2026 VT Homeowner’s Checklist: Essential Outdoor Projects to Start Planning Now

As Vermont homeowners look ahead to 2026, now is the perfect time to start preparing for the outdoor projects that will protect your property, boost curb appeal, and make the most of your outdoor living spaces. From storage solutions to stonework upgrades, planning early helps you secure materials, lock in installation dates, and avoid the spring rush.

At Livingston Farm in Bristol, VT, we’ve helped thousands of clients turn their outdoor visions into reality. Here’s your essential early-planning checklist for the year ahead.

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1. Secure Your Storage: Sheds, Garages & Outbuildings

Winter weather and year-round storage needs make durable outbuildings essential for New England homes. Whether you need space for lawn equipment, tools, recreational gear, or vehicles, now is the time to plan.

Top projects for 2026:

Custom sheds (A-Frame, Cottage, Dutch Barn, Lean-To, or Two-Story/Garage models)

One-car and two-car garages

Garden studios, hobby sheds & backyard offices

Why plan ahead:
Lead times can extend in spring, site prep takes time, and early clients get first access to the season’s best installation dates.

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2. Protect Your Property with Stone: Walls, Walkways & Retaining Solutions

Stonework not only enhances your landscape but also helps control erosion, define outdoor spaces, and add long-term value to your home.

Ideal early-season projects:

Dry-stack or mortared retaining walls

Front walkway replacements

Garden and border walls

Stone steps and treads

At Livingston Farm, we stock local and regional wall stone, patio stone, bluestone treads, and custom natural stone options—ready to pick up or schedule for delivery.

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3. Create Outdoor Living Spaces You’ll Love All Year

More homeowners are transforming their properties into low-maintenance, year-round gathering spaces.

Plan now for:

Stone patios and outdoor dining areas

Fire pit spaces and outdoor hearths

Garden paths and stepping stone walkways

Pergolas, gazebos, and covered outdoor seating

If you’re dreaming of new spaces for summer BBQs, family time, or relaxation, starting the design phase in winter gives your contractor time to finalize plans before spring.

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4. Refresh Your Driveway with Quality Gravel & Topsoil

Driveways and garden beds take a beating over harsh winters. Early planning ensures your property is ready for mud season and spring planting.

Materials to consider:

Driveway gravel & stone

Screened topsoil

Mulch for gardens and beds

Crushed stone for drainage projects

Ordering ahead means your materials arrive exactly when you need them—without waiting weeks during the busy season.

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5. Plan Ahead for Hardscape Enhancements

If you’re considering adding a garden marker or boulder to your property, now is the time to start.

Livingston Farm offers:

Garden stones

Large-format landscape boulders

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6. Schedule Early for Delivery & Site Prep

Spring and summer are our busiest seasons. Clients who plan ahead benefit from:

Faster turnaround times

Priority scheduling

Better material availability

Smoother coordination with contractors

Whether you’re installing a shed, building a patio, or refreshing your property, early planning helps keep your project on schedule and on budget.

Why Start Planning Now?

Avoid spring delays
Secure the best pricing and availability
Get your preferred delivery dates
Complete projects earlier in the season
Enjoy your outdoor spaces all summer and fall

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Work With Vermont’s Trusted Outdoor Living Experts

At Livingston Farm, we provide:

A wide selection of sheds, garages, stone products, and outdoor living materials

On-site or virtual consultations to help you choose the right products

Delivery throughout Vermont and surrounding regions

Friendly, knowledgeable staff committed to excellent customer service

Whether you’re tackling one project or planning a full property transformation, we’re here to help you make 2026 your best outdoor season yet.

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Ready to Start Your Project?

Visit us in Bristol, VT or browse products online.
Have a question? Our team is always happy to help you get started!