Expert tips on planning your next backyard project.
Turning dreams of lounging in your private backyard oasis into reality has, well, blossomed. Renovations and master creations of outdoor spaces have taken off in the last few years. With lumber prices slowly coming down, a new deck or pergola could be yours. Here are some things to consider before starting your next backyard project.
Inspiration
Sit back and daydream a bit about your ideal backyard. What features does it have? A resort-like pool with a cabana, top notch greenery, outdoor chef’s kitchen? Perhaps an unlimited budget could accommodate such a wish list. The main goal during this exercise is to tap into how a dream backyard would make you feel and adjust those concepts to your budget. A nook on the patio with a comfortable chair where morning coffee can be enjoyed while basking in the sunlight, for instance. Put together a list of must haves, nice-to-haves and items you’d be willing to compromise on. A budget and timeline will get you there.
Where to build?
Not all home purchases require a land survey or real property report, but if you have one, this would be a great time to consult it. Learning the boundaries of your land can really help if you don’t have a fence delineating where your space ends and your neighbour’s begins.
Gas lines
Whether changes are being made to an existing structure, or the project is brand new, it’s what’s under the earth that matters. Buried natural gas and utility lines should be located before digging. Accidentally hitting one can have huge consequences. Visit digsafecanada.ca to find out more.
Permits
Owning a home doesn’t necessarily mean you can do anything to the structure and land. Zoning regulations impact what you can change relating to your property.
Obtaining proper permits is crucial before beginning any construction. It establishes the scope of the job and ensures that fire safety, structural standards and zoning requirements are met. Home Insurance can also be impacted if work is done without permits on your property. Examples of building projects that need permits include cabanas, decks or outdoor kitchens and bathrooms (because of plumbing).
Once you sell your property, permits give comfort to potential buyers that work at your property was completed safely and legally. Permits also puts the onus on contractors work according to plan and to code.
Landscaping
Spend time in your backyard to get a feel for light patterns and keep seasonal changes in mind. Which areas provide shade and which feel the warmth of the sun? Start by analyzing protected spots and those that might benefit from protection from the elements. Factor in any existing items to be incorporated into the new design.
Contractors
Those with the skills to complete their backyard projects on their own may find a huge sense of joy accomplishing something so rewarding. Consider saving money by giving your old fence a makeover. Sanding it down and adding a fresh coat of exterior paint goes a long way.
But when it’s time to call in the experts such as landscapers, designers and building contractors, it’s important to do your due diligence. Think about interviewing three of each. Make sure recommendations are backed by solid references and reviews.
Having a welcoming and natural setting to retreat to in your backyard may add value to your home and some good old joy too.
Adapted from DLC Marketing
Photo Credit: Randy Fath on Unsplash.com