If you’re looking to get the most out of your summer, a backyard renovation project might just be in the cards.
After all, you spend a lot of time with friends and family in the backyard, and it’s natural to think about how to maximize both the functionality and the beauty of your property.
Here’s some concepts and ideas to keep in mind as you start to plan your new project.
What are your landscape project goals?
First and foremost, you should define what you want to accomplish with your new landscape. Are you looking to create more spaces to relax, or do you need to add a little more fun to your backyard? Do you want to use landscape features to improve a sense of privacy from neighbours? Or are you dealing with any annoying drainage issues that need to be fixed?
Sitting down and determining the priorities will help you stay on track, especially when there are so many choices or landscape features to consider.
Make sure you have all necessary permits
While your landscape contractor will help with this process, it’s good to know about the legal steps required before getting your building project underway. Depending on the scope and location of the project, you’ll need to make sure there are proper permits and that all the planned work can be completed logistically.
What will the new backyard landscape include?
Naturally, you’ll need to consider both your needs and your budget to determine the full scope of what is possible. And then also, the size of your backyard will influence what features can be included.
- Patios and Decks: For functional places to lounge and enjoy each other’s company. An upgraded patio is a real treat when it comes to entertaining guests.
- Walkways: With so many different choices of material, walkways are a very functional and also aesthetically pleasing option for a backyard renovation.
- Retaining Walls: Claim back some space and manage soil erosion with well-planned retaining walls that also serve as a beautiful feature in themselves.
- Outdoor Kitchens & Fire Pits: The warm, soft crackle of a fireplace and the delicious aroma of a meal on an outdoor kitchen is a huge plus for any backyard.
- Pools & Spas: The centrepiece of any backyard is a beautiful pool or cozy spa, always a favourite for family and guests alike.
- Gazebos & Pergolas: Escape the rain or enjoy the shade in an outdoor structure furnished with seating.
- Gardens & Softscapes: Don’t overlook the value of beautiful gardens weaving between features, complete with colourful plants and delightful aromas.
- Landscape Lighting: Both for safety and beauty, lighting features make your backyard come to life at night and provide a warm, cozy glow.
How will you handle maintenance?
A beautiful landscape takes work to stay beautiful. Gardens, patios and hardscapes can quickly fall into disrepair or look unkempt without a plan for regular maintenance.
Whether you’re ready to tackle the maintenance yourself or if you want to bring in a company to help keep things looking neat and tidy, it’s important to have a handle on what the maintenance requirements will look like.
Get a clear scope and schedule for the project
Before the shovels go into the ground, make sure you have a clear schedule and budget from your landscape contractor. This outlines key milestones and gives a transparent path to the goal.
Make sure to know what parts of the project are included and any unknowns that can be accounted for.
Time to get started!
Once all the questions are cleared up and confirmed, it’s time for the work to start! Having a landscape company like VS Landscape come in for an open and honest consultation is a great way to learn more about the process and any potential costs.
If you have any additional questions or if you simply want to get started with a project, reach out to us today!