What is hardscaping? Hardscape refers to hard landscape materials built as environmental structures that are incorporated into your landscape. As hardscaping can get costly fast, creating a budget is one of the most important parts of planning your outdoor project.

Unless you have limitless money (and we all wish we did), deciding on a budget and sticking to it is the best way to approach designing your outdoor oasis.  

Here are a few tips to try as you begin developing your outdoor design and corresponding budget.

Stop to Take Inventory

The first step of any outdoor project is not just digging in (contrary to popular belief). The first step is to make a list, and we mean more than a mental one, of what you already have and what you want to keep and incorporate as you move forward. This is the point where you might be surprised at the gems you have around your yard, like overgrown plants that just need care or tucked away fixtures that might need a revamp – this is the time to see the potential already present. Also, find ways to repurpose materials such as bricks or railings.

Hire a Professional.

We’ve all seen the design shows, but the truth is that doing any kind of renovation project on your own is probably going to end in tears. If you want to avoid costly mistakes from the jump, hire a professional to design and execute your project the right way. Experts have a lot of – wait for it – expertise! Professionals are there to help you discover the best design for your space and see things that you may be surprised to find out can work for your space!

In addition, a professional can help you carve out a master plan and even save you money. You may not always be able to see potential problems (For example, an issue with drainage systems or impervious paving), but a trained professional will be able to save you time, money, and (perhaps most importantly) major headaches.

Don’t Be Coy About Costs.

Any renovation project is not the time to be shy about money. Know what you want to spend off the bat and talk about that budget upfront with the team you are hiring.

Get more than one estimate. The right budget for your landscaping job can add as much as 15% to the value of your home. What’s not to love about that?

Splurge on the “Maximum Value” Features.

Yes, you have a number in mind of how much you want to spend. That’s highly recommended, but leave a little room for some leeway for the things that matter most; these are investments well-spent. Consider the features that you will get the most use out of and keep you coming back to enjoy that space frequently. It’s a must-have item vs. the nice-to-haves. Go big on your must-haves and scale back on your nice-to-haves.

In the long run, whatever you choose for your space and however you go about it is your decision. But to get the most out of your yard renovation, prioritize your needs, set clear financial goals and boundaries, and get trusted professionals to help.