💸 How Much Does a Backyard Renovation Cost in Nova Scotia?

Ariel Hitchon
Jul 4
3 min read

Thinking about transforming your backyard into an outdoor oasis? Whether you're dreaming of a new patio, a cozy fire pit, or a complete outdoor living space, the first question that comes to mind is usually: “How much is this going to cost me?” At Nova Peak Contracting, we get this question all the time—and the truth is, the cost of a backyard renovation in Nova Scotia depends on several key factors. In this article, we’ll break it down so you can plan confidently and avoid any surprises.

🧱 What Affects the Cost of a Backyard Renovation?

1. Scope of Work

Are you looking for a simple patio or a full landscape overhaul with multiple elements like retaining walls, gardens, and carpentry? Here's a general idea of what different projects might cost:

💡 Pro Tip: Start with a realistic wish list. Prioritize your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves and talk to your contractor about phased projects if needed.

2. Site Access and Conditions

Difficult site access can significantly impact cost. Tight backyards, steep grades, or poor drainage require extra prep time and equipment.

Easy access (wide, level lot): lower labour and machine costs
Limited access (tight gates, slopes, trees): expect additional excavation or hand labour costs

3. Material Choices

The cost difference between a pressure-treated deck and a composite one—or between standard pavers and high-end natural stone—can be thousands of dollars.

Feature	Budget Material	Premium Material
Decking	Pressure-treated	Composite, cedar
Pavers	Concrete	Natural stone
Lighting	Solar stick-ons	Integrated LED

At Nova Peak, we walk clients through every material option to help balance look, performance, and budget.

4. Subsurface Preparation

The most beautiful patio in the world will fail if it's built on poor base prep. Proper excavation, drainage, and compacted stone base add to upfront cost—but save you major repairs down the road. Expect 20–30% of your budget to go into what you don’t see—base materials, geotextile, drainage systems, and professional installation.

5. Design Complexity

Curved edges, multiple elevation changes, and custom carpentry all require more time and expertise. These add cost, but they also create truly standout spaces.

Want a fire pit integrated into a retaining wall? That’s a custom job. Adding steps and lighting into a sloped backyard? That’s advanced work Nova Peak specializes in.

📍 Average Backyard Renovation Cost in Nova Scotia (2025)

Here’s a ballpark range based on recent projects we've completed across the HRM:

Type of Backyard	Typical Investment
Basic (patio, sod, garden beds)	$8,000 – $20,000
Mid-tier (deck, patio, privacy fence, lighting)	$20,000 – $75,000
Premium (custom woodwork, stone walls, outdoor kitchen, in-ground pool)	$60,000 – $100,000+

Keep in mind: Permit requirements, design consultations, and seasonal demand can also affect pricing and timelines.

🛠️ Why Hire Nova Peak?

We’re more than just a landscaping company—we’re your outdoor construction partner. With decades of experience, a skilled and insured team, and a deep commitment to craftsmanship, we’re proud to build backyards that last. You won’t find us cutting corners or disappearing halfway through the job. We treat every project like it’s our own home—because reputation means everything.