Landscape Renovation vs New Landscaping in Fargo ND

If your outdoor space feels outdated, difficult to maintain, or no longer fits how you use your home, you may be debating whether to invest in landscape renovation or start over with new landscaping. For homeowners in Fargo and West Fargo, this decision carries extra weight due to North Dakota’s demanding climate, soil conditions, and freeze-thaw cycles.

Both options can dramatically improve curb appeal, functionality, and property value—but they serve very different purposes. Understanding the differences between renovating an existing landscape and installing a brand-new one can help you make a confident, cost-effective decision that delivers long-term results.

This guide breaks down how each option works, when each makes sense, and what Fargo-area homeowners should consider before moving forward.

What Is Landscape Renovation?

Landscape renovation focuses on upgrading, repairing, or redesigning an existing landscape rather than removing everything and starting from scratch. This approach is ideal when your yard has usable features but needs improvement to meet current needs, style preferences, or performance standards.

Renovation can involve a wide range of updates, including:

Replacing failing patios or walkways
Regrading areas with drainage problems
Updating planting beds and removing overgrown or dying plants
Adding or expanding outdoor living features such as patios, fireplaces, or seating areas
Improving accessibility and traffic flow throughout the yard

In the Fargo area, renovation often addresses issues caused by soil movement, improper base installation, or outdated materials that haven’t held up well through repeated winters.

What Does New Landscaping Mean?

New landscaping refers to building an outdoor space from the ground up. This typically involves removing existing features, reshaping the land, and installing all new hardscapes, plantings, and outdoor amenities.

New landscaping is most common for:

Newly built homes with unfinished yards
Properties with extensive structural or drainage failures
Yards that were poorly designed or installed in the past
Homeowners seeking a completely different layout or use of space

Starting fresh allows for total creative freedom, but it also requires more planning, materials, and labor—especially in a climate like North Dakota’s.

The Biggest Differences Between Renovation and New Landscaping

The main difference comes down to scope and preservation. Renovation works with what already exists, while new landscaping replaces it entirely.

With renovation, mature trees, established grading, and stable structures can often be preserved. This not only saves money but also reduces disruption to your property. Renovation projects can also be phased, allowing homeowners to spread improvements over time.

New landscaping, on the other hand, offers a blank slate. While this can be appealing, it also means more excavation, longer timelines, and higher upfront costs.

Cost Comparison for Fargo Homeowners

In most cases, landscape renovation is more affordable than new landscaping. By reusing portions of the existing layout, homeowners can avoid costs associated with demolition, disposal, and complete base reconstruction.

However, cost should never be the only deciding factor. If existing hardscapes were installed incorrectly or have significant frost damage, repairing them repeatedly may cost more over time than replacing them properly.

New landscaping generally costs more because it requires:

Excavation and soil preparation
Drainage planning and installation
Frost-depth base construction for hardscapes
New materials designed for North Dakota conditions

A professional evaluation helps determine whether renovation will truly save money or simply delay larger issues.

How Fargo’s Climate Impacts the Decision

North Dakota’s climate is one of the most important factors in choosing between renovation and new landscaping. Freeze-thaw cycles, snow accumulation, and spring runoff place constant stress on outdoor spaces.

Renovation allows professionals to correct specific weaknesses—such as improper grading or insufficient base depth—without disturbing areas that have already proven they can withstand local conditions.

New landscaping must be designed and installed correctly from the start. Mistakes in drainage, base preparation, or material selection can lead to shifting patios, cracked retaining walls, and standing water within just a few seasons.

When Landscape Renovation Is the Better Option

Renovation is often the right choice when your yard has solid fundamentals but lacks usability or visual appeal. Many Fargo homes fall into this category, especially those built 10–30 years ago.

Renovation works well if:

You have mature trees or established plantings worth preserving
Portions of your patio or hardscape are still structurally sound
The layout functions but feels dated or inefficient
You want to improve outdoor living without major disruption

Renovation can dramatically transform a space while maintaining its best features.

When New Landscaping Makes More Sense

New landscaping is often the smarter option when the existing yard has widespread issues that can’t be resolved through partial updates.

You may want to start fresh if:

Drainage problems affect large portions of the yard
Hardscapes are severely cracked, heaved, or failing
Previous installations were done without proper base preparation
The current layout no longer fits your lifestyle at all

While more expensive initially, new landscaping can provide better long-term value when extensive corrections are needed.

Functionality vs. Appearance

Another key consideration is how you want to use your outdoor space. Renovation often focuses on improving appearance and comfort, while new landscaping can completely redefine functionality.

If your goal is to add an outdoor kitchen, fireplace, or entertaining area that doesn’t fit within the current layout, new landscaping may offer more flexibility. If you simply want better flow, updated materials, and enhanced comfort, renovation may be sufficient.

Timeline and Disruption

Renovation projects typically take less time and cause less disruption. Homeowners can often continue using parts of their yard while work is underway.

New landscaping usually requires full access to the property and may render the yard unusable until completion. For families who value outdoor access during Fargo’s short summers, this is an important consideration.

Making the Right Choice for Your Property

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The right solution depends on your property’s condition, your goals, and how long you plan to stay in your home.

Working with an experienced local professional like MGI Landscapes & Outdoor Living ensures your landscape is evaluated through the lens of Fargo’s climate, soil conditions, and lifestyle needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is landscape renovation always cheaper than new landscaping?
Not always. Renovation is usually less expensive, but widespread structural issues can make new landscaping more cost-effective long term.

Can renovation fix drainage issues?
Yes. Many renovation projects focus specifically on correcting grading and water flow problems.

How long do renovation projects take in Fargo?
Most renovation projects take two to six weeks, depending on scope and weather conditions.

Does new landscaping add more value to a home?
Both options can add value when done correctly. The key is durability and functionality, not just appearance.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between landscape renovation and new landscaping is about more than cost—it’s about performance, longevity, and how your outdoor space supports your lifestyle. With thoughtful planning and professional insight, Fargo homeowners can create outdoor environments that remain beautiful and functional for years to come.

Landscape Renovation vs. New Landscaping: Which Is Right for Your Fargo Home?