27 years. After studying Landscape Construction in college, I worked for a major construction company in London for 3 years. After moving to Chicago in 2000, I worked for a boutique design/build company before starting LSW in 2002.
Finished and stamped concrete, tuck-pointing, asphalt, fences, planting, sod, irrigation, and maintenance.
Why do I need a design?
A design enables you to visualize the intended space. It also allows us to provide an accurate estimate.
How do I get a design ?
Email us! We have been collaborating for over 20 years with the most talented designers and architects in Chicago and the North Shore.
Why do you charge for a consultation?
To provide a detailed and accurate estimate, we need to spend time visiting the site, evaluating the site, and analyzing existing grades and levels. We take measurements to draw a base plan of the layout. At that point we can provide a rough estimate. The base plan is not a design, but a rough sketch that assists in establishing a budget and to see if you want to move forward to a full design, if one is needed. Once we do have a design, we then provide a proposal and contract. Just like a plumber or electrician often charges a small call-out fee to diagnose the problem and determine the solution, we do the same for your outdoor space.
What is the process?
The first step is for you to provide information by filling out and submitting our form. Photos of the existing site are always helpful.
The second: We will determine if a full design is needed off the bat, or if a consultation makes more sense.
If a design is needed, we will happily refer a designer we have worked with to meet and provide a plan and map out the area. Once a design is provided, we can begin the pricing process.
If the project is a "lift and replace" within the same space/dimensions, then we will do a consultation (call out) for a fee. At the consultation we can assess the project, make recommendations, and develop a base plan and a rough sketch and discuss budget/pricing.
What about permits?
Homeowners are responsible for obtaining any necessary permits. Most often the permit process will require a formal design, and we can provide the necessary certificates of insurance and bonds.
When can you start?
The "usual" question, with several factors affecting the response. It will depend on where we are in the process, of course. Current projects in process, weather and supply availability can affect the answer. In general we try to make the entire process efficient for all parties involved, which is why we request that our form be completed to start, so we can all arrive on the same page quickly. We typically work on a first-come, first -served basis and cannot "hold" dates.
Why are you more expensive than others?
When comparing apples to apples, I may not be! The simplest answer is that I always try and do the job right. If you work with LSW, know that I will be present on-site as the owner and I want to ensure that work is being performed to the proper standards.
We work very diligently to assess the site for any potential issues so we can address things like pitch and drainage. Most often we encounter existing patios that hadn't taken such things into account, with water pitching toward the house, drainage issues from inattention to levels, improper base installation, for example. It's important if you are seeking several bids, to be sure that you are truly comparing apples to apples with quotes. Is the other contractor addressing these items, or simply reinstalling?
Doing things right includes carrying the proper insurance coverage to protect my company, any employees, and homeowners. Most homeowners are unaware that the state of Illinois requires any company that has one or more employees to carry workers' compensation insurance. If a worker is injured while working on your property, and the contractor you hired does not have workers' compensation coverage in force, there is the possibility that you could be held responsible. Proper insurance is not cheap. Wether you work with LSW or not, I urge you to request proof of insurance (ask for a certificate of insurance) from any contractor. Look for general liability, workers' compensation, and commercial auto coverage (if needed).
We are an Authorized Contractor for Unilock and a Techo Pro for Techo Bloc. These two companies have programs which require submissions of work, etc that they review for quality. They require proof of insurance for these programs and have stringent vetting processes, and we are honored to be part of their programs.
The saying that "you get what you pay for" tends to be true.
What is the best way to get started ?
Email is the best. I am busy on site during the day and e-mails are the most efficient way to communicate.
