FAQ
Landscape Design and Build FAQ
Answers to the questions North Shore homeowners ask most before a landscape project.
Questions About Landscape Projects on the North Shore
Design and Build Process
What does design and build mean?
One company designs the project and builds it. North Shore Landscape Design & Build draws the plan, helps you choose materials and then builds the yard with our own crew, so you work with one team from start to finish.
Do I need a plan before building a patio or wall?
A plan is what keeps the project on budget and on site: it sets the size, slope, materials and drainage before any digging starts, and it is what village permits are based on.
How long does a landscape project take?
It depends on the size of the project, the permit and the weather. Most of the time on site goes into excavation and the base. Your estimate includes a schedule for your project.
Do I need to be home while you build?
No. We need access to the yard and a way to reach you with questions. We walk the finished project with you at the end.
Permits and Timing
Do I need a permit for a patio in Northbrook?
Yes. The Village of Northbrook requires a permit for a new patio, with a zoning worksheet, a tree protection agreement and a plat of survey. A patio that adds more than 400 square feet of new hard surface also needs civil drawings.
What about permits in other North Shore towns?
Each village sets its own rules for patios, walls and grading, and Highland Park and Winnetka have extra rules for ravines and lake bluffs. Checking them is part of planning every project.
When is the best time to build?
Most hardscape is built from spring, once the ground thaws, through late fall. Planting is best in spring and early fall.
Can you design over the winter?
Yes. Winter is a good time to design: with the plan and permit ready, the build can start as soon as the season opens.
Materials and Care
Pavers or natural stone?
Both last on a well-built base. Pavers come in many colors and patterns and are easy to repair. Natural stone such as bluestone or limestone has a classic look and usually costs more.
How do I care for a paver patio?
Sweep it, rinse it, and top up the joint sand when it wears low. In winter, use a plastic shovel blade and a de-icer that is gentle on pavers, such as calcium chloride.
Why do patios heave in the winter?
Water under the patio freezes and expands. A compacted gravel base, a slope away from the house and edge restraints keep water moving out, which prevents most heaving.
Costs and Service Area
How much does a paver patio cost?
National cost guides put most paver patios at about $8 to $25 per square foot installed. Size, material, access and base work set the price for your yard.
How much does landscape design cost?
National ranges from Lawn Love put a landscape design plan at about $1,955 to $7,220 for the design alone. In a design and build project, the design is part of the project estimate.
Which towns do you serve?
We are based in Northbrook and work across the North Shore, including Glenview, Deerfield, Highland Park, Winnetka and Wilmette.
How do I get an estimate?
Send the form on any page or call [PHONE]. Tell us your address and what you want to build, and we will get back to you to set up a site visit and an estimate.
Free estimate
Still Have a Question?
Send the form or call [PHONE], and we will answer it and talk through your project.