In order to save time and money you will need an accurately scaled plot plan of your property.

You may already have a diagram from when you purchased your home. (lucky duck)
You could also request a property survey for a fee. As a self-professed DIYer, I had to tackle this on my own.

Tools that will help along the way:
1. Grid (drafting) paper, with each square measuring 1/8″.
One 1/8″ square = 1 foot on your plan.
2. A 50-ft or 100-ft measuring tape.
3. Sharp pencil – with a VERY good eraser
4. Clip board – to keep the paper from blowing away. It can get windy in Dallas
5. Long screw driver, for securing the measuring tape down.

You can plot the space any way you choose. Starting with the yard’s outer most measurements will make it easier.  So if the yard is 48-ft wide, then you need to draw a line the width of 48 grid squares.

Do a rough sketch of the property, listing measurements along the way. Final step is to go back and plot your space on the grid paper based on the measurements.

Label everything: fences, overhead power lines, windows, trees, bushes, electrical outlets, facets, low spots, walkways, decks, utility meters, sewer clean outs, dryer vents, downspout, existing plants, out buildings, etc…  You get the idea.

The process is slow and you might have to redraw areas a couple of times until the measurements match. Stay strong my DIYer friend. It’s worth doing right.