Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Lockport, IL

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance skills. However, more specialized knowledge is required for landscaping. Full-scale landscaping requires heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as irrigation systems or fire pits, need construction and machinery experience as well.

You can handle some landscaping projects on your own. Smaller projects, such as removing overgrown plants or adding a flower bed, are easier to DIY. You should hire a landscaping contractor for things like a complete yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you don't have the needed expertise.

Professional landscape architects and designers can enhance your lawn, recommend the most cost-effective upgrades, and help you develop a long-term landscape maintenance plan. These professionals have the skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor living space. Contactors that also provide lawn care services can improve the health of your lawn and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Lockport Landscaping Company

You want to find a landscaper that offers the services you need within your budget. Also ensure that your provider has a good reputation. Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Consider your lawn's needs when choosing a landscaping company. Some providers offer lawn care services—such as fertilizing, pruning, mulching, mowing, and controlling weeds—to improve your yard health and maintenance. These companies often also offer pest control and tree clearing services.

You'll need full-service landscaping if you're planning a full revamp of your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, adding hardscapes, and landscaping rock projects. They can also help install fire pits, retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements. Some offer lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Your landscaper should have the appropriate licenses from the Lockport city government. Contractors often also have advanced training and certification in areas such as lawn maintenance, outdoor design, and horticulture. Your provider might 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, such as the Professional Landcare Network and the National Association of Landscape Professionals. While not mandatory, these certifications are an added bonus. Your landscaping contractor should be fully insured and bonded; most providers have liability insurance to protect against bodily injury or property damage. Request an insurance certificate or insurance numbers to verify a company's coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

Find a contractor with good customer reviews. You can check third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to verify that a company has a good reputation and provides a positive customer experience. Avoid companies with largely negative reviews, including ones that frequently mention unreliable customer service, delayed projects, or poor project results.

Work Portfolio

Most landscaping and maintenance contractors proudly share their completed projects with potential customers. Ask the company for its portfolio of landscaping designs and projects. They might also provide before and after pictures to show off their quality work. Request completed landscape designs similar to your project to get a better idea of how it will look.

Sustainability Practices

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

Cost

We recommend requesting quotes from multiple companies—this lets you compare services and cost and can even help you negotiate a lower price. Many companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, discuss project plans, and make recommendations. Your detailed quote will include information about various project costs, such as labor and materials.

Landscaping Costs in Lockport

Generally, landscaping costs $30–$45 per hour in Lockport. These figures vary based on project type and size. Tasks that require less complicated work, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Factors like materials and the size of your yard will all influence your final cost. For larger yards, a provider may charge by the acre. Bigger projects will require more labor, which will increase costs. Here's the average cost of common landscaping projects:

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