redmax and Exmark from Allegheny after they closed down.

[Pressedun]

Krigger did pick up Exmark, it seemed they are phazing out the Hustler line. They had 48" Vantage in the back, it looked like a very nice unit.

There is a Gravely dealer on RT. 8, he is going to call me when he gets the Prostance in. Form the specs. I already know the rear tires are too small and it weighs almost 1000LBs.

Where's Krigger at?

That Gravely dealer is the one I live 2 miles from.
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[Pressedun]

Anyone listen to 102.5 WDVE? Love the funny stuff they do on there!
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[deere615]

Anyone listen to 102.5 WDVE? Love the funny stuff they do on there!
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Yep listen to the x some too Used to listen to DVE non stop but football talk got boring sometimes. love their comedy though Mike wysocki is so funny

[Pressedun]

Yep listen to the x some too Used to listen to DVE non stop but football talk got boring sometimes. love their comedy though Mike wysocki is so funny

Yeah I couldn't stand the football talk, other than that I find it to be quite humorous.
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[lawnkingforever]

Where's Krigger at?

That Gravely dealer is the one I live 2 miles from.
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It is right on 910 on the right side going east from RT. 8. Right where middle Rd. ends. Across the street from X Roads Motorsports.

[Pressedun]

It is right on 910 on the right side going east from RT. 8. Right where middle Rd. ends. Across the street from X Roads Motorsports.

Ah very nice, I live right by the post office so that'll be nice. They have Exmarks there?
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[lawnkingforever]

Yes they have Exmarks but not alot in stock right now. I never bought anything there. I got my Ferris from a small dealer up off Rt 28.

[Pressedun]

Sounds good, have to see if they have all the belts and filters and such there.
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[93Chevy]

How's everybody recovering from the snow??

[Green Sweep]

Hello Guys,

We are a lawn, irrigation and landscape lighting company based in the South Hills. We service the entire Pittsburgh area.

[93Chevy]

Nice to meet you.

I'm Tim :waving:

You have a nice website. Looks like you guys have a good operation going.

[Green Sweep]

Nice to meet you Tim.

Thanks for the compliment on the website. If any of you Pittsburgh landscapers need any sprinkler work done, let me know! I noticed a lot of you guys are up north. Makes sense, that is where all of the new construction is! I've got a lot of sprinkler customers in Treesdale, Cranberry, Wexford , etc.

[93Chevy]

Nice to meet you Tim.

Thanks for the compliment on the website. If any of you Pittsburgh landscapers need any sprinkler work done, let me know! I noticed a lot of you guys are up north. Makes sense, that is where all of the new construction is! I've got a lot of sprinkler customers in Treesdale, Cranberry, Wexford , etc.

You guys must get around a lot. How many employees/crews do you have?

[Pressedun]

Nice to meet you Tim.

Thanks for the compliment on the website. If any of you Pittsburgh landscapers need any sprinkler work done, let me know! I noticed a lot of you guys are up north. Makes sense, that is where all of the new construction is! I've got a lot of sprinkler customers in Treesdale, Cranberry, Wexford , etc.

Sounds good man, I don't have any clients with sprinkler systems at the moment and I don't really see that many around me. I'll certainly find you if I do run across someone that needs sprinkler work.

[deere615]

How's everybody recovering from the snow??
Uggh that was rough coulda done without it...
Hello Guys,

We are a lawn, irrigation and landscape lighting company based in the South Hills. We service the entire Pittsburgh area.

Hello, This is good to know for irrigation I am going to take down you info off your site if I need anything. Are you guys liscenced to do fertilization etc Sometimes I get bids for commercial sites that need fert and If I get them I would want someone local that knows the area I am based out of mckees rocks, bellevue, robinson, greentree. PM me if youd like.
Thanks
Brad

[lawnkingforever]

Tim,
Nice looking mower. Looks just like the one I seen at J&D Tractor. I know Scag and Exmark are top shelf, but for the price these Snapper Pros are a good deal. The guy at J&D says they have been selling alot of their WBs and ZTs.

[Green Sweep]

You guys must get around a lot. How many employees/crews do you have?

Around 15 employees

Hello, This is good to know for irrigation I am going to take down you info off your site if I need anything. Are you guys liscenced to do fertilization etc Sometimes I get bids for commercial sites that need fert and If I get them I would want someone local that knows the area I am based out of mckees rocks, bellevue, robinson, greentree. PM me if youd like.
Thanks
Brad

We are fully liscensed and insured and would be happy to provide you with quotes for commercial sites. Have a lot of fert and sprinkler customers in Moon/Robinson. Have a few accounts in Robinson Town Center.

Thanks guys!

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

Hey guys who have not seen me on here I am Jeremy I work mostley in sewickley, franklin park, moon,wexford.

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

Around 15 employees



We are fully liscensed and insured and would be happy to provide you with quotes for commercial sites. Have a lot of fert and sprinkler customers in Moon/Robinson. Have a few accounts in Robinson Town Center.

Thanks guys!

Hey Rob I think I mow a few of your lawns.

[93Chevy]

Tim,
Nice looking mower. Looks just like the one I seen at J&D Tractor. I know Scag and Exmark are top shelf, but for the price these Snapper Pros are a good deal. The guy at J&D says they have been selling alot of their WBs and ZTs.

Yeah...you get what you pay for, but you can't find a better bang-for-buck mower out there, in my opinion.

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

Yeah...you get what you pay for, but you can't find a better bang-for-buck mower out there, in my opinion.

Any luck selling her yet tim?

[93Chevy]

Any luck selling her yet tim?

No...I'm asking high, but I'm hoping somebody will play bid wars with me so we can work something out.

I'm also asking high because I don't really need to sell the mower...it's not costing me that much to keep it, but I would like to at least cancel out the loan I still own on it.

[Pressedun]

No...I'm asking high, but I'm hoping somebody will play bid wars with me so we can work something out.

I'm also asking high because I don't really need to sell the mower...it's not costing me that much to keep it, but I would like to at least cancel out the loan I still own on it.

Did you get 0 percent financing on it?
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[93Chevy]

Did you get 0 percent financing on it?
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I think it's 3.9% or something like over over 60 months.

Wanted to keep my monthly cost low. Unfortunately, I didn't realize I'd be selling it in year

[Pressedun]

Unexpected I guess but that's not a bad rate at all. I ended up getting 0% for 48 months however.
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[93Chevy]

Unexpected I guess but that's not a bad rate at all. I ended up getting 0% for 48 months however.
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That's pretty good also. How much was your Metro, if you don't mind me asking?

[Pressedun]

Well for the mower you have, an Exmark would be considerably higher.
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[93Chevy]

Well for the mower you have, an Exmark would be considerably higher.
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Yeah, a 48" Turf Tracer HP would be almost $8k with sulkey and side bagger I think.

[Pressedun]

That's pretty good also. How much was your Metro, if you don't mind me asking?

Ended up paying 3600 with the bagger plus tax.
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[Pressedun]

Yeah, a 48" Turf Tracer HP would be almost $8k with sulkey and side bagger I think.

I think you're asking the right amount, how much did you pay for yours?
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[93Chevy]

I think you're asking the right amount, how much did you pay for yours?
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$5200 after everything.

[Pressedun]

$5200 after everything.

Not bad at all, think as soon as my 2 years is up, I'll try to get 0 percent again on a hydro Exmark.
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[Pressedun]

Regardless, you should sell it by April I would think. Nice clean mower with little use.
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[93Chevy]

Regardless, you should sell it by April I would think. Nice clean mower with little use.
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Yeah, I hope so anyway.

[Pressedun]

Absolutely, basically a brand new mower at 20 percent off retail.
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[93Chevy]

Thought I'd give this thread a bump. Might gather some more PA guys.

[Cutter1]

I guess the old guy has to post.

[93Chevy]

Thanks for posting, Garrett! :waving:

[Cutter1]

You get a trophy for 12k posts?? WOW. :drinkup:

[deere615]

I think thats because they started counting off topic posts thats where timmy spends his time!

[93Chevy]

I think thats because they started counting off topic posts thats where timmy spends his time!

Yeah, up until about a year ago, the posts in the "Lets Max Out The Hits" thread didn't count toward the total forum post number. Then last March or April, those posts started going toward the total forum posts.

I'm not trying to win any awards; I just like talking with the guys "downstairs." Ya'll are invited to bump with us, most of it is making fun of me :laugh::laugh:

[Cutter1]

I'm a founding father on this site and still not even up there in posts. I like to read and lurk in the woodwork. :)

[deere615]

Yeah, up until about a year ago, the posts in the "Lets Max Out The Hits" thread didn't count toward the total forum post number. Then last March or April, those posts started going toward the total forum posts.

I'm not trying to win any awards; I just like talking with the guys "downstairs." Ya'll are invited to bump with us, most of it is making fun of me :laugh::laugh:

haha Ya I know, post count means nothing whether you have a tone or only a few. I went over there once or twice laughed a little then couldnt keep up with all the posts lol

[93Chevy]

You're the mature one, I'm the young whipper-snapper :laugh::laugh:

[93Chevy]

haha Ya I know, post count means nothing whether you have a tone or only a few. I went over there once or twice laughed a little then couldnt keep up with all the posts lol

Yeah...I hope nobody takes my advice; I'm really good at failing :laugh::laugh:

[deere615]

Yeah...I hope nobody takes my advice; I'm really good at failing :laugh::laugh:

Everyone has good advice, especially from people who have failed sometimes thats the best way to learn, always gotta be looking on the brightside:)

[93Chevy]

Everyone has good advice, especially from people who have failed sometimes thats the best way to learn, always gotta be looking on the brightside:)

I look at the bright side all the time...can't get much worse than where I'm at. :laugh::laugh:

I poke fun at myself a lot, but I wouldn't trade my experience for anything. I learned what I could do, couldn't do, and most importantly shouldn't do.

I know I could always be worse off, so I try to stay thankful for what I have, even though I'm in kind of a bind at this point.

[deere615]

I look at the bright side all the time...can't get much worse than where I'm at. :laugh::laugh:

I poke fun at myself a lot, but I wouldn't trade my experience for anything. I learned what I could do, couldn't do, and most importantly shouldn't do.

I know I could always be worse off, so I try to stay thankful for what I have, even though I'm in kind of a bind at this point.

Yeah I can understand what you are going through from what you have said. We all have our good and bad times. I live by everything happens for a reason, though I find myself having trouble believing that at times, I try...

[93Chevy]

Yeah I can understand what you are going through from what you have said. We all have our good and bad times. I live by everything happens for a reason, though I find myself having trouble believing that at times, I try...

Yeah I hear you, I'm big everything happens for a reason guy also.

Sometimes I don't understand why, but I just have to go with it and see what happens.

[93Chevy]

Thought I'd give a Thursday night bump

[93Chevy]

Here's a Monday bump!

I know there's more Pittsburgh guys out there!

[Pressedun]

I'm sure there are!

[lawnkingforever]

I just picked up a Grandstand today. I really hope this thing does OK on all of the hills around here. I think I will put off selling my Ferris WB until I am sure. Just from riding around my driveway, it seems like a decent machine. The mower only has 240 hrs. on it. The guy was getting out of the business that sold it to me. He also threw in an acclelerator bag, a Toro cloth bag, the Toro chute blocker, 3 sets of blades and all of the owners manuals. All for $4500.

[Pressedun]

Nice man, good luck with it and let us know how it is on the hills!
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[93Chevy]

I just picked up a Grandstand today. I really hope this thing does OK on all of the hills around here. I think I will put off selling my Ferris WB until I am sure. Just from riding around my driveway, it seems like a decent machine. The mower only has 240 hrs. on it. The guy was getting out of the business that sold it to me. He also threw in an acclelerator bag, a Toro cloth bag, the Toro chute blocker, 3 sets of blades and all of the owners manuals. All for $4500.

Sounds like a real good deal, Jeff. I was looking into Grandstands last year, but I didn't want to spend quite that much on a new machine. I ended up saving about $2k with my Snapper. I would like to try one out; if only for curiosity's sake.

[lawnkingforever]

How the Grandstand handles hills, was a concern. Once I get the hang of it, I will let you guys know. I am going to clean it up today. There was snow out east on the PA turnpike so there is some water and salt marks on it. Will post pictures after I do that. I also want to install the OCDC to see how it works. The OCDC looks brand new, right out of the box. I love the accelerator bag I got with it. It is so light compared to my old bagger and holds more grass, I now see why people spend the money on them. I need to start mowing ASAP, my wallet is a little lighter after this purchase.

[Pressedun]

How the Grandstand handles hills, was a concern. Once I get the hang of it, I will let you guys know. I am going to clean it up today. There was snow out east on the PA turnpike so there is some water and salt marks on it. Will post pictures after I do that. I also want to install the OCDC to see how it works. The OCDC looks brand new, right out of the box. I love the accelerator bag I got with it. It is so light compared to my old bagger and holds more grass, I now see why people spend the money on them. I need to start mowing ASAP, my wallet is a little lighter after this purchase.

Absolutely man, can't wait to get mowing again and can't wait to see some pictures of this thing!

[lawnkingforever]

Here is some pictures

[lawnkingforever]

can only do one at a time

[93Chevy]

That's a nice looking mower Jeff. Can't wait to hear what you think of it.

[deere615]

Stop down my shop someday we will drag race LMAO hopefully it does decent on hills mine is alright side to side

[Pressedun]

Nice lookin' machine Jeff!

[93Chevy]

Have you started your cleanups yet, Brad?

[deere615]

Have you started your cleanups yet, Brad?

No not for another week or 2. Still a few snow piles and its wet. I really dont do to many "cleanups" just some aeration etc. I have seen a guy or 2 out already though. I have been getting stuff ready etc, got both trailers inspected today

[93Chevy]

Oh okay. MMC has been doing cleanups for a couple weeks on and off. No mulch yet, just cutting grasses and cleaning out beds and that type of thing. Can't wait to start mowing!

[Pressedun]

I probably won't be starting til the 21st or so of this month... we'll see how the weather goes though!

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

Im with you guys don't do many cleanups Just kinda go out and do some stuff upon request. Then first mow clean up little leaves and such left over from fall.

Nice looking Grandstand you got a nice deal on that.

[deere615]

Oh okay. MMC has been doing cleanups for a couple weeks on and off. No mulch yet, just cutting grasses and cleaning out beds and that type of thing. Can't wait to start mowing!

Man they must have a ton of work! Most commercial contracts I see too usually state spring cleanup to be done on or after march 15th and some are april 1st

[93Chevy]

Man they must have a ton of work! Most commercial contracts I see too usually state spring cleanup to be done on or after march 15th and some are april 1st

They have 1 4 man crew that just does all-day HOA and assisted-living communities, plus 2 other crews for smaller HOA and commercial accounts, plus maybe 2-3 landscape crews that take care of everything from mulching, installs, and excavation/soil work.

I hope I'm not giving away too much info about their operation, but anybody could figure that much out if they watched them enough. Numbers I can't do, and truck/equipment/shop info is iffy, maybe in a phone call or face to face if anybody's interested. But not online really. Don't want to overstep my bounds.

[deere615]

They have 1 4 man crew that just does all-day HOA and assisted-living communities, plus 2 other crews for smaller HOA and commercial accounts, plus maybe 2-3 landscape crews that take care of everything from mulching, installs, and excavation/soil work.

I hope I'm not giving away too much info about their operation, but anybody could figure that much out if they watched them enough. Numbers I can't do, and truck/equipment/shop info is iffy, maybe in a phone call or face to face if anybody's interested. But not online really. Don't want to overstep my bounds.

Definitely not Tim, your smart! Yeah I have seen a crew doing commercials before

[lawnkingforever]

Im with you guys don't do many cleanups Just kinda go out and do some stuff upon request. Then first mow clean up little leaves and such left over from fall.

Nice looking Grandstand you got a nice deal on that.

Thanks. Same here, not many spring clean ups. Most of my yards are in newer developments, not many mature trees. There just is not anything there to clean up. I will go out in a couple weeks and edge all sidewalks, pick up any debris, and give a quick mow over before the season actually kicks in. I just bill them for a regular mowing.

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

Exactly what I do

[Pressedun]

Well that works for you guys!

Have quite a few clean ups (should be mostly branches and some leaves and dead plant material) that will probably take a good week or two with an hour to 3 or 4 hours being spent at each place.

[lawnkingforever]

I am not giving up yet on hoping for an early start to the season. But it sure is not looking good. My yard is so wet, you can't even walk in the grass. On the side of my property the drainage ditch from the road is overflowing and flooding out the entire back of my property. It is going too take weeks for it to dry out.

[Pressedun]

I hear ya man so much rain and snow melt and everything, this snow tomorrow won't help it at all after it melts. Clean ups are going to be soggy, muddy messes, blah.

[lawnkingforever]

I am done plowing no matter what. I just cleaned up all of the gravel in my yard. I will just drive through it until it melts. I would hate having to do cleanups in this weather. I seen some guys in front of my wife's office building doing some work a couple of days ago. I spent today changing the oil, filters and spark plug on my Grandstand. I also installed the OCDC. That mower is hard to work on, everything is jammed into such a small place.

[Pressedun]

Do any of you guys do or know anyone that does tree work in the area? I have a client that needs a quote on removing 2 trees and I've been asked by a couple other clients if I do tree work. I don't even know anyone I could refer them to so I'd like to find someone that does decent work...

It's warm out and the snow is just about gone!

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

I do buddy

[Pressedun]

You do it yourself? This place is pretty much in Monroeville, let me know if you'd be interested.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

what are the details ? type of tree how many loads how big

[Pressedun]

I'll stop by the place tomorrow and get you details. Two Pines, probably 2 foot diameter maybe 40 foot? I'll let you know.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

Yes if you can please get specific dteails like if you can take a tape with you measure the trunk. And maybe snap few pics send to my cell. thanks

[93Chevy]

I just got asked for some tree work in Gibsonia also Jeremy; I'll go look at in the next week or two and send you the details if you'd like.

If not, that's fine, but I'm just trying to help my customers find what they're looking for.

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

I just got asked for some tree work in Gibsonia also Jeremy; I'll go look at in the next week or two and send you the details if you'd like.

If not, that's fine, but I'm just trying to help my customers find what they're looking for.

sure Tim gibsonia is little better than monroeville but I would look at both let me know details Tim. Thanks

[lawnkingforever]

Flyers seem to be having less and less of an impact. I went out to give my first estimate of the season. I pulled up to the lady's house and looked in the newspaper slot on her mailbox and seen atleast 6 flyers jammed in there from various LCOs. She said her and the neighbors get bombarded every Spring with flyers. She said when the slot fills up, they just throw them away. She got my name through a friend at work.

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

I dont even think it is worth it anymore.

[lawnkingforever]

I dont even think it is worth it anymore.

Yea, I won't be putting out many flyers this year. You should of seen some of these flyers. Some were handwritten, others just typed up on a plain piece of paper, no wonder people simply throw them all out. A good quality flyer from a legit comapny would not have made a difference. Sort of like junk mail and e-mail, you just ignore it after so long. There is no way I am spending a day handing out thousands of flyers to maybe pick up one account.

[McG_Landscaping]

Hey guys i have been lurking on the site for a while and decided to join. My name is scott and I am the owner/operator of McGinn Lawn and Landscaping. I am located in Glenshaw (North Hills area) and service all around this area. Its really nice to see some other guys in this area and hear of familiar areas/lco's. Good luck to all of you this year!

[Pressedun]

Welcome Scott, good luck to you as well!
Posted via Mobile Device

[93Chevy]

Scott, nice to meet you. We do a lot of work in Gibsonia, so I may see you around. How do you like your Snapper?

[McG_Landscaping]

Scott, nice to meet you. We do a lot of work in Gibsonia, so I may see you around. How do you like your Snapper?

I absolutely LOVE my snapper. It sat all winter in a barn with no heat, gas in the tank, and the old oil. Three pulls and it started right up. Obviously I will be changing the oil and filters probably next weekend. But, anyway, I really like the mower and it has never really failed me. I am hoping to buy a 36" snapper hydro this year if i can come across one for the right price. It doesnt seem like too many people in our area use them and I dont know why because it has been so reliable and cuts very nice. Didnt/do you have a snapper as well?

[93Chevy]

Yeah, I'm working on selling it now. How old is yours, is it one of the newer ones? I love it, but I have one major complaint: deck blowout. Maybe for southern turfs it was okay, but I had a hell of a time last fall dealing with so much freaking blowout. I could barely suck up any leaves unless I was literally at an idle, just too much air coming from the deck.

But I did just have a blowout kit installed, basically it just lowers the front of the deck so no air can push out. I don't really care if it works though, I'll let the next guy deal with that :laugh::laugh:

[93Chevy]

This is company I just started with www.mmcland.com

Family owned, good place to work. I'll be leading a grass crew next month unless I screw something up or show I'm not responsible.

[McG_Landscaping]

Yeah, I'm working on selling it now. How old is yours, is it one of the newer ones? I love it, but I have one major complaint: deck blowout. Maybe for southern turfs it was okay, but I had a hell of a time last fall dealing with so much freaking blowout. I could barely suck up any leaves unless I was literally at an idle, just too much air coming from the deck.

But I did just have a blowout kit installed, basically it just lowers the front of the deck so no air can push out. I don't really care if it works though, I'll let the next guy deal with that :laugh::laugh:

I have the older model. I dont know the year but i think its around 2000 or so? I dont really have a problem with deck blowout, only a bit in the fall but thats still not too bad. I ran mulching blades for a day on it and had bad blowout so they came off the same day. It isn't the prettiest thing but it definitely gets the job done! I go to school all week about an hour away so I will take pics next weekend when I come home!

[93Chevy]

Yeah, the newer Snappers have a big blowout problem. Good mower though for the price; can't really complain. The blowout "plate" is covered under warranty, so it's no charge.

I have heard the 36" Snapper walk behinds have a better design and no blowout.

[McG_Landscaping]

I really hope so! After I get working and make some money this summer I want to pick up an older one. I really like the design and at the moment I cant afford a new one! Also I rather buy a used 36 and a dump insert for my truck than just a new walk behind

[McG_Landscaping]

its such a beautiful day here in the burgh! too bad its supposed to be the last one for what looks to be a week or more :realmad::wall

[lawnkingforever]

YES, it finally dried up enough for me to practice on my Grandstand. I am getting more comfortable in open areas, but still trying to master it in the tight areas. The grass is starting to green up, I should be out next week doing some minor clean ups if the weather cooperates.

[deere615]

Was out doing cleanups today, did one on friday and a bunch of work over the weekend too.

[93Chevy]

Nice couple days for cleanups, supposed to get cold and wet again though.

[deere615]

Nice couple days for cleanups, supposed to get cold and wet again though.

So they are saying, I see 2 days in the forecast they are calling for a mix of snow!

[93Chevy]

I know, I've seen that also. I really hope not! But it is what it is...nothing we can do about it!

[deere615]

I know, I've seen that also. I really hope not! But it is what it is...nothing we can do about it!

Yeah I love the snow and have salt but really don't want to have to pull the salter back out though I can have it ready in 15minutes or so it just wouldn't be worth it

[McG_Landscaping]

Yeah I love the snow and have salt but really don't want to have to pull the salter back out though I can have it ready in 15minutes or so it just wouldn't be worth it

I am definitely hoping I dont have to put the plow on my truck again until december! I still dont have alot of work lined up right now...kinda wishing I did even though the weather is poor!

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

I am definitely hoping I dont have to put the plow on my truck again until december! I still dont have alot of work lined up right now...kinda wishing I did even though the weather is poor!

I really reallly hope we do not get any snow I sold my plow truck. still have plow and salter but no mounts on either truck !! But I have Brad to back me up :waving:

[Pressedun]

No snow please!

Did a few clean ups so far and have about a dozen or so left to do, hopefully it doesn't rain too much over the next few weeks!
Posted via Mobile Device

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

No snow please!

Did a few clean ups so far and have about a dozen or so left to do, hopefully it doesn't rain too much over the next few weeks!
Posted via Mobile Device

Ya I am with you I am snowed out ! I got cleanups tommorrow and Wednesday.

[deere615]

I am definitely hoping I dont have to put the plow on my truck again until december! I still dont have alot of work lined up right now...kinda wishing I did even though the weather is poor!
Its still early I am just cleaning up some stuff from plowing and a few aeration's nothing much
I really reallly hope we do not get any snow I sold my plow truck. still have plow and salter but no mounts on either truck !! But I have Brad to back me up :waving:
get your shovel out! haha ya I don't think we will get anything but I'm here just call:waving:
No snow please!

Did a few clean ups so far and have about a dozen or so left to do, hopefully it doesn't rain too much over the next few weeks!
Posted via Mobile Device
Oh don't count it it we had a very rainy spring last year

[McG_Landscaping]

I really reallly hope we do not get any snow I sold my plow truck. still have plow and salter but no mounts on either truck !! But I have Brad to back me up :waving:

I saw your new dump in your thread but didnt realize you sold your 250! That seemed like a nice truck! (but obiously the dump is nicer and probably more useful)

[McG_Landscaping]

Its still early I am just cleaning up some stuff from plowing and a few aeration's nothing much

I know! Usually at least one of my customers would have called by now to set up a cleanup or something but i have a feeling its going to be a tough summer! I have around 15 resi yards every week and 1 large commercial mow that i do every other week. Not to mention working with my uncle and my part time job at Office Depot. I am still trying to pickup another 30 yards probably max. :dizzy: Despite a decent bit of work it still seems slow lol

[jbird3898]

Hi guys thought I would join in i am in the south hills but do work in other areas like reserve twp., moon ,imperilal, wexford, crandberry, robinson I always sem to be all over the place. I like the networking thing I am always looking for areas to dump when I am working outside of the south hills. I also like knowing where good suppliers are at too. If you are ever in my area let me know I have alot of connections here if you need help. Here is my site and contact info. http://www.jbirdslandscapingllc.com/

[McG_Landscaping]

Hi guys thought I would join in i am in the south hills but do work in other areas like reserve twp., moon ,imperilal, wexford, crandberry, robinson I always sem to be all over the place. I like the networking thing I am always looking for areas to dump when I am working outside of the south hills. I also like knowing where good suppliers are at too. If you are ever in my area let me know I have alot of connections here if you need help. Here is my site and contact info. http://www.jbirdslandscapingllc.com/

Hey jbird! I work mostly out of North Hills and northern regions. I am actually based in the township next to reserve (shaler). Maybe I will see you around with that military dump! If you are ever in the North Hills area and are looking for the better suppliers are just let me know!

[Green Sweep]

Hi guys thought I would join in i am in the south hills but do work in other areas like reserve twp., moon ,imperilal, wexford, crandberry, robinson I always sem to be all over the place. I like the networking thing I am always looking for areas to dump when I am working outside of the south hills. I also like knowing where good suppliers are at too. If you are ever in my area let me know I have alot of connections here if you need help. Here is my site and contact info. http://www.jbirdslandscapingllc.com/

I think that I've seen your truck parked on Cochran's Mill Road? If so, we are right down the street.

[93Chevy]

Neat truck, Jbird. Do you have a hard time finding part for it? My buddy is restoring an deuce and half.

[jbird3898]

ya thats my truck on cochrans mill rd

[jbird3898]

No i dont i know the right suppliers to buy parts from just gotta wait a day or two for them cant go to advance and find them. Its been out of commision sice last september some crackhead from up the street stole it and took it back in the woods and beat the F$ck out of it. I took the head off the other day to replace the blown gasket and all the pistions are cracked so i gotta get a few grand and head down to deleware to pick up a new one.

[jbird3898]

Where are ou out of tim ai have a bunch of friend w these trucks maybe its one of them.

[93Chevy]

I'm up in Mars, my buddy is Tom, works at his brother's steel fab shop. He restores old jeeps and started working on a deuce and a half about a year ago.

[jbird3898]

I dont know him i have a friend in shalar restoring one

[McG_Landscaping]

I dont know him i have a friend in shalar restoring one

Does your friend have a company in shaler?

[jbird3898]

No they dont. His truck is sitting at our friends business in the south hills

[Pressedun]

Where do you guys dump debris? It's always finding new places for that to save time and money!

I really only use the Reserve landfill on Hoffman Road...

[93Chevy]

I used to dump at my buddy's parents place who own the feed store, but ever since the wall "incident" I don't have anywhere to dump.

[Pressedun]

I put an ad on CL to see if anyone would allow me to dump privately for a smaller fee than I pay at the Reserve landfill. We'll see if I get any bites, definitely like to get some sites in different areas just in case.
Posted via Mobile Device

[deere615]

Where do you guys dump debris? It's always finding new places for that to save time and money!

I really only use the Reserve landfill on Hoffman Road...

I worked a deal with a lady close to me but she has a fence so everything gets tosed over, I usually just take grass leaves and small brush there I found another place to dump brush and I think I might have a place to dump dirt this summer though its 25minutes away which will be a killer especially when hauling heavy loads

[McG_Landscaping]

Where do you guys dump debris? It's always finding new places for that to save time and money!

I really only use the Reserve landfill on Hoffman Road...

I've gone there once or twice but I dump out at my uncle's house in Bulter. It is kind of a drive but its free. I saw that millvale library was trying to get a compost thing going. Saw it on craigslist and I think they wanted grass and stuff for free? might want to check it out!

[normower]

Diamond Mulch on 910 has yearly passes for sale I think. I am 15101 landscaper, but am a sophomore in high school just working in my neighborhood.

[Pressedun]

I've gone there once or twice but I dump out at my uncle's house in Bulter. It is kind of a drive but its free. I saw that millvale library was trying to get a compost thing going. Saw it on craigslist and I think they wanted grass and stuff for free? might want to check it out!

I'll have to look into that, I use that place cause its kinda close to a few places of mine but it's $25 a load. I'd rather pay like $50 a month or something, I do pass my disposal cost off to my customers anyway. Just like to find a better rate.
Posted via Mobile Device

[93Chevy]

Figured I'd give this thread a bump; how's everybody doing?

[deere615]

Figured I'd give this thread a bump; how's everybody doing?

Its snowing TIM!?!?! lol I was out cutting back grasses today and it started I wanted to do another small one but didnt get it done what you think is going to happen tonight?

[Pressedun]

Its snowing TIM!?!?! lol I was out cutting back grasses today and it started I wanted to do another small one but didnt get it done what you think is going to happen tonight?

I know man, what gives? Hopefully it doesn't amount to anything, got all my salt/snow equipment tucked in the back of my garage.
Posted via Mobile Device

[lawnkingforever]

I was hoping to start mowing next week, that obviously is not going to happen. I started last year the first week in April. Tim, I seen an MMC truck the other day in Gibsonia. If this lousy weather keeps up, expect alot of calls later in April for new business. I have got a few calls for a couple of bids so far, alot less than normal, being April is almost here.

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

too early to mow.

[Pressedun]

I was hoping to start mowing next week, that obviously is not going to happen. I started last year the first week in April. Tim, I seen an MMC truck the other day in Gibsonia. If this lousy weather keeps up, expect alot of calls later in April for new business. I have got a few calls for a couple of bids so far, alot less than normal, being April is almost here.

Its just been ridiculously cold, soon as it gets real nice out I'm sure the calls will pile up. I was hoping to get cutting next week too, blah snow.
Posted via Mobile Device

[McG_Landscaping]

i am not liking this weather at all!

[deere615]

I know man, what gives? Hopefully it doesn't amount to anything, got all my salt/snow equipment tucked in the back of my garage.
Posted via Mobile Device
Pull it back out!
too early to mow.

I did my first mulch job april 1st last year and started mowing a few april 5th

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

Pull it back out!


I did my first mulch job april 1st last year and started mowing a few april 5th

mulch is one thing mowing is another. I am talking about this year its to early now we all will be lucky if we are mowing by middle of april with the temps we have. Soil has to be around 50 to 55 degrees.

[deere615]

mulch is one thing mowing is another. I am talking about this year its to early now we all will be lucky if we are mowing by middle of april with the temps we have. Soil has to be around 50 to 55 degrees.

I know I started early last year and I thought it would be later with all the snow we had but ya this cold has been around a while. Temps are looking to be up in 40/50's next week

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

I know I started early last year and I thought it would be later with all the snow we had but ya this cold has been around a while. Temps are looking to be up in 40/50's next week

Ya Hopefully it gets better, I am doing mulch tommorw and topsoil+ seeding

[deere615]

Ya Hopefully it gets better, I am doing mulch tommorw and topsoil+ seeding

You nuts gunna be cold and possibly snow on the ground. I would wait until at least next week. I told all customers who want seeding etc to wait until the second week of april. Hopefully going to do one or 2 mulch jobs next week looking like alot of rain though

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

You nuts gunna be cold and possibly snow on the ground. I would wait until at least next week. I told all customers who want seeding etc to wait until the second week of april. Hopefully going to do one or 2 mulch jobs next week looking like alot of rain though

Ya I will see how it looks tommrow I know alot of guys seeding already it will come up when the weather warms up. I am going to lay down my mulch first thing that way give time for snow to melt. Then going to see how it looks possibly fix a few lawns with topsoil and seed them. All depends on the weather.

[93Chevy]

Its snowing TIM!?!?! lol I was out cutting back grasses today and it started I wanted to do another small one but didnt get it done what you think is going to happen tonight?

I don't know Brad...hard to say yet...I don't think so...I really hope it's not going to accumulate.

[93Chevy]

I was hoping to start mowing next week, that obviously is not going to happen. I started last year the first week in April. Tim, I seen an MMC truck the other day in Gibsonia. If this lousy weather keeps up, expect alot of calls later in April for new business. I have got a few calls for a couple of bids so far, alot less than normal, being April is almost here.

Might have been one of the managers; me and another guy are starting to edge an HOA over there, but I haven't been over there in a truck in a couple weeks and most everybody else is in Mars working on a commercial install.

[93Chevy]

I looked back and realized last year, I started mowing April 1.

I guess that's not going to happen this year!

[Travel'n Trees]

Beware I was scammed by Affiliated grounds maintainamce group and owner Rich Arlington of Erie pa. Becareful !! I found this on the Internet. http://uk-betting-tips.co.uk/showthread.php/22620-Richard-Arlington
Posted via Mobile Device

[deere615]

I looked back and realized last year, I started mowing April 1.

I guess that's not going to happen this year!

Nope and I like getting the full month of April in too. Last year I had all april and all through October it stayed nice

[lawnkingforever]

Things have greened up today. I will be mowing next week, I need to get this season started.

[93Chevy]

Grass can definitely be cut, especially the tall fescue. But most customers would have a cow if we showed up with our mowers already.

[93Chevy]

How about a bump.

What's everybody up to? Spring cleanups, mulch, etc?

I'm itching to start cutting.

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

you and me both Tim. I been doing mulch and lawn renovations. Not to many cleanups I did a real thourogh job in the fall. But I am gonna try to mow week of april 18th I will start. Hoping to get my zk this week coming

[93Chevy]

Sweet man, sounds good. What size deck on the new mower? Hopefully that'll help you out with your bigger lawns and save you some time.

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

Sweet man, sounds good. What size deck on the new mower? Hopefully that'll help you out with your bigger lawns and save you some time.

Thanks ya its a 52/27 and thats what I am hoping I really hope it saves about 10 min a lawn we will see. You guys busy?

[93Chevy]

Thanks ya its a 52/27 and thats what I am hoping I really hope it saves about 10 min a lawn we will see. You guys busy?

Yeah, we just finished up a big new commercial install/grading/erosion control job. We're working a good 40 each week, which is fine me. I'd rather work 50, but I'll take what I can get.

[lawnkingforever]

Thanks ya its a 52/27 and thats what I am hoping I really hope it saves about 10 min a lawn we will see. You guys busy?

That looks like a bad a$$ mower. I drove over to Penn Hills for an open house a few weeks ago and the Wright rep had all of the mowers lined up. Wright makes a nice mower, no doubt. Their 48" Stander is more compact than my Grandstand. If there was dealer close by I would consider one. When I was in Florida a couple of months ago, Wrights were everywhere. There were Wright dealers all over the place down there.

Should be mowing next week. I just sold my WB edger and old stick edger last week. Going down to my dealer to pick up a new one today. I spent way too much money this off season. Time to start making some money.

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

That looks like a bad a$$ mower. I drove over to Penn Hills for an open house a few weeks ago and the Wright rep had all of the mowers lined up. Wright makes a nice mower, no doubt. Their 48" Stander is more compact than my Grandstand. If there was dealer close by I would consider one. When I was in Florida a couple of months ago, Wrights were everywhere. There were Wright dealers all over the place down there.

Should be mowing next week. I just sold my WB edger and old stick edger last week. Going down to my dealer to pick up a new one today. I spent way too much money this off season. Time to start making some money.

Ya I thinki it will serve me well I dont bag a whole lot. No reason to unless your by landscape edges. I might go talk to dealer tommorrow suppose to rain! AGAIN :dizzy: I am with you but I did not spend a whole lot in the off season. I been working almost everyday doing lawn renovations mulch edging

[deere615]

That looks like a bad a$$ mower. I drove over to Penn Hills for an open house a few weeks ago and the Wright rep had all of the mowers lined up. Wright makes a nice mower, no doubt. Their 48" Stander is more compact than my Grandstand. If there was dealer close by I would consider one. When I was in Florida a couple of months ago, Wrights were everywhere. There were Wright dealers all over the place down there.

Should be mowing next week. I just sold my WB edger and old stick edger last week. Going down to my dealer to pick up a new one today. I spent way too much money this off season. Time to start making some money.

Kevin? i think thats his name if its still the same rep. Thats who I brought my mower off of

[McG_Landscaping]

have any of you guys done subcontracting work for default field services or heard anything good or bad about them?

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

have any of you guys done subcontracting work for default field services or heard anything good or bad about them?

I will never sub again! Not going to get into it on here but. Just my advice.

[McG_Landscaping]

I will never sub again! Not going to get into it on here but. Just my advice.

Oh no thats fine! I just would like to hear some local guys opinions on subbing with companies because I am debating whether or not it would be worth it to do. I am really trying to double the amount of lawns I cut and gain more landscaping contracts so I can quit working 3 jobs!! :dizzy: Just wondered if it was worth it or not, but from everything I am hearing it seems to be a thing I should stay clear of.

[Scott Barnes]

Oh wow, just found this thread and forum. Pgh seems like a good place to mow lawns, if it would ever start growing?

[Jpeg lawn maintenance]

Oh wow, just found this thread and forum. Pgh seems like a good place to mow lawns, if it would ever start growing?

Boy you aren't kidding! What areas do you service Scott?

[Scott Barnes]

I mow in Penn Hills, Monroeville, Plum, and am cutting one yard for a friend in Stanton Heights.

[deere615]

have any of you guys done subcontracting work for default field services or heard anything good or bad about them?
did it once for snowplowing wasn't a huge fan, I got paid eventually but wasnt worth it for the actual price. I see nothing wrong with subbing especially for local companies, its all on the sub and their reputation of paying, type work etc. I would even sub for nationals if they were good. But even the few good ones I have heard some bad things about not paying etc. I am sure there are some out there especially local management companies etc I just havent looked into it too much. Just really gotta know who your working for and build up trust with them.
Oh wow, just found this thread and forum. Pgh seems like a good place to mow lawns, if it would ever start growing?
Welcome:waving: couple of mine will need mowed next week

[93Chevy]

Oh wow, just found this thread and forum. Pgh seems like a good place to mow lawns, if it would ever start growing?

A lot of ours need cut but everything is super saturated.

[93Chevy]

A lot of the big companies around the area have a lot of subs, seems like a good way to get your foot in the door, but obviously you don't get paid as well.

[Scott Barnes]

Will be getting started next week. Not sure if I will head out early in the week or late. Have been seeing yards cut and think it is still a little early. It is supposed to be 80 on Sunday so not sure if my Monday yards will get cut this week or next?

[93Chevy]

Hopefully it dries out this weekend enough to start cutting by the end of the week. I just can't wait to start cutting again.

[Scott Barnes]

Ya I here you. Seems like this time of year am always excited to start mowing, then by Thanksgiving can not wait to put the mowers away and break out the ski equipment.

[Pressedun]

have any of you guys done subcontracting work for default field services or heard anything good or bad about them?

Here's my take on subcontracting...

I subbed for a company with lots of snowplowing accounts... it worked out pretty well. Was guaranteed a decent amount of money on each large snow fall and he always paid me within a week of the day that I plowed on.

I am now subbing for a landscaping company that does install/maintenance work only, they sub out the mowing/fert/irrigation. I dictate my own pricing so when I price the lawn, they incorporate that into their budget. Works well for me and everyone's happy.

Subbing can be a good way to get busy early provided you get in with the right companies and people. Other people work for you in a way in that you don't have to go find your own clients and deal with the billing/organization side of things.

I'm going to continue to sub for a while and see how things go...

[Pressedun]

hopefully it dries out this weekend enough to start cutting by the end of the week. I just can't wait to start cutting again.

........+1

[McG_Landscaping]

thanks for your input on the subbing guys! I am also itching to start mowing. Hopefully next friday I will start mine.

[Pressedun]

Ya I here you. Seems like this time of year am always excited to start mowing, then by Thanksgiving can not wait to put the mowers away and break out the ski equipment.

Not putting the plow on?!?

:laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

[Pressedun]

thanks for your input on the subbing guys! I am also itching to start mowing. Hopefully next friday I will start mine.

I'm hoping to do so late next week too!

[Scott Barnes]

Not putting the plow on?!?

:laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

No plowing for me in the winter. I think it would just tear up my 1992 work truck.

[RainMen]

Chiming in from McDonald (15057) PA. Any other westsiders on here? We do residential and commercial landscape and sprinkler systems. Hoping for a good year as always. Good luck to everyone :waving:

[93Chevy]

Thanks for posting :waving:

[Scott Barnes]

Thinking about moving a rodeadendrum:waving::waving::waving:

To the back of the yard.

[Scott Barnes]

Looks like four hours of sun tomorrow. We sure could use it.

[93Chevy]

Yeah, thankfully. We're finally supposed to start cutting tomorrow. I'm excited.

[Scott Barnes]

Thinking for Western Pa. a 9 am start time for tomorrow might be a little early.

[lawnkingforever]

I might go out after lunchtime to mow a few yards, let things dry out a little. I was doing a cleanup in the rain today, this weather is starting to cost me money now. I seen alot of mowing trailers out today.

[Pressedun]

I might go out after lunchtime to mow a few yards, let things dry out a little. I was doing a cleanup in the rain today, this weather is starting to cost me money now. I seen alot of mowing trailers out today.

I second that... needs to dry up and get cutting.

I see one of JML's Super Duty's is at the transmission shop across the street from my apartment... wonder if they use diesel?

[93Chevy]

I second that... needs to dry up and get cutting.

I see one of JML's Super Duty's is at the transmission shop across the street from my apartment... wonder if they use diesel?

I think they're all gasser F450's...but I might be wrong on that. They've been revamping their vehicles the past few years and I think they've got pretty much everything standardized.

[Pressedun]

I think they're all gasser F450's...but I might be wrong on that. They've been revamping their vehicles the past few years and I think they've got pretty much everything standardized.

Ahh, it looks like an '05 or so 250 or 350 crew cab, long bed and single rear wheel.

I have seen they have quite a few NPR's, seems to be a good way to go there.

[93Chevy]

Ahh, it looks like an '05 or so 250 or 350 crew cab, long bed and single rear wheel.

I have seen they have quite a few NPR's, seems to be a good way to go there.

Oh yeah, I somehow got Brickman's trucks in JML colors mixed up in my head. :laugh::laugh::laugh:

My bad, but I am pretty sure they they don't use any diesel in their Fords.

[Pressedun]

Oh yeah, I somehow got Brickman's trucks in JML colors mixed up in my head. :laugh::laugh::laugh:

My bad, but I am pretty sure they they don't use any diesel in their Fords.

Speaking of which, saw a Brickman truck today down in Monroeville... I'll say the paint scheme is an eye catcher, you don't see those colors anywhere else! I bet it's those darn brown wheels...

[93Chevy]

Have you ever seen Sarver Landscape Maintenance Company around? They have a couple Isuzu cabovers, a couple big Kodiaks, and a crew cab Dodge 5500 dump. They arguably do the best commercial work in the northern Pittsburgh area.

[Pressedun]

Have you ever seen Sarver Landscape Maintenance Company around? They have a couple Isuzu cabovers, a couple big Kodiaks, and a crew cab Dodge 5500 dump. They arguably do the best commercial work in the northern Pittsburgh area.

Nope haven't seen any of them around yet... I'm sure they do a lot of work in Cranberry/Wexford area then... Lots of nice office/industrial parks there.

[93Chevy]

Nope haven't seen any of them around yet... I'm sure they do a lot of work in Cranberry/Wexford area then... Lots of nice office/industrial parks there.

For the volume they handle, their work is very good. Maybe not the best, but the best I've seen around here.

[Pressedun]

For the volume they handle, their work is very good. Maybe not the best, but the best I've seen around here.

Sounds good, I'll keep my eye open for em! So many other LCO's, it's incredible but yet there's enough work to go around to justify that many I guess...

[zak406]

Hey guys I wanted to introduce myself, (some of you may know me some of you might not) Im zach ill be turning 21 in may. I started cutting grass when I was 12ish and it took off from there. When I graduated highschool I gave my customers to my brother and took a job with a local construction company while playing hockey for a team in pittsburgh, a year later I played hockey for a year in newyork. When I came back last year I was dirt poor and restarted landscaping! Here is my work from the past few years! Thanks guys Btw im located in 15642

http://lawnsite.com/showthread.php?t=313907 2010 work
http://lawnsite.com/showthread.php?t=345497 2011 work

[McG_Landscaping]

Hey guys! I am going to start mowing friday! I am ready to get back into the swing of things!

[deere615]

Hoping to do a few tomorrow and skipping all classes thursday to mow all day.

[93Chevy]

Brad...you're not going to school to skip class...you can quit school, pay less, and not go to class :nono::nono:

http://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Holidays_and_Party/snowman-058.gifhttp://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Holidays_and_Party/snowman-058.gifhttp://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Holidays_and_Party/snowman-058.gifhttp://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Holidays_and_Party/snowman-058.gifhttp://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Holidays_and_Party/snowman-058.gif

[deere615]

Brad...you're not going to school to skip class...you can quit school, pay less, and not go to class :nono::nono:

http://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Holidays_and_Party/snowman-058.gifhttp://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Holidays_and_Party/snowman-058.gifhttp://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Holidays_and_Party/snowman-058.gifhttp://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Holidays_and_Party/snowman-058.gifhttp://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Holidays_and_Party/snowman-058.gif

ugghhh I been saying that since I started only this month and one more year to go... I should pass all my classes. I skipped some these past 2 weeks but have had perfect attendance the whole semester even with all the snow. Some classes are just pointless its amazing the amount of kids that never come to class and never do any work, must be nice to have parents pay for everything. Also trying to find time for these friggin group projects suck I have always hated group projects there are always some that will do no work and some that will do all the work.

Edit-I like the snowman tim :)

[McG_Landscaping]

lol i skipped school in highschool a few times to mow. My parents were cool with it because I wasnt skipping like many others to sit around and play video games all day. Now I try not to skip as much since I actually pay for school but I definitely always make my schedule around my mowing schedule. I am still hoping to possibly pick up a few more yards. Last year I picked up 3 yards at the end of the season so I am hoping to pick up enough for a second day of mowing.

[deere615]

lol i skipped school in highschool a few times to mow. My parents were cool with it because I wasnt skipping like many others to sit around and play video games all day. Now I try not to skip as much since I actually pay for school but I definitely always make my schedule around my mowing schedule. I am still hoping to possibly pick up a few more yards. Last year I picked up 3 yards at the end of the season so I am hoping to pick up enough for a second day of mowing.

yeah I never skipped in highschool, I had perfect attendance all 4 years! Weathers been killing me, my customers make my schedule and jobs have been rolling in. alot of these big jobs I dont have time to get done unless I skip because most of my spring classes I schedule in the middle of the day so I have evenings/nights/ late mornings for the snow plowing. I am sure my parents would have let me skip a little in highschool but I didnt need to. College they dont care too much mom mom will get a little mad at me but as long as I pass they are fine

[93Chevy]

ugghhh I been saying that since I started only this month and one more year to go... I should pass all my classes. I skipped some these past 2 weeks but have had perfect attendance the whole semester even with all the snow. Some classes are just pointless its amazing the amount of kids that never come to class and never do any work, must be nice to have parents pay for everything. Also trying to find time for these friggin group projects suck I have always hated group projects there are always some that will do no work and some that will do all the work.

Edit-I like the snowman tim :)

Yeah, I hear you. I skipped a little here and here and tried to stack my classes on certain days so I could have a day or two off every week to work.

[deere615]

Yeah, I hear you. I skipped a little here and here and tried to stack my classes on certain days so I could have a day or two off every week to work.

Yeah its tough when I schedule because I want good teachers and times all close together, I really dont like to stack too many in one day because I like to get work done each day then if it rains/snows on a day I would have off etc I would be screwed

[93Chevy]

Yeah its tough when I schedule because I want good teachers and times all close together, I really dont like to stack too many in one day because I like to get work done each day then if it rains/snows on a day I would have off etc I would be screwed

That's true. I never really had enough work to worry about skipping classes. I'd either mow all one week day or on Saturday depending on the weather.

[deere615]

That's true. I never really had enough work to worry about skipping classes. I'd either mow all one week day or on Saturday depending on the weather.

yeah its been building up the last few years senior year is going to be really tough! But like I said highschool I didnt have that much I would do 3 lawns or so after school 4 days or so and be done. whats tough now is the homework too coming home and spending all night doing that crap I gotta finish this stuff up and meet with a group before class tomorrow. Highschool I used every second I had in study halls and between classes to get homework done

[McG_Landscaping]

I usually mow on fridays and saturdays. That leaves me sunday as a makeup day. And as of now I only have one large commercial property that I leave school on a weekday every other week to do. All of my customers have been super understanding with my schedule and are always willing to work with me! I guess I have been lucky

[McG_Landscaping]

also I just made a website (its in my signature). I know it still needs some work and more pics but I am looking for constructive criticism. Everyone from pittsburgh seems to be really nice compared to some other people on the site and I rather hear what you guys have to say rather than some of those other people.