Common questions

We begin with a site consultation to review your property, discuss goals, evaluate drainage and elevation concerns, and explore material options. We then prepare a detailed proposal and design recommendations tailored to your space and budget.

In many cases, yes — especially for patios, retaining walls, pavilions, pergolas, driveways, and HOA submissions. A plat helps us verify layout, property lines, setbacks, and permit requirements.

Yes. We regularly work with HOA communities throughout the western suburbs and can assist with architectural review submissions, material sheets, plats, and supporting documentation.

Yes. When required, we assist with permit applications and coordinate with local municipalities to help ensure the project is compliant.

Scheduling varies throughout the season. Spring and summer projects often book several weeks or months in advance, so early planning is recommended.

Quality hardscape installations require extensive excavation, proper base preparation, drainage planning, premium materials, skilled labor, equipment, disposal costs, and long-term structural considerations. Proper installation protects against settling, movement, and premature failure.

We focus on long-term quality, communication, professionalism, and proper installation methods — not shortcuts. Our goal is to build projects that last and elevate your property value.

Yes. Financing options may be available for qualified customers through third-party financing partners.

Most projects require a deposit to secure scheduling and material procurement. Final payment terms are outlined within each proposal.

We primarily install premium products from Unilock and other high-quality manufacturers known for durability, aesthetics, and long-term performance.

Pavers offer superior flexibility, easier repairability, stronger visual appeal, and better long-term performance in freeze/thaw climates compared to standard poured concrete.

Permeable systems allow water to infiltrate through the joints into a specialized stone base below, helping with drainage, runoff reduction, and winter performance.

Any outdoor surface can shift if improperly installed. Proper excavation, base preparation, drainage management, and edge restraint systems are critical to long-term performance.

Yes. Polymeric sand helps stabilize joints, reduce weed growth, and minimize insect intrusion while improving overall appearance.

Improper drainage creates hydrostatic pressure behind walls, which can eventually lead to movement or failure. We incorporate proper drainage practices to help protect the structure.

Yes. We regularly design drainage solutions including downspout extensions, catch basins, dry creek beds, grading improvements, and French drain systems.

Depending on wall height, location, and municipality, permits may be required. We help guide customers through that process.

Yes. We design and install outdoor kitchens, fire features, seating walls, lighting systems, pergolas, entertainment areas, and custom outdoor living environments.

In many cases, yes. We install landscape and hardscape lighting including under-coping lights, stair lighting, accent lighting, and roofline systems.

Yes. We install both attached and freestanding structures depending on the project layout and municipal requirements.

Yes. Sunset Services provides a workmanship warranty on qualifying installations. Warranty details are outlined within each proposal.

Not always. Some surfaces benefit from sealing while others may not require it. We recommend sealing based on the specific material, age, and condition of the installation.

We recommend occasional cleaning, joint sand maintenance when necessary, and avoiding harsh deicing salts during the first winter on new concrete installations.

Work performed by others may void workmanship warranty coverage on affected areas.

Yes. We are fully insured for residential and commercial work.

Yes. Sunset Services is proud to be a Unilock Authorized Contractor and holds additional hardscape-related certifications.

We primarily serve the western suburbs of the Chicago area including Aurora, Naperville, St. Charles, Geneva, Batavia, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Barrington, and surrounding communities.

Yes. Visit our gallery and our social pages to see completed projects, renderings, and ongoing installations.