Thinking about giving your outdoor space a little upgrade? Maybe you’re dreaming of a cozy deck, a lush garden, or a brand-new patio where you can kick back and relax. Whatever your vision is, starting an outdoor project is exciting – but it can also be a bit overwhelming. So before you dive in, here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll want to know to get it right from the start.

Define Your Vision: What’s Your End Goal?

You shouldn’t break ground or bring out the contract until you think about your perfect backyard space. What are you actually after? Is it a peaceful gardening haven, a family grilling spot, or just a little patio to have that first-morning coffee outside? The clearer you can define what you want for your outdoor project, the more your decisions will support you from the beginning.

Stuck? Brainstorm some ideas. Look at online photos or create a mood board, even a simple sketch on paper. These steps will help to focus your style and give you a better idea of what you’re working towards. When you’re satisfied that the concept is right, you’re ready to move on to the next step.

Budget Wisely: Make Your Money Work for You

Outdoor projects can be loads of fun, but they’re by no means cheap. Making a budget is one of the very first practical steps in helping you keep things in check. Research the average costs for projects like decks, patios, or even small landscaping jobs. Don’t forget to leave some room in your budget for unexpected expenses, either – things like soil issues, extra materials, or even those last-minute “must-haves” can add up in a big hurry.

If you feel that the costs are pretty high, do not worry—there is financing available. You may also consider home improvement financing or saving up to gradually develop your budget over time. Thus, you will be prepping yourself for a project you can afford and will not compromise on quality.

Local Rules Matter: Check the Permits and Regulations

Some projects outside of a house require permits. Not the most glamorous part of a project, but it’s a must. Many times, local zoning laws will restrict how structures can be placed in relation to property lines, or even what types of material are used in certain areas. A quick phone call to your local government office or an email to their website can save you a lot later on.

Getting the right permits is essentially getting the green light from your city – the legal surety that you won’t end up tearing down all that hard work because of something minor.

Think about the space. Materials matter.

Every yard is a little bit different, so it is good to get an idea of the lay of the land before one starts. Does your yard have a rock for soil? Does it sit in perpetual shade or full sun all day long? These are things that would determine what materials and plants will work best for you.

For example, an attractive wooden deck could be vulnerable to mildew and demand additional maintenance if it sits atop a spot that gets a lot of shade. Shade can be quite wet; concrete or composite may better suit a high-moisture area. If you do your job right with materials, and whatever Mother Nature has in store for your deck, you’ll know that it’s going to endure for many years.

To DIY or Not to DIY?

Now, the big question: do it yourself, or call in the pros? It’s so much fun to do it yourself, and of course, a little easier on the wallet. For most people, a small garden, basic outdoor furniture setup, and even painting can easily be done. But sometimes, for more complex tasks – like building a deck, installing electrical lighting, or major landscaping – it might be wise to consult a professional.

Consider this: if it’s a job requiring skills you’re not comfortable with or one that requires a license that you’re not sure how to obtain, then it’s probably best left to the pros. And oftentimes, a pro can also get the job done quicker and with fewer kinks in the chain. Plus, if you want a custom job, you can easily rely on a custom deck builder to fulfill your dreams.

Timing: Plan Around the Seasons

When is a good time to start a project? Timing can really make or break outdoor work. You might be depending on building seasons that vary from area to area. You wouldn’t want to begin a large-scale landscaping project before the onset of the rainy season, would you? Pouring concrete during a freeze isn’t such a good idea, either.

One of the best times for milder climates is usually spring or very early fall. For colder areas or extremely hot areas, time your work to correspond with the weather. Avoid getting caught in the rain when you can; this way, you get better results without any longer delays.

Safety First: Make It Last and Keep It Safe

Projects outside are as much about longevity as they are about looks. Safety will be especially noticed: slip-resistant patio surfaces, safety-rounded edges on decking material, and weather-proof surfaces that will not be damaged by extremes. Who wishes to go through broken or unsafe constructions several years later?

While this may bump up the initial cost a tad, adding some quality and safety features pays dividends in the long run by keeping your space functional and enjoyable for the whole family.

Maintenance Preparation: Keep It Looking Great

Once completed, the outdoor space will need upkeep. Outdoor projects won’t just sit pretty without some TLC. Decks may need to be stained or sealed every so often, plants need regular watering and care, and patios may require occasional power washing to be in top shape.

Also, plan for maintenance right from the beginning. Outdoor spaces are often easy to forget and need regular care and attention. Allocate a small budget for maintenance to ensure your space will remain looking like new for years to come.

Wrapping It All Up: Enjoy the Journey

Planning an outdoor project can be daunting, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity to create something you’ll enjoy for years to come. Once you have defined your vision, set a solid budget, checked all the permits, and prepared for upkeep, then you are setting yourself up for success. Sometimes, just a little bit of effort in the short run can make quite the difference in turning your backyard into a beautiful and functional area where you would want to hang out.