My handmade job has taken me to hundreds of different types of property, where outdoor landscaping has involved excavation. With every job like this, it’s essential to check a number of things to ensure a smooth process, as mistakes can be costly.
Once you decide to take on a big outdoor project, there’s this rush of excitement that comes on, and you think about which materials you’ll use, you scroll through Pinterest to get ideas, and you start imagining what the finished result will be like. That’s all fine, but you shouldn’t get too caught up in the big picture because the boring stuff you forget to think about will come back to bite you later.
You might hit an unmarked utility because you didn’t take the time to properly check the soil, or your neighbour starts to complain because you’ve built over their property line. These aren’t disasters that happen once in a blue Moon but common mistakes that are the result of a lack of planning.
Before you grab your hammer, slow down and check some stuff. Keep reading to see what those are.
What to Check Before You Start Your Project
You have homework to do before you get to the fun stuff. You might not look forward to doing it, but unless you want the project to turn into a money pit, here’s what you need to do.
1. Check Property Boundaries and Local Regulations
Nothing will kill the excitement of a new project faster than finding out you’ve accidentally built on your neighbour’s land or violated a zoning rule. Before you break ground, check exactly where your property ends. A surveyor’s map or a call to your local council can save you from a world of problems later.
Once you know the boundaries, check local zoning laws and HOA rules. Even simple structures like fences can have height limits or setback requirements (how far they have to be from the property line).
2. Evaluate Soil Quality and Drainage
Let’s not kid anyone, soil is a boring detail, but it can make or break your project’s lifespan. Soil that has a lot of clay tends to hold water, and it shifts over time, while sandy soil probably won’t be able to support heavier structures.
Take a close look at drainage, too. Does water pool in certain areas after rain? If it does, it could lead to rotting wood, sunken pavers, or even problems with the foundation down the road. You can do a test by digging a small hole and filling it with water to see how quickly it drains.
3. Check for Utility Lines and Underground Hazards
If you hit a gas line or a water pipe, not only is it dangerous, it’s expensive. Before you dig, contact your local utility companies and have them mark out underground lines. This is a free service in many places.
You’ll also want to watch for hidden hazards like old septic tanks or tree roots that could interfere with foundations. If you skip this step, you risk serious damage, fines, and a very angry utility company showing up at your door.
4. Structural Complexity and Your DIY Skills
Be honest about your skill level and the size of your project. Smaller jobs like fences or sheds could be okay for an experienced DIYer, but if it’s a complex build like multi-level decks or large patios, you’ll need a professional to help you out.
It’s best to look up “deck builder near me” online and get in touch with a local pro and make sure not to cut corners on these bigger/more complex projects, or you’ll have to deal with safety hazards and expensive repairs. Plus, in some states, you have to be a licensed contractor to even partake in such projects, so the pros are sometimes the only option.
5. Analyse Sunlight and Shade Patterns
It’s easy to overlook how the sun moves across your yard, but this can have a huge impact on how you enjoy it, so spend a few days observing light at different times. Will your new patio bake in full sun all afternoon, or will your shed cast a shadow over the only sunny patch in your garden?
Think about how this changes with the seasons, too, because winter sun is lower and it can expose areas that stay shady in the summer. If you get this right, your backyard will be comfortable and usable all year.
6. Review Landscaping and Features You Already Have
Trees, shrubs, and even slopes can complicate your plans, so really look at all that’s already there. Roofs can interfere with foundations or cause pavers to lift over time, and removing them might require permission or professional help.
Think about how your new structure will fit into the current layout. Does it complement the flow of the garden, or will it feel awkward, like you just randomly plopped it down?
Conclusion
Hammer in one hand, shopping list in the other, and you’re ready to jump right into your project. But before you do that, take some time to get the boring stuff out of the way, or the project you’re so excited about might turn into a nightmare. If you’re looking for a helping hand, reach out to me to see where I can help. I offer a number of services that cover many outdoor projects.
The more you know before you start, the better the entire process will flow. Thanks for reading, Ben.
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