Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Waukegan, IL

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

Although many homeowners have basic lawn maintenance knowledge, landscaping requires more advanced skills. Full-scale landscaping projects require heavy equipment and intense labor. More complex elements, such as fire put or irrigation systems, require construction and machinery expertise.

You can complete some landscaping projects yourself. 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.

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

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Waukegan Landscaping Company

Consider factors such as your budget and service needs as well as a company's experience when choosing a landscaper. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Different landscaping companies serve different lawn needs. Some focus on services that help with yard health and maintenance, such as mulching, controlling weeds, fertilizing, mowing, and pruning. These providers also often offer pest control and tree removal services.

Look for a full-service landscaping company if you're adding new outdoor elements (such as a fire pit) or planning a revamp of your whole yard. These providers specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, such as landscaping rock projects, gardening, and adding hardscapes. They can also help install fire pits, retaining walls, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements, and some even provide lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Your landscaper should have the appropriate licenses from the Waukegan city government. Contractors often also have advanced training and certification in areas such as outdoor design, lawn maintenance, 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 might also have certifications from professional organizations, including the National Association of Landscape Professionals and the Professional Landcare Network. While not mandatory, these certifications show a contractor's commitment to their profession. Landscapers typically have liability insurance to protect against bodily injury or property damage. Your contractor should be fully insured and bonded. Make sure to request a certificate of insurance or insurance numbers to confirm coverage.

Reputation and Reviews

We suggest using third-party review sites like the Better Business Bureau to get an idea of a provider's customer experience and overall reputation. Stay away from companies with largely negative reviews or frequent mentions of poor project results, unreliable customer service, or delayed projects. Try to find a company 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 designs and projects, preferably ones that are similar to your own ideas. Often, companies have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices can include waste management, eco-friendly material options, and water conservation, and they're an important consideration when hiring a landscaping company. Landscaping work shouldn't impact your current vegetation. Additionally, your contractor should choose native plants, such as swamp milkweed, wild columbine, and cup-plant. Ask your contractor about sustainability practices for projects like yours, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, waste, and water consumption.

Cost

Homeowners should request multiple quotes to compare companies and find the best services and pricing. Most companies offer free consultations to review your outdoor space, make recommendations, and discuss project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining your project costs, including labor and materials. You can use competing quotes to help negotiate a lower price.

Landscaping Costs in Waukegan

Generally, landscaping costs $30–$45 per hour in Waukegan. These figures vary based on project type and size. Less complicated work, such as gardening or mowing, will cost less than a larger project like resodding. Bigger projects necessitate more labor, which increases the total cost. Depending on your yard's size, the company may charge by the acre. The price will also be affected by the materials you choose. Here's the average cost of landscaping by project type:

Landscaping Service	Average Cost
Deck	$12,649 - $16,866
Landscaping Design	$2,293 - $3,058
Landscaping LandGrading	$436 - $2,615
Landscaping Mulch	$26 - $131
Planting FlowerBeds	$87 - $1,744
Planting Trees	$228 - $381
Sodding	$44 - $52
Swimming Pool	$33,129 - $87,182