What to Expect: Exterior Improvements for Custom Homes

When building your custom home, it’s important to think about the outdoor spaces too. Exterior improvements, like retaining walls, fences, landscaping, and patios, can make your yard more beautiful and useful. These features create a space you’ll love to use and show off. Let’s explore what they are, when they’re installed, and how you can plan for them.

What Are Exterior Improvements?

Exterior improvements are the features and upgrades added to the outside of your home. They improve the look of your yard and make it more functional.

Here are some common types of exterior improvements:

• Retaining Walls: Keep soil in place and help shape sloped yards.
• Fences: Add privacy, security, and style.
• Landscaping: Planting flowers, trees, and shrubs to create a lush outdoor space.
• Irrigation Systems: Keep your plants healthy with automatic watering.
• Hardscapes: Patios, pathways, and other solid surfaces that make your yard easier to use.

These improvements aren’t just for looks—they also make your yard more enjoyable and easier to care for.

When Do Exterior Improvements Get Selected and Installed?

Exterior improvements are usually planned early but installed near the end of construction. Here’s how it works:

1. Planning Stage
   You’ll decide what features you want with your architect or Kimball Construction. Do you need retaining walls for a sloped yard? Would a patio or walkway make your space more inviting?
2. Permit Stage
   If some features, like tall retaining walls or fences, need permits, your architect or Kimball Construction will handle that.
3. Installation Stage
   • Retaining walls and fences are usually installed first.
   • Irrigation systems go in before plants.
   • Hardscapes, like patios and walkways, are completed before landscaping.
   • Plants, trees, and sod are added last to avoid damage during construction.

This timeline keeps everything moving smoothly and ensures the best results.

How Do I Select Exterior Improvements?

Choosing the right exterior improvements is easier than you think! Here are some tips:

1. Think About Your Needs
   Do you want more privacy? A fence might be perfect. Need a way to deal with sloped areas? Retaining walls can help.
2. Pick Low-Maintenance Options
   Choose materials and plants that don’t require a lot of upkeep. Drought-resistant plants and an irrigation system can save you time and effort.
3. Match Your Style
   Make sure your choices fit your home’s look. For example, stone retaining walls pair well with a rustic design, while sleek concrete patios suit modern homes.
4. Plan for the Future
   Think about how you’ll use your yard in the years ahead. A patio now could mean fun family barbecues later.
5. Stay on Budget
   Decide what’s most important to you and allocate your funds there. Simple landscaping can still look great if paired with a well-designed patio or walkway.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll create an outdoor space that’s both beautiful and practical.

Who Installs Exterior Improvements?

You’ll need skilled professionals to handle your exterior improvements. Here’s who can help:

1. Landscapers
   These experts create stunning outdoor spaces with plants, trees, and sod. They also handle irrigation systems to keep everything thriving.
2. Fence Installers
   Professional fence contractors can ensure your fence is strong, secure, and looks great.
3. Hardscape Pros
   Hardscape experts build patios, pathways, and other solid surfaces. They know how to make these features both durable and attractive.
4. General Contractors
   Some builders, like Kimball Construction, coordinate all aspects of your exterior improvements. This ensures everything is done efficiently and looks amazing.

By hiring experienced professionals, you’ll get results that you can enjoy for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much do exterior improvements cost?
Costs depend on the project. Retaining walls might cost $20–$50 per square foot, while landscaping can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more.

2. Do I need a permit for exterior improvements?
You might need permits for certain projects, like tall retaining walls or fences on property lines. Your contractor will help with this.

3. How do I maintain exterior improvements?

• Retaining walls: Check for cracks or drainage issues.
• Fencing: Clean and reseal or repaint when needed.
• Landscaping: Water plants and prune them regularly.
• Hardscapes: Sweep and seal surfaces to protect them from weather and stains.

4. How long do these improvements take to install?
Fences or retaining walls can take a few days, while landscaping and hardscaping may take a few weeks, depending on the size of the project.

5. Can I change my mind about improvements after installation?
Minor changes are possible, but it’s best to finalize plans early to avoid extra costs or delays.

6. Will these improvements add value to my home?
Yes! Features like patios, landscaping, and fences boost curb appeal and can increase your home’s resale value.

Conclusion

Exterior improvements like retaining walls, fences, landscaping, and patios make your outdoor space both beautiful and functional. With the right planning and professional help, you can create an outdoor area that enhances your home and your lifestyle.

Ready to improve your outdoor space? Contact Kimball Construction today to get started!