RG Almanza Landscaping - Frequently Asked Questions
Investment & Pricing
What does landscaping cost in the Chicago area?
Chicago area landscaping costs vary significantly based on project scope and complexity. Small projects like garden bed updates or basic patios might start around $2,000-$8,000, while comprehensive property transformations with extensive hardscaping, grading, pools, outdoor rooms, and complete landscape design can reach $50,000-$200,000+.
Factors affecting pricing:
- Property size and accessibility
- Soil conditions and drainage requirements
- Material quality and sourcing
- Seasonal timing and weather delays
- Municipal permit requirements
- Existing landscape removal needs
- Design complexity and custom features
We provide detailed estimates after evaluating your specific property and goals, ensuring transparent pricing with no surprises.
How should I budget for a landscaping project?
Follow the strategic investment approach: allocate 10-15% of your home's value to total landscaping, phased over 2-3 years to optimize seasonal timing and spread costs effectively.
Prioritize foundational elements first: invest 60% in hardscaping, drainage, and structural plantings that define your space, with 40% for decorative elements and seasonal interest.
Plan for Chicago-specific costs: reserve 15-20% of your budget for winter protection, spring cleanup, and weather-related contingencies unique to our challenging climate.
Why do landscaping costs vary so much between contractors?
Quality and expertise differences create price variations. Experienced professionals with Chicago-specific knowledge, proper licensing, and quality materials command higher prices but deliver superior long-term results and fewer costly problems.
Project scope interpretation varies. Some contractors provide basic installation while others include comprehensive site preparation, drainage solutions, soil amendments, and ongoing support - these differences significantly impact pricing.
Material quality affects costs substantially. Professional-grade plants, hardscape materials, and proper installation techniques cost more initially but provide better durability through Chicago's extreme weather cycles.
Landscape Design & Planning
How does the landscape design process work?
Our design process includes five structured phases: initial consultation and site analysis, conceptual design development, detailed planning with specifications, material selection and sourcing, and installation coordination with timeline management.
Client collaboration drives successful outcomes. We need your input on lifestyle needs, aesthetic preferences, maintenance comfort level, and budget parameters to create truly personalized solutions that reflect your vision.
Professional expertise ensures practical results. Our designers contribute technical knowledge about Chicago's climate, soil conditions, drainage requirements, and plant selection to ensure your vision translates into a thriving landscape.
Should I hire a landscape designer or architect?
Landscape designers typically handle residential projects focused on plant selection, garden layouts, and moderate hardscaping. They're ideal for most homeowner projects and offer cost-effective design solutions.
Landscape architects handle complex projects requiring structural engineering, extensive grading, drainage systems, and municipal approvals. Choose an architect for steep slopes, significant drainage issues, or projects requiring professional engineering stamps.
Project complexity determines the right professional. Simple garden updates need designers, while comprehensive property transformations with extensive hardscaping benefit from architectural expertise.
Can you work with my existing landscape?
Existing landscape integration maximizes your investment. We evaluate current plants, hardscaping, and infrastructure to determine what can be preserved, relocated, or enhanced rather than completely replaced.
Mature tree preservation requires careful planning. Existing trees provide immediate impact and value - we design around healthy specimens while addressing any that pose risks or conflict with your vision.
Phased renovations allow gradual transformation. We can update your landscape in sections, preserving functioning areas while upgrading others, minimizing disruption and spreading costs over time.
Lawn Care & Maintenance
What lawn care services do you provide?
Comprehensive lawn care includes regular mowing, edging, fertilization, weed control, aeration, overseeding, and seasonal treatments tailored to Chicago's growing conditions and grass types.
Pricing factors include:
- Lawn size and terrain difficulty
- Grass type and condition
- Service frequency and scope
- Seasonal add-ons required
- Property accessibility
How often should I fertilize my lawn in Chicago?
Chicago lawns typically need 4-6 fertilizer applications annually: early spring nitrogen boost, late spring balanced feeding, summer slow-release application, and fall preparation treatment.
Soil testing determines specific needs. Chicago's clay soil often requires pH adjustment and organic matter addition beyond standard fertilization - we test annually to optimize your program.
Organic vs. synthetic options available. Organic programs cost 20-30% more but provide long-term soil health benefits, while synthetic programs deliver faster results at lower initial cost.
What's the best grass type for Chicago lawns?
Cool-season grasses thrive in Chicago's climate. Tall fescue offers drought tolerance and durability, while fine fescue works well in shaded areas. Kentucky bluegrass provides classic appearance but requires more water and care.
Grass selection depends on usage and conditions. High-traffic areas need durable varieties, shaded spots require shade-tolerant types, and slopes benefit from deep-rooted options that prevent erosion.
Overseeding improves existing lawns. Adding appropriate grass varieties to existing lawns can improve density, disease resistance, and appearance without complete lawn replacement.
Tree Services
How do you assess tree health and provide treatment?
Professional tree health assessment includes examining trunk condition, branch structure, leaf health, pest presence, and root system evaluation. We identify diseases, structural weaknesses, and environmental stresses affecting your trees.
Treatment options vary by condition. Common services include disease treatment, pest management, soil improvement, structural pruning, and nutrient supplementation to restore tree health and prevent future problems.
Tree service costs depend significantly on tree size and species, proximity to structures, disease severity, access difficulty, and disposal requirements. A small ornamental tree pruning differs greatly from removing a large oak near power lines.
When should different tree species be pruned?
Pruning timing varies by species and purpose. Oak trees should be pruned in late fall/winter to prevent oak wilt disease, while maples can be pruned in late winter before sap flow begins.
Flowering trees have specific requirements. Spring bloomers like crabapples should be pruned immediately after flowering, while summer bloomers can be pruned in late winter without affecting bloom quality.
Emergency pruning happens year-round. Storm damage, dead branches, and safety hazards require immediate attention regardless of optimal timing for the species.
How do you protect existing trees during construction?
Tree protection begins before construction starts. We install protective fencing at the drip line, establish equipment exclusion zones, and coordinate with contractors to minimize root system damage and soil compaction.
Root protection requires careful planning. Construction near existing trees often requires root pruning, soil protection, and sometimes specialized construction techniques to preserve tree health.
Post-construction tree care accelerates recovery. Trees stressed by construction benefit from specialized fertilization, watering programs, and health monitoring to ensure survival and continued growth.
Specialized Services
What outdoor lighting options do you offer?
Outdoor lighting design includes pathway lighting for safety, accent lighting for features, security lighting for protection, and entertainment lighting for outdoor living spaces. LED systems provide energy efficiency and longevity.
Lighting costs vary significantly based on the number and type of fixtures, transformer and control system complexity, trenching and wiring requirements, fixture quality and materials, and property accessibility. A simple pathway system differs greatly from comprehensive architectural lighting with smart controls.
Smart lighting controls allow seasonal adjustments, automated schedules, and remote management through smartphone apps, maximizing convenience and energy efficiency.
Do you install water features and maintain them?
Water feature installation includes design consultation, excavation, liner installation, pump and filtration systems, and landscape integration. Options range from small fountains to large ponds and waterfalls.
Maintenance programs keep water features functioning properly. Services include pump maintenance, water quality management, seasonal startup/shutdown, and winterization to prevent freeze damage.
Water feature costs depend on size and complexity of design, excavation and site preparation requirements, pump and filtration system specifications, quality of materials, and electrical and plumbing installation needs. A simple birdbath fountain requires much different investment than a custom pond with waterfalls and fish.
Can you integrate fire pits and outdoor kitchens?
Outdoor living space integration requires coordination of hardscaping, utilities, drainage, and safety considerations. We design fire features and cooking areas that complement your landscape while meeting safety codes.
Permit requirements vary by municipality. Most Chicago-area communities require permits for permanent fire features and outdoor kitchens - we handle the application process and ensure code compliance.
Outdoor living costs depend on size and complexity of design, material quality, utility connections required, permit and inspection costs, and site preparation needs. A simple fire pit differs significantly from a complete outdoor kitchen with grilling station, storage, and dining areas.
Do you build sports courts and play areas?
Sports court construction includes site preparation, proper drainage, surface installation, and surrounding landscape integration. Options include basketball courts, tennis courts, and multi-sport surfaces.
Play area design prioritizes safety and age-appropriate features. We install playground equipment, safety surfacing, and surrounding landscapes that create engaging, secure environments for children.
Sports and play area costs depend on court size and surface material, drainage and site preparation requirements, fencing and lighting needs, equipment quality and safety features, and accessibility compliance requirements. A simple basketball pad is much different from a full tennis court with lighting and fencing.
Before & After Project Care
How should I prepare my property before installation?
Pre-installation preparation includes marking underground utilities, clearing access routes for equipment, protecting existing features you want to preserve, and ensuring pets and children have safe areas during construction.
Utility marking is mandatory. Call 811 at least 48 hours before installation begins to mark gas, electric, water, and cable lines. This prevents service interruptions and safety hazards during excavation.
Interior preparation helps minimize disruption. Remove valuables from areas near construction, protect vehicle parking areas, and establish communication protocols with our project manager.
What should I expect during the installation process?
Installation phases progress logically: site preparation and rough grading, hardscape installation, utility work (irrigation, lighting), soil preparation and planting, and final cleanup and establishment care.
Daily activities include equipment arrival, material deliveries, active construction work, and end-of-day cleanup. Projects typically run 7 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Saturday, weather permitting.
Communication keeps you informed. Our project manager provides daily updates, addresses questions promptly, and coordinates any changes or unexpected issues that arise during installation.
How do I care for my new landscape immediately after installation?
New plantings require consistent watering during establishment. Most plants need daily watering for the first 2 weeks, then gradually reduced frequency as root systems develop over 6-12 months.
Hardscape settling is normal. New patios, walkways, and retaining walls may require minor adjustments during the first season as materials settle and compact naturally.
Avoid heavy traffic initially. New sod, plantings, and hardscape installations benefit from limited foot traffic for 4-6 weeks to allow proper establishment.
How will my landscape evolve over time?
Landscape maturation creates changing beauty. Plants reach mature size over 3-7 years, seasonal interest develops as perennials establish, and the overall design becomes more cohesive and impactful.
Maintenance needs change over time. New landscapes require intensive establishment care, while mature landscapes need less frequent but more specialized maintenance to preserve health and appearance.
Long-term planning guides evolution. We provide guidance on when to expect major maintenance needs, potential updates or additions, and how to adapt your landscape as your lifestyle changes.
Permits & Municipal Requirements
Do I need permits for my project in Chicago and surrounding suburbs?
Permit requirements vary significantly by municipality and project type. Chicago requires permits for tree removal on parkways, major hardscaping, and irrigation connections. Basic planting typically doesn't require permits.
Suburban requirements differ substantially. Skokie requires permits for tree removal and major grading. Evanston has strict tree preservation ordinances. Oak Park requires permits for retaining walls over 4 feet. We handle applications for all area municipalities.
We manage the permit process completely. Our team understands requirements for Chicago, Skokie, Evanston, Oak Park, Arlington Heights, Schaumburg, Des Plaines, Park Ridge, Naperville, and other communities.
How long do permits take in different areas?
Processing times vary by location and season. Chicago typically processes permits within 2-4 weeks, with tree removal permits taking 7-10 days. Spring applications take longer due to high volume.
Suburban timelines range from 1-4 weeks. Skokie averages 10-14 days, while Evanston can take 3-4 weeks for tree-related permits. Complex projects require additional time for review.
Plan ahead for permit delays. We recommend starting permit applications 4-6 weeks before desired installation dates, especially for spring projects when offices are busiest.
Commercial Services
What commercial landscaping services do you provide?
Commercial services include property maintenance programs, seasonal cleanup, snow removal, landscape installation, and renovation projects for office buildings, retail centers, and institutional properties.
Maintenance programs ensure consistent appearance. We provide weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly service schedules tailored to your property's needs and budget, with priority given to high-visibility areas.
Commercial service costs depend on property size and complexity, service frequency requirements, seasonal service needs, insurance and bonding requirements, and multi-year contract terms.
Do you work with property management companies?
Property management partnerships provide streamlined service delivery. We work directly with management companies to coordinate maintenance schedules, emergency responses, and capital improvement projects.
Standardized reporting keeps managers informed. Monthly reports include service summaries, seasonal recommendations, and budget planning for upcoming needs across your property portfolio.
Emergency response capabilities ensure property protection. Storm damage cleanup, irrigation repairs, and safety hazard removal receive priority response to maintain property safety and appearance.
Can you handle municipal and institutional projects?
Municipal project experience includes park improvements, streetscape enhancements, and public facility landscaping. We understand public bidding processes, prevailing wage requirements, and municipal specifications.
Institutional projects require specialized expertise. Schools, hospitals, and government facilities have unique requirements for safety, accessibility, durability, and maintenance that we address through appropriate design and installation.
Bonding and insurance coverage meets institutional requirements. We carry comprehensive general liability, workers compensation, and bonding appropriate for public and institutional project requirements.
RG Almanza creates outstanding landscapes and hardscapes throughout Chicago and surrounding suburbs including Skokie, Evanston, Oak Park, Arlington Heights, Schaumburg, Des Plaines, Park Ridge, and Naperville. Our comprehensive services ensure your outdoor investment thrives in our unique climate while delivering exceptional value and beauty.