Spending time in an outdoor space is highly important for many homeowners. Backyard remodeling can transform your otherwise boring lawn into an oasis and entertaining space that your family and friends can enjoy. But while you may have countless backyard design ideas floating around in your head, a strict budget can make those ideas seem totally unrealistic. There’s no doubt that backyard and patio remodeling can be a big investment, but it’s one that has an excellent ROI. And if you’re looking for ways to save money on your backyard remodeling project, you’ll want to check out the three tips below.
- Use Native Plants
It’s likely that your garden and patio design ideas include some kind of plant life. But did you know that you can actually save money by using plants that are native to your region? Rather than bring in expensive, foreign plants — which will likely cost more and may not fare well in your climate or soil — you should consult with local gardening businesses to choose native flora that will flourish in your area. You’ll be putting money back into your community and will likely get a better price. Plus, you won’t have to replace plants that refuse to grow in your region. - Make Your Own Compost
Landscapers call compost “black gold” for good reason: it’s one of the best ways to fertilize your lawn or garden — and it’s free and easy to make. Just take organic food scraps (that would have otherwise ended up in the trash) and put them in a pile or device for composing. Add a bit of water and wait for the results. You can use it in lieu of mulch or top soil to help your plants and grass grow. Instead of wasting money at the gardening store, you can use the amazing material you make right at home. You’ll also be implementing a more eco-friendly practice by not wasting that organic trash. - Use Energy Efficient Lights
Many backyard remodeling projects will use beautiful light fixtures to illuminate pathways, create ambiance, and add safety measures. When you decide on light fixtures, aesthetics typically come into play, as does the cost of the lights themselves. However, you also need to consider the added electrical costs of operating these lights. You could be adding a lot to your energy bills without realizing it! Save on your monthly payments by opting for energy saving lights. You may also want to think about using these lights only when you’re in your backyard space.
Keep in mind that going the DIY route can save you money in the short term, but it can also lead to problems down the line. It’s best to work with a home remodeling contractor for the big projects to ensure safety and efficiency; then, you can implement your money-saving tips along the way. Do you have a favorite money-saving secret for backyard remodeling? Share it with us in the comments!