Spending time outside can do wonders for your mental and physical health. And what better way to increase your time spent outdoors than to improve your own outdoor space?

Whether you’re planning to redecorate your patio, add a deck to your backyard, install a pool, or enhance your garden, outdoor renovations can have just as great an impact on your home as indoor improvements.

As with any home improvement project, however, mistakes with outdoor renovations are common. That said, if you know what to look out for along the way, you can avoid these mistakes, saving yourself a great deal of time, money, and effort in the process.

Read on to learn about some of the most common mistakes homeowners make during outdoor renovations and how to avoid them!

1. Not Setting a Budget

Though outdoor renovation projects aren’t typically as expensive as those indoors, few are free. And, depending on the types of projects you have in mind, you could be looking at spending tens of thousands of dollars.

With that in mind, having an outdoor renovation budget is essential. Without a budget, you could spend far more than you meant to or end up with a half-completed project due to lack of funds.

As with any budget, don’t forget to account for emergencies and unexpected expenses. It’s a good idea to add a 20% buffer to your budget so you can address potential problems along the way. At worst, you’ll have money left over at the end! 

2. Not Having a Plan

Once you have an overall amount you’re willing and able to spend, you can begin to create a plan that fits your budget. Write down a realistic list of projects you’d like to complete and an estimated cost next to each item.

Pro tip: when in doubt, overestimate your costs. It’s better to be relieved by a bill or estimate than shocked.

By having a clear vision of your finished outdoor space before you begin, you’re far more likely to have a yard you’re happy with at the end. Not to mention, changing your mind halfway through can be expensive and time-consuming.

If you’re unsure and in need of some outdoor renovation inspiration, this article can help!

3. Not Using the Right Equipment

With your list of projects in hand, do some research into the types of equipment necessary to complete each. Using improper home renovation equipment is both dangerous and ineffective.

If you’re new to outdoor renovations, there might be more equipment needed than you think. For example, it’s easy to think a simple garden installation could be done with nothing but your hands. In reality, however, it requires a trowel, pruning shears, a hose, a garden rake, and an angled shovel at a minimum.

4. Trying Too Much DIY

There’s nothing wrong with taking on a few DIY projects during your outdoor renovation. In fact, going the DIY route is a fantastic way to save money and add your own unique touch to your space.

That said, it’s important to know your limits. Trying too much DIY and getting in over your head can lead to disastrous results.

There are certain projects that should always be handled by a professional. Outdoor residential lighting, for example, should be handled by an electrician unless you’re simply changing a bulb or a fixture. Anything dealing with plumbing also falls into the professional-only category.

5. Using the Wrong Contractors

When you do hire a home renovation service, choosing the right one is essential. Don’t be afraid to spend time researching and interviewing potential contractors, as well as collecting estimates.

If you can, it’s always better to use a contractor who comes with a recommendation from someone you trust. Reach out to friends and family members to see if anyone has a contractor they enjoyed working with.

6. Rushing Your Projects

It’s understandable that you want to start enjoying your new outdoor space as soon as possible, but rushing through renovation projects is a great way to end up with shoddy results. As with your budget, give yourself plenty of breathing room when drafting your timeline.

Whether you’re tackling a project on your own or hiring a professional contractor, quality takes time. Go slow and be thorough. It might be frustrating at the moment, but you’ll thank yourself when you have a gorgeous outdoor space.

7. Not Filing Permits

You don’t need permission to plant a flower or arrange an outdoor living area, but don’t assume that all outdoor renovations can be done without building permits.

Every county is different, so take the time to reach out to yours before you start on your projects. They should be able to give you a list of renovations that require a permit to complete.

Now, as tempting as it may be to sneak in an outdoor renovation without a permit, refrain from doing so. You could be hit with major fines down the road, your county might even force you to tear down all your hard work.

Avoid These Mistakes With Outdoor Renovations to Create the Yard of Your Dreams

Enhancing your outdoor space will not only improve the look of your home but will help you and your family get even more enjoyment out of it as well.

While making mistakes with outdoor renovations isn’t the end of the world, they can put a serious dent in your wallet and your happiness with the finished product. By using this guide, you’ll be able to avoid these mistakes and get your dream yard that much sooner.

Looking for more tips and tricks for improving your home’s outdoor spaces? Be sure to check out our blog!