6 Backyard Projects You Should Skip—They Cost More Than You Think, Landscaping Pros Say

When the nice weather arrives, so does the inspiration and urge to dive into a new backyard project. It’s the season of spending more time outside, and who can blame you for wanting to create an outdoor living space meant just for that? Nothing beats a great DIY, but some backyard projects just aren’t worth the money.

If you’re weary about sapping your home improvement budget, we spoke with three outdoor renovation experts to share the gardening and backyard projects that you should skip this season and what to do instead.

Oversized Water Features

Nothing quite adds to the serenity of your backyard oasis like a water feature. However, larger fountains, ponds, and springs are generally not worth it.

“Oversized water features are expensive to install, prone to leaks, and almost always become maintenance headaches,” says general contractor Louis Vierra.

Outdoor renovation expert Dotan Trabulsi also adds that these can attract algae, bugs, and debris—plus issues with any pumps within the system. Instead, he suggests trying a small recirculating fountain. If it’s the ambiance you’re after, focus on better lighting.

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Luxury Outdoor Kitchens

A lavish outdoor kitchen may seem like a dream, but they’re rarely worth the major dent they put in your wallet.

“Unless you’re hosting weekly parties, most homeowners use them two to three times a year,” says Vierra. “A pergola or small structure with good airflow and shade can get more use than a $25,000 kitchen.”

Both Vierra and Trabulsi pointed out that they’re prone to serious wear and tear from weather and climate factors, leading to expensive maintenance and upkeep.

If you love al fresco cooking and dining, you don’t have to give up on your outdoor kitchen goals completely. It’s just a matter of skipping unnecessary touches, like granite countertops, built-in ovens and stoves, or mini fridges.

“Use modular components and invest in a quality grill, a prep table, and good shade,” says Trabulsi.

Large Areas of Artificial Turf

A no-mow turf may seem like the perfect solution for grassless backyards, but large patches of it are often not worth the money. Plus, it won’t give you the same vibrance as real plants. Not to mention artificial turf is bad for the environment and doesn’t allow pollinators and other local critters to thrive.

“It seems low-maintenance, but it traps heat, often smells in warm climates, and requires costly prep work to drain correctly,” says Vierra.

There are other alternatives to this type of fake lawn. In cooler climates, native grasses and moss gardens are beautiful. Hotter landscapes, on the other hand, can make the most of cacti and xeriscaping.

Real Lawns in Hot Climates

A grassy backyard often feels like a must for any homeowner, but that’s not true anymore. Not only are grass lawns not suitable for all climates, but there are so many beautiful alternatives that exist nowadays, too.

“The cost of irrigation, mowing, fertilizing, and water bills adds up fast—especially during drought conditions,” says Trabulsi. “You’re looking at hundreds of gallons of water a week for aesthetics.”

So what are your options that won’t cost you tons but look well-designed? Trabulsi and Vierra both suggest xeriscaped areas, low-water plants, and hardscape paths.

“These look better with age, slash water use, and create less seasonal stress,” says Vierra.

DIYing Serious Infrastructure

Some backyard projects are fun and just the right level of challenging. When it comes to large pieces of infrastructure or garden design though, it’s better left to the pros.

“Unless your goal is to learn how to build something, I recommend bringing in an expert for at least the infrastructure of your garden space, leaving you with just the right amount of work that sounds fun and invigorating to do,” says landscaping expert Daniel McCurry.

Curious about what that list of projects usually entails? There are several categories that are better off not being turned into DIY projects.

“Call in a pro for anything that touches grading and drainage, retaining walls over 2 feet tall, and irrigation systems,” Vierra says.

These particular projects can all lead to mistakes that cost much more than the initial project in the long term. As for his favorites that homeowners can tackle? Container gardening, painting fences, light planting, and mulch work.

Projects That Bring More Stress Than Joy

This is a broader category, but just as important. Consider if a project is just a temporary spark of joy or something you’ll actually make the most of (and want) down the road.

“Don’t build something that you aren’t excited about and can’t visualize you and your family using with somewhat regularity,” says McCurry. “On the other hand, it does require a hopeful vision to create a space that will bring your children home, and for people who want to be together in.”

He also adds that this definition will vary for every homeowner. It all comes down to what’s worth your time, energy, and money.