Start with the “invisible” work—so your landscape looks great and stays that way
New construction landscaping is exciting because you’re not “working around” old problems—yet it’s also the moment when small decisions (like final grade, downspout routing, and patio base prep) can make or break the long-term performance of your yard. For homeowners in Beecher, Illinois and the surrounding Chicago Southland / Northwest Indiana area, a smart plan focuses on three priorities: water management, durable hardscape construction, and finishing touches that make the outdoors feel like a true extension of your home.
Why new construction landscaping is different (and why it matters)
With a brand-new home, the soil around the foundation is often recently disturbed and may settle over time. If landscaping is installed without a plan, you can end up with low spots, water collecting near the home, muddy side yards, and hardscapes that shift prematurely. The best approach is to treat your property like a system: roof water + surface grading + subsurface drainage + hardscape base prep all work together.
Local note: Many municipalities publish guidance and ordinances related to sump pumps, downspouts, and grading so stormwater doesn’t create hazards or impact neighboring properties. For example, some communities require sump pump discharge to be directed away from foundations and not onto public sidewalks/streets, and some prohibit concentrating runoff onto adjacent lots. Always confirm the rules that apply to your specific address and subdivision. (bensenville.gov)
Step 1: Get grading and drainage right before you “beautify” anything
If you only take one thing from this guide, make it this: water should move away from the home, away from structures, and toward an approved outlet—without dumping concentrated flow onto a neighbor’s yard. Good drainage planning also protects patios, retaining walls, and driveways.
Common new-build drainage problems
Low spots near the foundation, downspouts that dump water right next to the house, soggy back corners, and “hardpan” clay that prevents infiltration. In winter, poor discharge locations can also contribute to icing in walkways or drive approaches.
Drainage solutions that actually last
A combination of regrading, swales, catch basins, underground drains, and thoughtful downspout/sump routing. Many towns encourage or require discharging away from the foundation (often by several feet) and not onto public property. (bensenville.gov)
If you already know your lot holds water, schedule a consult specifically for Drainage Alleviation so the “fix” is built into your project from the start—not patched after the lawn is installed. You can learn more about Forest Landscaping’s drainage approach here: Drainage Alleviation & yard drainage solutions.
Step 2: Hardscapes first—because they set elevations and flow paths
Patios, walkways, retaining walls, and driveways should be designed with drainage in mind. Elevations matter: the finish grade, the patio height, step risers, and wall tie-ins all influence where water goes and how safe the space feels in every season.
Outdoor Living Spaces (patios + kitchens)
A well-built patio starts with a proper base and edge restraint, then uses slopes and (when needed) drains to keep water from sitting on the surface. If you’re considering an outdoor kitchen, plan utilities, clearances, and traffic flow early.
Explore options: Custom patio construction & outdoor kitchens.
Retaining Walls (function first, then style)
Walls aren’t just “stacked blocks.” Proper excavation, base prep, backfill, and drainage behind the wall are critical—especially on lots where grades change quickly.
Learn more: Retaining wall construction & repair.
Driveways & Pathways (curb appeal + performance)
In freeze/thaw climates, the base matters as much as the surface. Paver driveways and walks can look clean and high-end while handling settlement better when installed correctly.
See driveway solutions: Paver driveway installation & repairs.
Warranty awareness for pavers and walls
If you’re choosing Unilock products, working with a Unilock Authorized Contractor can add peace of mind. Unilock describes a 2-year workmanship guarantee (Peace of Mind Guarantee) for qualifying residential installs using 100% Unilock product, and a separate Transferable Lifetime Guarantee for the structural integrity of Unilock paver and wall products (registration required, limitations apply). (unilock.com)
A quick planning table: what to do now vs. later
| Project Element | Best Time to Do It | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Grading + drainage layout | Before planting + before hardscape final elevations | Prevents soggy turf, foundation water issues, and washouts |
| Patio / walkway base + edging | Early (sets the “finish grade” of the yard) | Keeps surfaces stable through freeze/thaw and heavy use |
| Low-voltage outdoor lighting | After hardscape lines are set; before final mulch/planting cleanup | Highlights architecture, improves safety, and reduces trip hazards |
| Planting + final bed shaping | After drainage + hardscape | Plants thrive when water moves predictably and beds don’t erode |
| Hardscape restoration / sealing (future) | After settling period or when staining/weeds appear | Extends life, improves appearance, and reduces maintenance |
If your home is newly built but the pavers are already showing issues (joint loss, low spots, or shifting edges), Forest Landscaping’s maintenance program may be a fit: Paver cleaning, sealing & restoration (PaverSaver).
Step 3: Add the features that make the yard feel “finished”
Outdoor lighting that’s practical (and looks upscale)
Lighting is one of the fastest ways to improve safety and curb appeal—especially on steps, along walkways, and at driveway edges. A well-designed low-voltage system also lets you enjoy the patio after sunset without harsh glare.
Learn more: Landscape lighting installation.
Water features that fit modern maintenance expectations
Pondless waterfalls and recirculating streams are popular because they deliver sound and motion without turning into a weekly chore. The key is sizing, access for service, and building it where it complements views from inside the home.
Options: Backyard water features & installation.
Putting greens for real use, not just looks
A backyard putting green can be a genuinely functional feature if the base is built correctly, the breaks are designed intentionally, and fringe/landing areas are planned for chips and practice.
Details: Backyard putting green installation.
Beecher, IL local angle: what homeowners should plan for
Beecher-area homes experience four-season wear: freeze/thaw cycles, heavy spring rains, and periods of summer heat. That combination makes base preparation and water control especially important. A few practical planning tips that help locally:
Local planning tips
To see the range of design/build services available for new builds—landscaping, lighting, water features, patios, driveways, and more—visit: Forest Landscaping services.
Ready to plan your new construction landscaping the right way?
Forest Landscaping designs and builds custom outdoor living spaces for Beecher, the Chicago Southland, and Northwest Indiana—with owner involvement and a focus on lasting workmanship. If you want a clear plan for grading, drainage, and a finished outdoor space that feels intentional, schedule a consultation.
FAQ: New construction landscaping
Should landscaping wait until the home “settles”?
You don’t have to wait, but you should build with settlement in mind. That means prioritizing drainage and proper base preparation, and understanding that minor grading touch-ups may be needed after the first season—especially in newly disturbed soils.
What’s the best first upgrade for a new backyard?
Start with a functional “spine”: patio + walkways + correct drainage. Once the elevations and flow are right, everything else—from planting to lighting—looks better and performs better.
Why is my new yard still holding water?
Common causes include low spots after backfill settles, compacted subsoil, downspouts discharging too close to the house, or an outlet path that’s blocked. A drainage plan may combine regrading with subsurface drainage to move water to an appropriate discharge point.
Do I need permits for patios, walls, or outdoor kitchens?
Sometimes—especially for taller retaining walls, electrical work, gas lines, or work tied to drainage systems. Requirements vary by municipality and subdivision. A design/build contractor can help identify what’s needed and coordinate the process.
What’s the difference between product warranty and workmanship warranty?
Product warranty covers the manufactured materials themselves (under specific conditions). Workmanship warranty covers the installation quality. With Unilock, there’s a product-focused Transferable Lifetime Guarantee (registration required) and a separate Peace of Mind Guarantee that addresses qualifying workmanship-related major structural defects for a set period. (unilock.com)