Now that the warmer weather is officially here, it’s time to step back and reevaluate the state of your landscape. You’ll likely notice that there are a few landscaping projects that have been in hiding for quite some time. Did the snow build-up cause your fence to lean, did a heavy storm bring down your favourite tree, or does your grass simply need to be brought back to life? Check out these common landscaping projects and their average costs so you can get started on revamping your yard.
1. Fence Repairs
Have you noticed that your fence looks like it is leaning? Or that chunks of wood are missing? Or that now you and your neighbours now officially share a yard? Weathered fences are common during this time of the year due to the harsh climate during the winter months. Not only does a damaged fence look bad, but it can also be a potential hazard to your family and/or pets.
Be on the lookout for loose hardware such as nails, screws and splintered wood. There’s no sense in putting this particular project off due to the fact that repairs will only get worse and the costs will continue to rise. The costs of fence repairs vary on the severity of the damage, the material used, and the cost of labour. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300-$1,000 for minor to major repairs. If your fence is beyond repair, the average cost of fence installation is around $4,500. When you’re ready to get your backyard privacy back, have a fencing specialist take a look to figure out your best option.
Below are the average costs of Fences & Gates services across different cities in Canada:
| City | Average | Minimum | Maximum |
| Barrie | $6,104 | $150 | $40,000 |
| Calgary | $6,498 | $125 | $47,000 |
| Edmonton | $7,816 | $147 | $40,000 |
| Hamilton | $1,680 | $250 | $4,500 |
| Oshawa | $4,449 | $420 | $10,700 |
| Ottawa | $8,269 | $123 | $50,000 |
| Toronto | $5,848 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Vancouver | $3,831 | $150 | $30,000 |
*Costs based on 3655 verified Canadian homeowner reviews as of March 2022
2. Deck Repairs
Snow build up throughout the winter can be the final straw on your ageing deck and can become problematic when using the space. If you have noticed some loose or squeaking deck boards, don’t wait until it’s too late, have your deck repaired. The average costs of deck repairs vary depending on the severity, ranging anywhere from $500 to $1,000 for small repairs, and $2,500 to $5,000 for major repairs. If you’re ready to commit to a new deck the average cost is anywhere from $5,000 for a smaller size to over $10,000 for a larger deck.
Below are the average costs of Decks & Patio services across different cities in Canada:
| City | Average | Minimum | Maximum |
| Calgary | $11,533 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Edmonton | $12,474 | $1,000 | $50,000 |
| Hamilton | $13,836 | $2,500 | $45,000 |
| Oshawa | $11,450 | $500 | $50,000 |
| Ottawa | $7,965 | $350 | $28,000 |
| Toronto | $13,565 | $135 | $50,000 |
| Vancouver | $6,456 | $300 | $30,000 |
*Costs based on 1264 verified Canadian homeowner reviews as of March 2022
3. Interlocking
Don’t have a deck? Maybe your patio has been sloping in recent years and it’s time to revamp. While there are a wide array of patio styles out there, patio interlocking appears to be increasingly popular due to the easy installation, low maintenance, and the ability to retain their colour throughout the years. The average cost of interlocking is between $8 and $15 per square foot, depending on the material chosen. If you’re looking to revamp your patio, speak to an interlocking specialist who can help you decide on the best fit and design for your yard.
4. Lawn Care
Did you know it is important to invest time into maintaining your lawn not only for the environment but also for your own personal health? Healthy grass acts as a natural filter to help keep our environment clean, which in turn allows us to breathe healthy air. By maintaining your lawn, you’re helping everyone breathe easier!
The average cost for lawn care maintenance is about $300 a month for basic services. If you decide to sign on for an annual plan, your costs will be lower. Consult with a lawn care professional to determine how much it will cost to make your lawn green and keep it that way.
5. Tree Removal
There are many reasons you might call in an arborist. An old tree may be posing a threat to your own home or your neighbours’ property, leaving you worried about potential damages and costs down the road. A winter storm may have taken your tree by its limbs and stripped it down to its core, leaving debris scattered everywhere and a not-so-appealing stump in the middle of your yard. For these jobs and more, it’s best to have a pro take care of them for you.
The average cost of tree removal varies depending on the height, type and location of the tree. With so many variables, so it’s difficult to judge what you will pay without speaking to a pro. Depending on your tree situation, the cost can start around $400 for a small tree to well over $4,000 for larger ones. Typically, the bigger the tree, the higher the costs. Keep in mind that these costs are normally for the chopping down of the tree and there may be additional charges for stump removal that can range anywhere from $200 to $500 or more depending on stump size.
Below are the average costs of Landscape Contractors & Designers services across different cities in Canada:
| City | Average | Minimum | Maximum |
| Barrie | $8,581 | $1,200 | $40,000 |
| Calgary | $10,015 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Edmonton | $5,936 | $102 | $50,000 |
| Hamilton | $11,382 | $105 | $50,000 |
| Oshawa | $8,223 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Ottawa | $10,506 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Toronto | $11,047 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Vancouver | $10,053 | $145 | $50,000 |
*Costs based on 3751 verified Canadian homeowner reviews as of March 2022
Now that you’re equipped with the average costs, you can budget accordingly and start planning which projects to take on. While you’re at it, start planning that first backyard barbecue and invite the neighbours over to see all the incredible work completed!
Article Updated June 2022.
