Gardening is a great way to add beauty and value to your home. But, if you want to take your garden to the next level, you should consider hardscaping materials. Hardscaping materials are man-made or non-living elements of a landscape, such as entrances, patios, walls and steps. These materials can be made from cobblestones, concrete, natural stone, asphalt, bricks, decomposed granite, tiles and wood.
Each of these materials has its own unique benefits and can be used to create a beautiful outdoor living space. Asphalt is a popular material used for driveways and roads. It is durable and can last more than 30 years. Asphalt is also better for areas with a cold climate because it is flexible and does not crack compared to concrete.
In addition, the dark color of asphalt can help melt ice or snow by absorbing more heat and hiding any stains. Bricks are a classic choice for hardscaping materials. They come in many colors and go well with other gardening materials. Bricks are also durable and can be placed in different beautiful designs with little maintenance.
Decomposed granite is a natural, versatile and economical material for hardscapes. It is often seen on walkways and is ideal for patios. There are different colors you can choose from, ranging from various shades of red, green, gray and brown. Tiles are a great option for outdoor spaces.
Porcelain tiles are beautiful and a much loved selection among many for outdoor tiles. Although it's a more expensive gardening material than other options, the tile will impress your guests. Wood is a charming addition along with all other gardening materials. It works great for certain types of hard landscapes, such as roofs, fences and pergolas. Composite decking is more durable and has a longer lifespan than natural wood. Paving stones are the garden material par excellence.
In essence, landscape pavers are pavers made of tiles, bricks or concrete. Concrete is often the most affordable option for gardening projects. A natural colored concrete slab with a broom finish is the most basic and least expensive option of all concrete options. Segmental retaining walls are formed without the use of mortar and rely on weight to create stability. VERSA-LOK retaining wall systems offer endless design options, making them an excellent choice for hardscapes.
Plantable wall blocks are a new trend that provide you with a retaining wall full of natural beauty. Concrete pavers come in numerous shapes and colors. They can be used for patios, entrances, walkways or as an accent for poured concrete. Shapes such as brick stone, cobblestone, circular stone and slate stone are among the most popular options. Permeable pavers are the perfect solution for controlling stormwater. Rainwater can pass through permeable pavers to the ground naturally, so there is no standing water left.
Some watershed districts provide grants to homeowners who complete projects that improve water quality. Hardlandscapes allow you to add levels and dimensions to your patio, making it a much more interesting and welcoming space. When choosing hard gardening materials to use in your landscape design, consider durability, aesthetic appeal and the cost of the desired look. Overall, there are many benefits to using hardscaping materials in your garden. From asphalt to wood to concrete pavers, there is something for everyone when it comes to creating an outdoor living space that is both beautiful and functional.
With the right materials in place, you can create an outdoor space that will last for years to come.
