Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Downers Grove, IL

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

You likely have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping requires advanced skills, intense labor, and heavy equipment. More complicated projects, such as adding an irrigation system or fire pit, also necessitate construction and machinery experience.

You can do some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. However, you should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a total yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you lack the needed expertise.

Hiring a landscape architect or designer helps prevent you from making costly mistakes. Professionals have the skills and know-how to elevate your outdoor space, recommend cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a plan for long-term maintenance.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Downers Grove Landscaping Company

You want to find a landscaper that offers the services you need within your budget. You also want to know that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following considerations in mind when hiring a landscaping contractor.

Services Offered

You should know what services you need before choosing a provider. Some companies offer lawn care services that focus on yard health and maintenance. These services can include mulching, controlling weeds, mowing, pruning, and fertilizing. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.

You want a full-service landscaping company if you plan to do a full revamp of your yard or want to install elements such as sprinkler or irrigation systems, retaining walls, or fire pits. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including landscaping rock projects, adding hardscapes, and gardening. Some provide lawn maintenance services in addition to design and architectural services.

Licensing and Experience

Most landscape contractors have advanced training and certifications in certain areas, such as lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Companies should possess the appropriate licenses from the Downers Grove city government. It may employ the following certified staff members:

• Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
• Licensed arborists
• Licensed horticulture specialists
• Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects

It might also have certifications from professional organizations, including the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. These certifications are an added bonus, but not mandatory. Your landscaper should be fully bonded and insured. Most providers have liability insurance to protect against bodily injury or property damage. Request an insurance certificate or insurance numbers to confirm a company's coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Look for companies with positive customer reviews and strong reputations. We recommend checking third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau. Read positive and negative reviews to gauge how a provider treats its customers. Stay away from companies with mainly negative reviews and frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share completed projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of your provider's landscaping designs and projects. They may also provide before and after pictures to show the quality of their work. Request finished landscape designs similar to your planned project to get a better idea of how it will look.

Sustainability Practices

Ask your landscaper about their sustainability practices, including waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly material options. Your provider can explain its own sustainability practices and offer recommendations for sustainable maintenance, including how to reduce cost, water consumption, and waste. When planting vegetation, your landscaper should use plants native to your area, such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant. Any work completed shouldn't impact your existing vegetation.

Cost

You should request multiple quotes from different companies. This allows you to compare services and cost and can even help you negotiate a lower price. Many providers offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, talk about project plans, and make recommendations. Your detailed quote will include information about various project expenses, such as labor and materials.

Landscaping Costs in Downers Grove

Landscaping in Downers Grove generally costs between $30 and $45 per hour. These prices depend on things such as project size and type. Bigger projects like resodding will cost more than simple lawn tasks like mowing or gardening. Larger projects require more labor, which will increase the final cost. Depending on the size of your yard, your provider may charge by the acre. The cost will also be influenced by the materials you choose. The table below shows the average cost of different landscaping services:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,806 - $17,075
Landscaping Design	$2,248 - $2,997
Landscaping LandGrading	$433 - $2,599
Landscaping Mulch	$26 - $130
Planting FlowerBeds	$87 - $1,733
Planting Trees	$227 - $379
Sodding	$43 - $52
Swimming Pool	$32,924 - $86,643