How Much Does a Garden Makeover Cost?

Garden Makeover Cost: Average Expenses & Transformative Ideas for UK Homes

Budget for a garden makeover with our guidance and advice. A fresh look can enhance both your property's value and your enjoyment, and you don’t need to overspend to achieve it. Let’s explore the costs and possibilities.

In this Price Guide we will talk about:

1. Average Cost
2. Key Elements
3. Landscaping
4. Decking and Patios
5. Water Features
6. Planting and Turf
7. Additional Garden Makeover Costs
8. DIY vs. Professional Help
9. How To Save On Garden Makeover Costs
10. Connect with Available Garden Makeover Tradespeople on MyBuilder
11. FAQ: Common Questions

Cost Overview: Average Cost of a Garden Makeover in the UK

The cost of a garden makeover in the UK can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as garden size, scope of work, and material choices. On average, you can expect to pay between £5,000 and £15,000 for standard projects, while more elaborate designs may cost upwards of £25,000 to £50,000 or more.

Note: These costs often include both materials and labour, but it's important to consult with tradespeople to obtain more accurate estimates.

Garden Size	Average Cost
Small	£1,500 – £5,000
Medium	£5,000 – £15,000
Large	£15,000 – £50,000+

Get accurate estimates and detailed offers from verified garden makeover tradespeople. Post your job on MyBuilder today to connect with available garden maintenance tradespeople near you and receive local service for your project!

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Breaking Down the Budget: Key Elements in Garden Makeover Costs

Garden makeover involves numerous components that transform your garden. Each element contributes to varying aspects of the space’s aesthetic and functionality, and it's essential to consider the cost implications associated with each one.

Explore the costs of typical garden makeover elements for a clearer idea:

• Turfing: Laying new turf offers a fresh aesthetic to any garden you decide to enhance. Turf costs approximately £15 to £25 per square metre, determined by the type and quality of grass. Our guide to Turf Costs can tell you more.

• Landscaping: Often the backbone of any garden transformation and includes tasks like excavation and contouring. Landscaping can cost between £60 and £120 per square metre, depending on complexity.

• Decking: Suitable for creating outdoor living spaces, with costs ranging from £80 to £200 per square metre depending on the material used, such as timber or composite. Read more with our guide to Decking Costs.

• Planting: Selecting an assortment of plants and shrubs enhances biodiversity but varies in cost, depending on whether you choose affordable domestic plants or exotic varieties.

• Fencing: Important for privacy and security, fencing expenses range from £30 to £120 per metre based on material and design. Our Fence Installation Costs Guide will tell you more.

• Water Features: Adding elements like ponds and fountains can create a tranquil atmosphere. Curious about specific water feature costs? Learn more with our guide to How Much Does a Garden Pond Cost?.

How Much Does A Garden Makeover Cost? Landscaping Elements

Landscaping plays a crucial role in creating a garden makeover, providing both structure and aesthetic appeal. It encompasses a variety of tasks that transform an outdoor space into a personalised haven. From laying lawns to installing water features and creating seating areas, landscaping is essential in realising your garden vision.

Landscaping typically varies from £100 - £150 per m² for basic designs and can increase to as much as £400+ per m² for projects featuring bespoke elements.
We’ve broken down the common landscaping costs:

Task	Cost
Lawn installation	£10 - £25 per m²
Tree and shrub planting	£40 - £200 each
Pathways	£120 - £250 per m²
Irrigation systems	£500 - £2,000

Remember: Choosing the right landscaping tasks based on your priorities and budget is important for achieving the desired outcome while managing costs. For more information on costs, visit How Much Does Garden Landscaping Cost?.

Decking, Patios & Garden Makeover Costs

Enhancing your garden with decking or a patio can transform your outdoor area into a versatile living space. These additions not only increase the aesthetic appeal but also provide practical benefits, such as additional seating or dining areas. The cost of installing decking or patios can vary significantly, depending on the materials and the size of the area involved.

Consider: Your choice of materials will affect the cost and durability.

Material	Cost per m²
Softwood Decking	£30 – £50
Hardwood Decking	£50 – £100
Composite Decking	£80 – £150
Concrete Paving	£60 – £90
Natural Stone Paving	£80 – £120
Porcelain Paving	£100 – £150

MyBuilder Tip: When planning an outdoor space, consider integrating features like planters or built-in seating to maximise functionality without significantly increasing costs.

Get some inspiration with our Corner Decking Ideas.

Water Features: Garden Makeover Costs for Ponds, Fountains & More

Adding garden features such as ponds and fountains can greatly enhance your garden's aesthetic appeal. They provide focal points that draw the eye and create a sense of tranquillity.

The installation costs of common garden features vary based on their size, complexity, and materials.

We’ve outlined the typical costs associated with various garden features:

Feature	Cost
Garden Pond (basic)	£500 – £2,000
Fountain	£250 – £1,500
Barbecue Area/Outdoor Oven	£1,000 – £5,000
Rockery	£200 – £1,000
Waterfall Feature	£750 – £3,000

Note: Costs can rise significantly if additional landscaping or electrical work is required for installing these features. Always consider including potential extras in your budget to avoid surprises.

Average Cost of A Garden Makeover With Planting & Turf

Transforming your garden with vibrant plants and lush turf is a significant part of any makeover. The costs for these elements can vary widely, influenced by the types of plants and turf chosen. Incorporating a mix of flowers, shrubs, and grass can bring life and colour into your outdoor space.

Planting offers a diverse range of options, including annuals, perennials, and other affordable garden plants, while turf choices span natural grass to artificial alternatives.

Type	Cost
Flowering Plants	£5 – £30 per plant
Shrubs	£10 – £50 per shrub
Turf (natural grass)	£15 – £25 per m²
Artificial Grass	£50 – £75 per m²

MyBuilder Tip: Investing in quality soil and proper planting techniques can enhance plant growth and longevity, increasing their lifespan and minimising ongoing costs.

Additional Garden Makeover Costs to Consider

When planning a garden makeover, it is important to anticipate potential hidden costs that could arise throughout the project. Being aware of these expenses can help you manage your budget effectively and avoid financial surprises.

Don’t let these hidden costs catch you out:

• Labour costs: Account for specialist and general labour, as contractors may charge around £100 – £200 per day.
• Waste removal: Disposing of old materials and debris with services like skip hire typically costs £265+.
• Permits and planning permission: These may be required for certain structures and can involve additional fees. Note: Usually, planning permission isn’t required unless you’re building extensively.
• Utility adjustments: Modifying electrical or plumbing systems for new features can add to costs.
• Transport for materials: Bringing in specialised materials or heavy equipment could incur transportation charges.
• Unexpected repairs: Discovering issues like poor drainage or structural faults may incur repair costs.
• Soil testing: If needed, this can add to the overall expenses to ensure the soil’s suitability for planting.

Considering all potential costs, including these additional expenses, will ensure a smoother garden renovation process. To manage these efficiently, consulting a garden professional might be beneficial. Find out more about Low Maintenance Front Garden Ideas to further manage ongoing expenses.

How Much Does A Garden Makeover Cost? DIY vs. Professional Help

When undertaking a garden makeover, one key consideration is whether to undertake the project yourself or hire professional tradespeople. Each approach has distinct advantages, and the right choice depends on your budget, time, and expertise. Doing it yourself can be a cost-effective way to transform your outdoor space on a smaller budget, while tradespeople bring skills and efficiency that might be worth the extra cost.

MyBuilder Tip: Consider the scale of your makeover carefully. Large, complex projects will likely benefit from professional oversight, while simpler tasks could be manageable DIY projects.

DIY Garden Makeovers: Pros and Cons

A DIY garden makeover allows for personalisation and potential savings. However, it can be time-consuming and requires a certain level of skill.

Pros	Cons
Lower labour costs as you do the work	Requires significant time investment
Personal satisfaction from your efforts	Limited by personal skill and tools
Flexibility with timeline and budget	Potential for mistakes and additional costs

Taking a DIY approach lets you control every aspect of your garden's transformation. However, tackling tasks beyond your expertise can lead to errors, potentially costing more in the long run.

Remember: For large-scale work such as decking or structural changes, consulting a tradesperson can prevent costly errors and potential damage or injury.

For DIY inspiration, explore our Garden Layout Ideas.

Hiring Tradespeople for Garden Makeover: Is It Worth the Cost?

For many, hiring tradespeople, despite the upfront expenses, can prove to be an effective way to manage your project. They bring knowledge of design, suitable materials, and efficient execution, often resulting in a polished and durable garden.

Pros	Cons
Knowledge and workmanship quality	Higher initial costs
Access to specialised resources	Less personal involvement
Time-saving and efficient	Dependence on external schedules

Remember: Tradespeople can often navigate challenges, like planning permissions, more smoothly, potentially saving you from regulatory issues.

Hiring a garden tradesperson will save you time, energy, and resources. Discover available garden maintenance tradespeople on MyBuilder today, and post your job to get in touch with garden professionals!

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How To Save On Garden Makeover Costs

Creating an appealing outdoor space doesn't have to be expensive. With careful planning, you can achieve a garden makeover without overspending. Consider the following cost-saving strategies to transform your garden while keeping expenses in check.

• DIY elements: Take on manageable tasks like planting or constructing simple features to reduce labour costs.
• Reuse materials: Integrate reclaimed items such as timber or paving slabs to add unique charm at a lower price.
• Shop second-hand: Explore online marketplaces like Gumtree for affordable garden furniture and tools.
• Phased approach: Spread the makeover over several months or seasons to better manage your budget.
• Choose native plants: Opt for local plant species that typically require less maintenance and adjustment.

Revamp Your Outdoor Space: Connect with Available Garden Makeover Tradespeople on MyBuilder

Considering a garden makeover but unsure about the costs in the UK? Unlock your garden’s potential by posting your project on MyBuilder and connect with verified garden maintenance tradespeople to find your local professional. Benefit from transparent quotes and quick responses, ensuring you find the right fit for your budget and style. Don’t wait any longer—transform your outdoor space today with the help of MyBuilder!

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FAQ: Common Questions Readers Ask About Garden Makeovers

How long does a garden makeover take?

The duration of a garden makeover varies depending on the scope of the project. For a simple refresh, such as planting new flowers or shrubs, it might take a few days to a week. However, a more extensive transformation, involving structural changes like laying new turf, installing patios, or constructing features like ponds or pergolas, could take several weeks to a few months.

Does a garden makeover add value?

A well-executed garden makeover can add value to a property, potentially increasing its value by 5-20%, according to various surveys and reports. Features like mature plants, well-maintained lawns, and garden lighting are desirable. Creating outdoor spaces such as patios or kitchens for dining and entertaining can enhance the overall usability and appeal of a property.

How can I estimate the expense of a garden makeover for my specific needs?

To estimate the expense of a garden makeover, first identify the scope by considering factors like size, design complexity, and materials. Include both labour and material costs, and factor in additional expenses like permits if necessary. Online calculators on garden design websites can also help provide a ballpark figure based on your project specifics.

Do you need planning permission for garden renovation?

Generally, most garden renovations, like planting flowers, shrubs, and re-turfing, do not require planning permission. However, if your project involves building substantial structures, such as a large deck, outbuildings, or altering boundaries, you might need approval. Any renovations impacting listed buildings or within a conservation area often require permission. It is advisable to check with your local planning authority in the UK for specific guidelines before beginning your renovation.

What challenges might I encounter during a garden makeover that could impact the budget?

Challenges that could impact your budget include unexpected groundwork issues such as poor soil quality needing correction, or drainage problems. Weather delays can affect project timelines, leading to additional labour costs. If the project's complexity changes, requiring more materials or labour, this can also increase expenses. Proper initial planning and maintaining a contingency budget (typically around 10-20% of total costs) can help mitigate these challenges.