Your backyard is a valuable and often underrated space. It gives you the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors without needing to leave the comfort of your own home.
But there are several things that you should consider before you start redesigning and renovating your yard:
Planning
If you’re simply renovating and replacing what is already in your yard then you probably won’t need to consider the planning issues.
However, if you are considering doing something different, particularly building a structure, then it is important to check with your local planning office to ensure that you are allowed to do this. If not you’ll have to submit plans and follow due process.
It is worth checking first!
Underground Utilities
The next step is to look at what you have under your yard. This might be a question you have never asked before but, if you are planning on doing any digging; now is the tie to ask.
It is advisable to have a construction surveyor professionally examine and plan your back yard. Yu will then know if there are any utilities buried under the ground.
If there are not only will you probably want to avoid them when digging you’ll have to check if there are any access rights. This can affect your desired renovations.
Usage
Perhaps the most important part of renovating your yard is to consider what you will be using the yard for.
If you like to kick or throw a ball round with your children you need space for this. But, if you are more interested in entertaining then you need to create a decked or paved area. Ideally this should be next t the kitchen where you’ll get the sun late into the evening.
There must be space for your table, chairs and perhaps even an outside kitchen; this will help your outside space to look good and be really functional in your daily life.
Doing It Yourself
It is also important to consider your own skill set and whether you are intending to complete the renovations yourself.
This is generally a cheaper route but it will probably take longer to complete. After all, you’ll probably be working as well to earn a living.
Getting a professional to complete your backyard renovation will ensure it is done quickly and the work is covered by a guarantee.
Budget
It is vital that you consider the budget you have available for your back yard renovation. This will dictate whether you can afford professional help and how much of your vision can be achieved.
It is worth noting that some items can be created with alternative materials. For instance, your decking could be made from pallets which can be found for free at local warehouses.
It will require more effort to merge these together and make a strong deck but the cost will be negligible.
When calculating your budget consider where you can and are willing to make changes or adjust your approach. This will help you come to a reasonable price for your yard renovation.
Once, you’ve worked out the cost of your renovation add half again then see if your budget can sustain this; it is likely to be the true cost.
