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Sketch out your ideas.
So you are no Picasso, who is? This is an important step in the process. Take some graph paper and roughly sketch out your ideas. Take measurements, are there curves? Whoops, forgot about the heirloom rose that is right there, need to move the wall forward two feet. Add some plants to the sketch, get a real feel for what you are looking to accomplish. It is much easier to erase paper than to take out a wall because it did not quite fit. Your local library, maybe even your dealer, should have landscape books you can peruse to get some ideas. If you are not comfortable sketching out your ideas, have a professional landscaper come in and assist with ideas and drawing up the plans.
Budgeting.
No one likes to talk about money, but with today’s wide variety of materials available, everyone can find something that fits within their budget and tastes. Landscaping is expensive and there are many materials and supplies you will need in order to install even the simplest of projects. Some of the basic items are: crushed rock and washed sand, rental equipment, drain pipes, landscape fabrics, the hardscape materials and concrete adhesives to name just a few. Really take some time and budget correctly, add some hedge incase you underestimate.
Don’t over do it.
It is easy to get caught up in the moment. We all do it. Landscaping is hard work, the results payoff but you need to budget your time wisely. Take into consideration the scope of the project, if it is a large task, break it up into chunks, so if the family vacation or the weather interferes you can still feel like you have accomplished something and you can tackle the other portions when time allows.
Materials.
There are many choices you can make in the market today. The homeowner can choose from a wide variety of products, colors and textures. Find what works for your design ideas and what fits in your budget.
Tools.
Make sure you have the proper tools ready and available. This will cut back on frustrations when it comes time to hand tamp the base and you already have the tool. Add these costs into your budget; call the local rental agency and research prices. The right tools will lead to a successful install, which will lead to a lifetime of enjoyment.
Take your time.
We could all use more time. Do not hurry your project, and do not cut corners, it will catch up with you in the long run. Making 100% sure your base is level will give you a professional finish on the job. One the neighbors will be envious to view each day.
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