Landscaping Guide – Order of Works
It is important, when planning and organising your landscaping work to arrange the different tasks in the right chronological order. A thoroughly planned design is key to efficient completion of works. Without a good plan it can be a case of two steps forward, one step backwards.
Another consideration is access to areas – for example, if you are accessing the backyard through the front, it is ideal to work from the rear forwards so as not to damage completed works delivering materials or completing messy tasks.
This guide will explain the ideal order for landscaping works, however please remember that every case is different so this guide is not an absolute – if you would like to discuss the best way to plan the landscaping for your garden, please contact us on 0421 173 446 today.
1. Planning and Budgeting
There is no point going ahead with a job you cannot finance – nor is it a good idea to let your budget force you to compromise your plans to the point of dissatisfaction.
2. Earthworks
Major earthworks are generally the starting point for most landscaping jobs – if required.
3. Underlay piping
If reticulation or other water, gas or electricity supply is required to pass underneath paving or retaining walls you should either pass the piping or cabling directly under at the required depth (use a licensed tradesman unless it is for reticulation), or use 90 mm drainage pipe as a conduit.
4. Walls and bordering
Walls and borders outline the shape of the garden and define the different areas.
5. Paving or other hard surfaces
Once the walls are in place it is usually time to install the paving or other hard surfaces, such as concrete or decking. The level of these is usually determined by the house if they are adjacent to it, or previously constructed walls or steps. The paving and walls both define the shape of the lawn and garden areas.
6. Reticulation
Before lawns and gardens are installed it is always wise to install the reticulation system, both for efficiency of the job and to give your plants and lawn the best chance of survival.
7. Garden beds & Planting
At this stage it is ideal to do the soil prep and the planting, this may require numerous journeys over the future lawn area, best done before the lawn is installed.
8. Mulch
Mulch is best laid after planting to avoid mixing it in with the soil. Mixing mulch with the soil is detrimental to the health of the plants.
9. Lawn
Your lawn is best seen as the finishing touch and the final task in any given area. Since it is important to prepare the soil so it is very level it is best to do the whole job in one go. Once installed it is best not walked on by anyone, (especially dogs or kids who are inclined to run) for at least a month to give its roots a chance to sink into the soil.