■ Don’t go mad! A few upright features will add structure but too many will leave your plot looking like a theme park.
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■ Use tools that are in good condition to prevent damaging materials.
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■ If you’re building a wall in the garden of a period house, choose reclaimed bricks and stock that matches local buildings.
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■ If you’re looking for recycled products to build garden structures, Salvo (salvo.co.uk) has a directory of local architectural reclamation yards.
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■ Extend the life of soft wood by treating it with oil, paint, wood stains or varnish.
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Ready-to-use mortar will make the process easier
Save money by ordering in bulk, rather than buying lots of individual bags.
Use a pressure washer on a high se ing to blitz paving, and a lower se ing to clean wooden structures.
Planning permission is sometimes required for tall features. Check regulations with your local planning authority.
Pick locally quarried stone so that it works in harmony with the surrounding landscape.
Pick timber with Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) labels or similar certification, to prove that it comes from a sustainable source.