Top 5 Mistakes Homeowners Make When Ordering Landscaping Materials

Ordering landscaping materials might seem simple—pick a product, choose a quantity, get it delivered. But for many Utah homeowners, a few small missteps can turn a weekend project into a frustrating and expensive fix.

At TDS, we’ve helped thousands of customers get their projects right the first time. Here are the top 5 landscaping material mistakes we see most often—and how to avoid them.

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1. Ordering Too Little (or Too Much)

One of the most common issues is miscalculating the amount of material needed. Whether it’s topsoil, mulch, gravel, or decorative rock, running short means delays, while ordering too much leaves you with waste and storage headaches.

How to Avoid It:

Use a material calculator to get exact measurements before ordering. At TDS, we’ll help you calculate cubic yards based on your space and desired depth.

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2. Choosing the Wrong Material

Picking the wrong product for your project can lead to poor results—or worse, a complete redo. For example:

• Using fine mulch on steep slopes where it will wash away

• Choosing decorative gravel where compacted crushed rock is needed for stability

• Selecting the wrong soil blend for planting

How to Avoid It:

Talk to a local supplier who understands Utah’s climate and soil. We’ll recommend the best option for your project’s needs.

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3. Poor Timing

Even the right materials won’t help if they arrive too early or too late. Storing large piles of topsoil or mulch for weeks can lead to compaction, nutrient loss, or messes.

How to Avoid It:

Schedule delivery for the day before or the day of installation. TDS offers flexible delivery options to match your project timeline.

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4. Skipping Site Preparation

Materials work best on a properly prepared site. Without clearing debris, leveling the ground, or installing weed barriers, you may end up wasting time and money.

How to Avoid It:

Before delivery, clear and grade your area, remove old materials, and ensure drainage is in place.

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5. Ignoring Utah’s Unique Conditions

Utah’s clay-heavy soil, dry climate, and high-altitude weather mean that not every landscaping method from online tutorials will work here. For example, gravel beds without proper underlayment can shift due to freeze-thaw cycles.

How to Avoid It:

Get advice from a supplier familiar with DIY landscaping tips for Utah. We’ll help you choose materials that hold up in our environment.

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How TDS Helps You Get It Right

From topsoil delivery to bulk mulch and decorative rock, we make sure you:

• Order the right amount

• Get the right product

• Receive it on time

• Have prep tips before the truck arrives

With our local expertise, you can avoid common pitfalls and finish your project faster—without costly mistakes.

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Start Your Project the Right Way

Contact TDS today for accurate measurements, expert recommendations, and timely delivery of your landscaping materials anywhere in Utah.

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