Do’s and Don’ts of a backyard renovation
This past year has opened many of our eyes to the beauty of spending time at home with our loved ones. We’ve seen a major rise in home renovations in 2020, with people trying to create a staycation environment in their backyard for them and their loved ones to enjoy for years to come! With this new-found appreciation for where we live, many homeowners are now thinking of finally going through with the backyard renovation they’ve been pushing back for years.
Know your purpose
Before breaking ground or even finding your landscape inspiration, you must first think about what you want out of this renovation. What is the purpose of it? What are your needs? Let’s be honest, if you’re a parent of four kids under 10, your landscape needs are going to be different than those of a couple without children who’s looking for relaxation in their backyard. Maybe you’re looking for an outdoor haven for your daily yoga sessions, or you’d like a lounge area to sunbathe while the kids are in the pool. Knowing your purpose will help you prioritize and stay on track during the renovations. It’s easy to get overwhelmed or carried away. Your purpose is like your anchor, reminding you what’s important and why you started in the first place.
Make your wish list
This brings us to our second point which is making your wish list. What are the non-negotiables for you? If you have children running around, your must-have feature may be a swimming pool. This wish list will allow your contractor and/or designer to better plan out your outdoor space. If you like to entertain, an outdoor kitchen, an outdoor fireplace, or even a hot tub may be essential to creating a host-worthy atmosphere! At this point, we’re still in the brainstorming phase. Write down everything you want, and we’ll figure out which ones match your budget later!
Estimate your budget
It’s always easier going into a landscape renovation when you have a clear budget set from day one. It helps your contractor and/or designer strategize and create the perfect finished product that matches your wants, needs, and most importantly, your budget. This is where you might cross off some of the elements on your wish list. Or, on the contrary, it may push you to cut elsewhere in order to keep those essential elements to your vision. You may even readjust your budget and decide to invest more to get the space of your dreams!
Find your contractor
This step can be tricky, especially if you haven’t had a referral. A backyard renovation can run smoothly if you’ve chosen your contractor correctly. However, it can also be a hassle if you’ve gone with an inexperienced landscape professional. In a sea of contractors, how do you find your perfect match? Kad Investments, LLC has years of experience in backyard renovations. We can handle your project from start to finish, so contact us and let’s get started!
Identify your challenges
Once that’s settled, we recommend that you identify potential project challenges: walk around your yard to see what issues could arise. For example, if you want a swimming pool, but are lacking space, consider a small dipping pool or even a hot tub! Unsure on where to place an outdoor kitchen? Make sure it is located near your patio door, making the back and forth from the indoor kitchen to the outdoor kitchen much easier. Not enough room for an outdoor fireplace? Consider a fire pit! Experiencing drainage issues? Get that sorted out first!. There are challenges with any reno, but the right contractor can help you navigate those challenges.
Pick your budget battles
Should your budget get tight, there are a few tweaks you can make to ensure you don’t have to compromise on the backyard of your dreams! For example, if a fireplace was on your wish list, you might consider adding in a fire pit instead. They’re much less costly and serve the same purpose! Is your dream of installing a swimming pool sending you over budget? Consider adding a small dipping pool. It keeps you refreshed without all the upkeep and investment of a swimming pool. It is also important to note that a landscape renovation can be done in phases. In fact, you can talk to your contractor about prepping the site for future add-ons; plumbing, gas and, electrical utilities before the paving work is done can save you time and money in the long run.
Keep an eye on the project
Even if you’ve found a trustworthy, experienced contractor, it’s important that you keep an eye on the progression of the renovation. Check with your contractor every day or two to see if the materials are what you ordered. Catching mistakes before installation avoids headaches, disagreements, and ensures your satisfaction. Verify the installation. Make sure the color distribution is not patchy, and the lines/seams between the stones run straight. Ask questions. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to verify the details with your contractor. You are your best quality control.
