Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Grafton, IL

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, but landscaping needs more advanced skills. Full-scale landscaping projects require heavy equipment and intense labor. If you want to add complex elements such as a fire pit or irrigation system, you'll need someone with construction and machinery expertise.

You can handle some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, are easier to DIY. You should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a total yard overhaul, or smaller projects for which you lack the needed expertise.

Hiring a landscape designer or architect 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 develop a long-term maintenance plan.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Grafton Landscaping Company

Selecting the right landscaping company comes down to certain factors, such as your budget, your service needs, and the company’s experience. Consider the following factors when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Have an idea of what services you need before picking a provider. Some companies provide lawn care services that focus on yard health and maintenance. These services can include mulching, controlling weeds, pruning, mowing, and fertilizing. Many also offer pest management solutions and tree removal services.

A full-service landscaping company is the best choice if you're planning to revamp your entire yard or install architectural elements such as retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and fire pits. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, such as adding hardscapes, landscaping rock projects, and gardening. Some might also offer lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Most landscapers have advanced training and certifications in various areas, such as outdoor design, lawn maintenance, and horticulture. Companies should hold the appropriate licensure from the Grafton 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 may also hold certifications from professional organizations, including the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. While not mandatory, these certifications are an added bonus. Landscapers should have liability insurance for protection against property damage or bodily injury. Any contractor you hire should be fully insured and bonded. Make sure to request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to verify coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

We recommend using third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to gauge a company's reputation and customer experience. Stay away from companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service. Try to find a provider with positive customer ratings.

Work Portfolio

Many landscaping and maintenance companies are happy to share photos of previously completed projects with prospective customers. Request to see a portfolio of landscaping projects and designs, preferably ones similar to your own ideas. Companies often have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.

Sustainability Practices

A landscaping company's sustainability practices are essential. These practices include eco-friendly material options, water conservation, and waste management. Landscaping contractors should select native plant life—such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant—for best results. Any work completed on your property shouldn't impact your existing vegetation. Your landscaper should advise you of sustainability practices for your project and offer recommendations for reducing maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

Cost

You should request multiple quotes from different companies—this lets you compare services and cost and might even help you negotiate a better deal. Many companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and provide recommendations. Your detailed quote includes information about various project expenses, such as labor and materials.

Landscaping Costs in Grafton

Generally, landscaping costs $28–$42 per hour in Grafton. These figures vary based on project size and type. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Depending on your yard's size, the company may charge by the acre. Larger or more complex projects require more labor, which will increase the cost. Pricing will also depend on your selected materials. The table below shows the average cost of common landscaping projects:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,598 - $16,797
Landscaping Design	$2,125 - $2,834
Landscaping LandGrading	$426 - $2,556
Landscaping Mulch	$26 - $128
Planting FlowerBeds	$85 - $1,704
Planting Trees	$223 - $372
Sodding	$43 - $51
Swimming Pool	$32,372 - $85,190