Garden Renovation Costs

In this article, we will discuss the various costs and issues that may influence your garden renovation process here.

So, if you want to give your garden a makeover, this article has everything you need to know, including how to hire and find a gardener.

How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Garden?

If your house has an outdoor space, you'll undeniably want to use it. But, of course, saying it is less complicated than doing it. Making your garden look fantastic is a big job that takes a lot of thought. It's also simple to put off, particularly as the weather changes. But, it is never too late to start caring for your garden.

Finding an average price of a garden renovation is difficult because the overall cost is determined by the size of the garden, the type of renovation desired, and the number of labourers required for the job. Whether it's a front garden renovation or back garden renovations, there are several costs to consider.

Let's take a look at the average garden renovations cost. The garden design cost for an impactful project on a big back garden of 100m² will usually cost £5,000 to £10,000. The cost is determined by the materials used, the labour charges, and the time required to complete the job. Therefore, if you have a budget, it is probably best to see what you have and what work you could get done for the price.

Lawns and plants, when done correctly, can make a huge difference. For example, a 50m² lawn costs about £700 to £900 in supplies and installation, or £14 per m². The turf costs approximately £20 per m², and you can save money by a bit of DIY.

Planting a few small trees around the garden will provide a nice frame for it and will cost you nothing. When in bloom, ornamental cherry blossoms cost £50 per tree and make an excellent decorative feature. Minor changes to your garden area can make a huge difference in your living space.

Generally, you'll need to employ a garden designer and a landscaper. On average, expect to pay £100 per m² for labour and materials. However, if you're happy with the overall look and want to focus on planting, the overall garden design cost could drop to £30 per m². Finally, the price will be determined by your financial plan, the size of your garden, and your lofty goals.

A 50m2 lawn might cost around £700 to £800 in supplies and installation, or £14 per m². You might want to try laying turf yourself because it is a fraction of the price, at around £3 per m².

The cost of garden restoration is affected by the type and size of the job, the amount of tradespeople involved, the ease of access, and your location.

Costs in the southeast of England (mainly London) are generally higher than the national average. However, in places such as the north of England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, the opposite is true.

Garden Renovation Prices

Garden Renovation Costs (Supply Only)

If the cost of redesigning your garden is a deterrent, you can do some of the work yourself. If you decide to renovate your garden yourself, you will save money on labour costs. That only leaves the supply costs or the items necessary to finish a garden renovation.

Here, we'll go over the various supply costs to know how much you'll need on average and what you'll need to buy to finish your garden makeover.

First, you'll need a lawnmower, which will cost between £40 and £300 depending on the model. Although it may appear expensive, having a lawnmower also saves you money by hiring somebody to cut your lawn.

Then you'll need a chainsaw, which will cost you between £11 and £90 depending on the type.

You may also need to buy a rake, which costs £10 to £40, a container, which costs £10 to £300, seeds for a flower bed, costing £1 to £40, a pre-grown plant, which costs £2 to £30, and soil, which usually costs £4 to £15.

A watering can costs £5 and £30, and a hand trowel costs £5 to £20. A spade and digging fork costs between £10 and £50, a hoe between £10 and £30, and fertiliser costs between £3 and £20.

Using gardening gloves would make your work easier and less painful - a pair will cost you between £0.50 and £20. Secateurs are an essential tool for gardeners, and they typically cost between £20 and £40.

A hard fork will cost between £10 and £30, and a hose will cost between £30 and £80 depending on what type you need for your garden.

A pressure washer will cost between £60 and £200.

There aren't many expensive supply costs, but you will need quite a few tools to complete a garden renovation project. As a result, before you start thinking about what you'll be doing and what you'll need to finish your job.

Additional Garden Renovation Costs

When renovating your garden, things may not go as planned, and you may have to go over budget. However, if you anticipate what may occur, you will already know the process and average price. As a result, we've created this section so you can see the extra costs of a garden renovation and be prepared.

Garden Decking

Garden decking costs between £1,200 and £1,800 for up to two workdays. This cost will vary based on the materials you select, the size of the decking, your location, and the length of the job.

The primary material you'll need is garden decking, which comes in various styles. Pre-treated softwood is the most popular material because it is the least expensive, with installation costs of up to £1,000 for decking covering 15m². For a more durable option, consider hardwood, which can cost up to £2,000 for handy professional work.

Another commonly used material is composite WPC decking, which costs about £1,600 for 15m². This has the advantage of being modern and low maintenance. PVC Plastic is another excellent option, typically costing between £30 and £40 per m², and providing an aesthetically pleasing decking substance with mould-resistant qualities.

Another factor to consider is a weed-proof membrane, which typically costs around £10 for a 20m² roll. An expert will use wood oil or decking preservative care to prevent further rotting, which could add £25 or more to your bill.

You must also factor in labour costs, depending on the time spent on the job and the materials used, as some are simpler to construct than others. However, typical labour costs range between £120 and £200 per day.

If the job includes removing your existing garden decking, you may also need to consider waste removal. The cost will vary based on how much waste needs to be removed, but a typical removal job costs between £10 and £30 per m² of waste.

Garden Shed

Garden sheds help you store and organise all of your gardening needs. Without a garden shed, you'll be made to evacuate garden tools and equipment out in the open throughout the garden, making them difficult to find, vulnerable to water damage, and easily stolen by burglars! Everything can be kept neat and dry in a garden shed, right where you need it.

A good shed will also enhance the general appearance of your garden by removing unsightly clutter, preventing your garden from looking like a junkyard! If you enjoy gardening, no garden is complete without a garden shed; a well-organised garden shed is an absolute must!

Installing a wooden garden shed costs between £500 and £1,200. A typical-sized metal shed would cost between £200 and £700. A standard-sized plastic shed installation will most likely cost between £285 and £700.

Building a Wall

Several factors influence the cost of building a brick wall in your garden. The two significant factors are the size of the wall and the type of bricks used. For example, a small 5m x 1.2m wall made of machine-made bricks can cost as little as £530. However, if made from handmade or reclaimed bricks, the same size wall could cost £1,100.

You have the option of having a thicker wall built. Walls with two brick skins will cost twice as much as the same size wall with a single brick skin. So, a garden brick wall will cost between £70 and £120 per m².

Garden Fence

Garden fence installation costs is determined by two primary factors: the amount of fence that needs to be replaced and the type of fencing chosen.

For example, if you only need a short section of fence, such as down one side of your garden, the installation will cost around £500 to £700 and take about a day. This would result in a 6-foot-tall fence in the most popular style.

If you need to fit the fence all around the entire perimeter of your garden and want a more modern look, the fencing cost could range between £2,000 and £3,000.

Laying Turf

New turf costs are relatively low - you can expect to pay between £2.40 and £6.90 per m², which equates to between £240 and £690 for 100m². The cost difference is due to the composition of the grass, and your needs will determine the composition you choose.

A durable turf is an excellent choice for gardens with boisterous children, active dogs, and active families.

Someone seeking the beauty of a perfect lawn, on the other hand, will prefer a more luxurious composition. A high-quality grass blend will include meadow grass, fescue grass, and ryegrass.

Meadow turf, which is rich in natural wild seed, is available. You can expect to pay around £25 per m² if you want to incorporate this into your garden.

Because many of the best turf forms are accessible online with standard shipping rates, the location of your property should not affect how much you pay for turf. However, you may be able to get a specific variety and pay a different amount at a local garden centre or DIY store in some areas.

Finally, you will pay different rates for your contractors, but £150 to £200 per day is a good starting point.

Garden Renovation Labour Costs and Timescales

If you want to employ someone to redesign your garden, you should know the labour costs involved. If you're on a budget, you should know how much you'll be paying tradespeople to come in and give your garden a high-quality renovation.

As a result, we will go over the tradesman costs for a garden renovation so you know exactly what to expect and give you an average cost so you don't get ripped off. This will only include the costs of the tradespeople, not any supply, material, or other costs.

Gardeners usually charge between £30 and £60 per hour of their care. However, gardeners' hourly rates will vary according to their location in the UK and previous experience.

A gardener costs around £110 and £180 per day. They rarely work alone, and the most common team size is two. A trainee, also known as a "labourer," may earn anything from the minimum wage to £100 per day. A two-person team should budget between £250 and £300 per day.

Even though they may start charging more and work faster, their knowledge and familiarity with their specialised equipment will result in a superior finish. If an accident occurs, their insurance will cover the costs, and you'll never be held liable if they are injured while using their tools. They have an incentive to do a good job due to their career and reputation and the possibility of repeat business and referrals.

Knowing when your garden makeover will be finished is exciting because it gives you something to look forward to. As a result, we've created this section to estimate how long it will take to complete your garden renovation.

It can usually take six months to a year or more from the first meeting with a garden architect to a fully built and planted plot. In addition, there are various times of the year when garden renovations are complex because the weather affects the day's work, making the process longer.

The months of April and May, on the other hand, are perfect for garden landscaping and tree planting, shrubs, and perennials. Your plants would have the chance to grow and adapt during the spring months before the summer and autumn. On the other hand, the fall is the best time to begin landscaping.

A tiny back garden should take four months from the first meeting to the completed garden. Four weeks for layout, two weeks for construction company tendering, six to eight weeks for patience, and four weeks for construction. In terms of time and cost, it's comparable to constructing a small addition to a house.

Cost Factors of Renovating a Garden

Many factors influence the overall cost of your garden renovation. Here, we will go over the different cost factors that could increase the overall cost of your garden renovation.

Number of Tradespeople

Most likely, you will only need one gardener for the job. On the other hand, Larger jobs may require the use of two or three workers. In these cases, your hourly labour cost would increase or triple depending on the number of contractors hired.

Of course, this would expedite the process, but based on how well the garden designers collaborate. It could end up costing more in the long run.

Location

Your location is another significant cost factor. For example, labourers charge higher rates in certain parts of the country, particularly the southeast and London. In contrast, contractors in Scotland, the north of England, and Northern Ireland typically offer lower rates.

What's Involved in a Garden Renovation?

Whether you're a homeowner or a business owner, if your garden has devolved into an unmanageable wilderness or simply needs a facelift, understanding the stages of transforming but rather regenerating your green spaces is critical to ensuring you get a first-rate result. We will walk you through the steps of a garden renovation.

Remove All Waste from The Garden

The old has gone, and the new has arrived. So, the first step in garden regeneration is to clear out any old and worn outdoor furniture, structures, stones, and any weeds or damaged grass.

You may find that you generate a lot of waste during this stage, so it's worth renting a skip to control the waste in one place and have it removed from your site by a professional company. Garden waste removal costs, on average, £200 depending on the volume of the waste.

The Soil Is Everything

Everything revolves around the quality of your soil. Good quality soil is critical for providing grass and plants with the necessary nutrients to thrive, so the soil must provide water retention, organisms, minerals, organic material, and stability. In addition, compost, grass, leaves, and manure can provide the organic matter that the soil requires to regenerate.

Planting seeds and creating flower features, in addition to your lawn, can add a pop of colour and beauty to your green spaces. Obtaining high-quality topsoil is therefore critical to the success of any garden regeneration.

Clean Up The Vegetation

Bushes and trees should be pruned. This makes them look neater now, but it also encourages better, healthier growth in the future. Check with your local planning authority if you intend to fall any trees to ensure they do not have attached protection orders.

Consider Borders

You also may discover that you’re walling or fencing has been overlooked, in which case it is worthwhile to replace them with new garden borders. Place old fencing and walling materials into your hired skip, keeping in mind to always put heavy objects at the bottom of the skip before placing lightweight items on top.

Attractive bordering is an essential component of good garden design, as it helps to create form and shape while also protecting your privacy.

Garden Borders Can Be Used to Decorate and Beautify Your Garden

Once you've figured out the basics, it's time to consider improving it with creative garden renovation ideas and creative landscaping ideas.

For example, gravel and other decorative stones enhance any soft landscaping elements and can add texture and warmth to your garden that can be used for flower beds, driveways, paths, and a variety of other applications.

Can I Renovate a Garden Myself?

We all want a lovely garden. They provide a private space to enjoy the outdoors, take advantage of sunny days, and socialise with our family and friends.

Gardens are also a fantastic place for kids to play and explore. Having your garden professionally renovated, on the other hand, is an expensive project.

Fortunately, if you're handy with a power tool and know a thing or two about plants, you might be able to renovate your garden without hiring a professional.

A DIY garden renovation is a great deal of work that will not be completed overnight. Expect a muddy garden for a while. A lot of research is required for a DIY garden renovation. There is so much helpful info and advice available on the internet!

You can find advice on everything from constructing a ground-level deck to constructing a raised garden bed online. YouTube tutorials are especially useful in teaching yourself how to do something you're unsure how to do.

Studying images of garden landscapes and visiting local garden centres will also provide you with ideas and aid in planning your garden renovation.

Even if you have a small garden, dividing the DIY garden renovation into small tasks will simplify your life and help you stay within your budget. For example, you could begin with your patio area before constructing a garden path or plant beds.

By breaking up the garden renovation, you will have more time to research each project and find the best materials at the best price.

Building Regulations & Planning Permission for Garden Renovation

Planning permission is not required for most gardening and landscaping projects. However, it is critical to be aware of the rules and regulations. If you proceed with work that requires planning permission, you may be forced to reverse or adjust the work at great expense.

Sheds

Timber sheds and outbuildings are frequently permitted development rights, so you won't have to submit a project proposal. However, there are some prohibitions on these buildings, including that they cannot be used as self-contained housing and cannot be more significant than 50% of the land surrounding the original house.

It can't possibly be any closer to the road than the main building. Solid brick outbuildings will almost always require planning permission.

Driveways

Paved driveways are also subject to restrictions. For example, if you use a permeable surface that allows water to run through, you won't need planning permission to place a new or replacement driveway. This means that driveways made of gravel, permeable concrete blocks, or porous asphalt will not require planning permission.

If the area is more significant than 5m², or you intend to use traditional non-porous surfacing, you must obtain planning permission.

Patios

Paving other house areas, such as the back garden, is not restricted. However, if you intend to do extensive landscaping, you should consult your local government. For instance, if you are adding a large patio and changing the height or slope of your garden.

Timber decking usually does not require planning permission if less than 30cm above the ground. However, you will need planning permission if decking and other extensions cover more than 50% of the overall garden area.

Landscaping In General

Most of the other landscaping and gardening projects will not require planning permission. For example, replanting or modifying flowerbeds, adding artificial and natural grass, or erecting a small patio are projects that do not need planning permission.

Consider the potential ecological effects of any landscaping or gardening projects, mainly if the surrounding area contains protected species. You must also follow any Tree Preservation Orders that apply to trees on your property.

Types of Garden Renovations

Garden renovations of various types can significantly impact your home. So, if you want to know about the various kinds of garden renovations you can have, this section of the article will tell you everything you need to know, including the benefits and drawbacks of the various garden makeovers.

Decking Cost

Decking is a popular outdoor material that can be used to develop a focal point in your yard. Installing decking is a great way to expand your living and enjoyable space while increasing your home's curb appeal and value.

The cost of building a deck is determined by the area to be covered and the materials used. Wood is the least expensive material. However, wood decks are prone to weather destruction and do not last very long, requiring frequent maintenance.

Another option is plastic decking, durable and low maintenance but more costly and frequently less appealing. The final option is composite decking.

This is weather-resistant, will last for decades, and is very easy to maintain. While they are expensive, finding and buying low-cost composite decking is possible.

A 15-metre square deck will set you back between £1,000 and £2,000. Before planning, carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of each decking style. Remember that if you are looking for cheap garden renovations, this may eventually cost you more long-term if it needs to be replaced.

Pros

✔ Garden decking comes in various options, including different materials and colours, giving a range of customisations.

✔ Quick to install compared to other garden additions, such as a stone patio, for instance.

✔ If installed correctly, garden decking can increase your home's value.

Cons

✖ Wood decking is not long-lasting and requires regular staining, sealing, and cleaning.

✖ Susceptible to weather damage if not properly maintained.

✖ Hardwood decking can be expensive, given the high upkeep required.

Artificial Grass Cost

Artificial grass has become increasingly popular because it has the same visual properties as natural grass but requires less maintenance. However, the price is higher, and more preparation is required before it can be placed.

Artificial grass can cost nearly £40 and £60 per m².

Pros

✔ No maintenance required (no mowing!), unlike real turf.

✔ Artificial grass gives off a quintessential "green" garden look.

✔ No watering or lawn maintenance is needed, reducing overall costs.

Cons

✖ Artificial turf is more expensive than real turf.

✖ Fake lawns can look just that - fake - and won't have a natural feel underfoot like real lawns.

✖ Artificial lawns can cause drainage issues due to the material.

Turfing

A healthy, well-kept lawn is commonly an essential part of backyard renovation. The cost of laying a new grass lawn is influenced by the turf's quality and the area's size to be protected.

Usually, the greater the grass grade, the higher the price. Grass can cost between £3 and £20 per m². If you hire an installation service, expect to pay around £600 for a 50m² garden, including labour and turf. The price will vary according to the type of turf you choose.

Lawns require regular maintenance, but if you are willing to do it yourself, you will save money in the long run.

Pros

✔ Real turf is very affordable, being between £3 and £20 per m², compared to artificial lawns at £40 and £60 per m².

✔ Natural look and feel underfoot.

✔ Great for natural wildlife as a habitat.

Cons

✖ Real turf can be expensive to maintain, especially if you encounter issues with the lawn itself or if it develops diseases.

✖ High water consumption, which can be an issue during droughts.

✖ Natural lawns can get damaged over time in harsh weather conditions.

Gardening

Plant-filled Garden borders are essential to any garden renovation. They're a great way to add colour, contour, aroma, and size to your outdoor space, connect sections, and create privacy.

Garden maintenance costs range from £200 per day, for jobs such as grass cutting, weeding, watering, hedge trimming, and plant pruning.

The cost of adding plants and trees to your garden varies widely depending on the types you choose and size. Do some research online or at the garden centre before deciding on a budget, and try to buy plants that will provide you with years of enjoyment to get the most value for money.

Pros

✔ Increases garden biodiversity, helping pollinators flourish.

✔ Potential to grow your own produce, such as fruit, vegetables, and herbs.

✔ Your garden will look lovely!

Cons

✖ Some gardens can be expensive to maintain, especially if they are larger than average.

✖ Requires manual labour to maintain, which might not be possible for everyone.

✖ Your garden is at the mercy of the outdoor elements, so you'll need to keep on top of the changing seasons.

Patio Cost

A patio is just a simple and practical way to boost the use of your yard by providing a durable and multifunctional space for sitting and socialising. Patios are typically priced by size, with a price per m² that differs depending on the material used.

A patio will cost between £80 and £90 per m², including digging and levelling the space, installing a membrane, stuffing it with cement and sand, laying the slabs, mortaring, and cleaning up.

Pros

✔ Patios require far less maintenance than full lawns or decking.

✔ If installed correctly, patios can add value to your home.

✔ It provides you with a welcome place to relax in your garden.

Cons

✖ Patios carry a higher upfront cost than real turf or decking.

✖ If installed poorly, patios can cause drainage issues with water pooling on the surface.

✖ Slabs can crack over time due to changes in temperature and natural ground movement.

Checklist: Hiring a Garden Renovator Near You

Expert gardeners have the abilities, experience, and equipment to make the most of your outdoor spaces while maintaining them.

• Consult your friends and neighbours. This is still one of the most dependable methods available. If your friends or relatives have previously used professional gardening services and are pleased with them, request their contact information. You may even be eligible for a special discount if you hire a recommended gardener.
• Observation made locally. You may notice a company van at a neighbour’s house and notice that their garden is well-kept. Get their phone number and call them.
• Look it up online. If you want to investigate your options, turn on your computer and search for local gardeners in your location. As a result, you'll get a lot more specific information and be able to create a decent online comparison.

FAQs

Sources

https://www.woodfordrecycling.co.uk/news/garden-renovation-your-step-by-step-guide/
https://www.culturesouthwest.org.uk/garden/top-tips-for-a-diy-garden-renovation/