Yard Grading & Drainage solutions that look incredible, drain properly, and last for decades in Chicagoland weather.
Let’s build something amazing
Many homeowners struggle with standing water, soggy yards, basement moisture, or erosion that damages landscaping and threatens foundations. Without proper grading and drainage systems, water continues to pool, grass dies, patios settle, and foundation problems worsen over time, leading to expensive structural repairs.
As a leading drainage contractor in Chicagoland, H&M Gardening specializes in comprehensive water management solutions. We design and install drainage systems that Chicagoland homeowners rely on to eliminate standing water, protect foundations, and create dry, usable outdoor spaces. Our engineered approach addresses root causes, not just symptoms, ensuring permanent solutions.
H&M Gardening handles complete drainage projects from initial site analysis through final system testing. We engineer solutions that work with your property’s natural topography and direct water where it belongs.
Subsurface drainage systems that collect and redirect groundwater away from problem areas using perforated pipe and gravel trenches.
Complete property regrading that creates proper slope away from foundations and eliminates low spots where water collects.
Surface water collection systems with grated inlets that capture runoff and direct it to drainage outlets.
Shallow vegetated channels that direct surface water flow across properties to drainage outlets.
Stabilization systems, including riprap, erosion fabric, and plantings that prevent soil loss on slopes.
Exterior drainage systems that protect foundations from water infiltration and hydrostatic pressure.
We don’t just install drains; we engineer complete water management systems. Every project includes thorough analysis, proper system design, and professional installation that solves problems permanently.
Solving drainage problems requires more than digging trenches and laying pipe. H&M Gardening brings engineering expertise, 30+ years of experience, and comprehensive problem-solving to every drainage project.
Submit an estimate request form. Share your goals, budget range, and project timeline with our team, and we will schedule an in-person consultation.
We will meet for an in-person estimate to walk the property, review your project in detail, discuss your goals, take measurements, talk about your budget, and set up a customized 3D design.
We create a custom 3D design tailored specifically to your home, needs, and budget, along with a detailed and transparent estimate. Our goal is to bring your vision to life before construction even begins so you can see exactly what to expect. With no surprises, no confusion, and full alignment from the start, we ensure every detail matches your expectations.
With over 30 years of experience, our team of specialists transform your vision into a thoughtfully designed outdoor living space. From initial concept through completion, we oversee every aspect of the process with precision and care delivering a seamless experience and an outdoor living space crafted for long-term beauty, functionality, and enjoyment.
Most single French drain systems take 2–4 days from excavation to final restoration. Comprehensive drainage projects with multiple systems, catch basins, and regrading typically take 1–2 weeks. Large whole-property solutions may take 3–4 weeks, depending on complexity and weather conditions.
Excavation and trenching temporarily disturb affected areas, but we restore all disturbed spaces with topsoil and seed or sod. Most grass recovers within 4–6 weeks. We take care to minimize impact, work efficiently, and restore your property to a better condition than before the drainage problems existed.
French drains typically need to be 18–24 inches deep to effectively collect groundwater and provide adequate cover. Drains must also maintain a minimum 1% slope (1 inch per 10 feet) to ensure proper flow. Deeper drains may be needed in areas with high water tables or to connect to municipal storm sewers.
If water pools on the surface due to low spots or poor slope, regrading alone may solve the problem. If water saturates soil, creates soggy conditions that persist for days, or appears to come from groundwater sources, you likely need subsurface drainage systems. We assess and recommend the most effective solution during consultation.
French drains and underground systems require minimal maintenance—typically inspection every 3–5 years to ensure outlets remain clear. Catch basins should be cleaned annually to remove sediment and debris. We install inspection ports for easy access and provide maintenance guidance at project completion.
If municipal storm sewers are available near your property, we can often connect to them with proper permits and approvals. Not all properties have access to storm sewers, and some municipalities have restrictions. We evaluate options and handle all coordination with local authorities.