Learning About Landscaping Materials

Posted on: 26 April 2017

If you are looking for ways to improve the look of your property, hardscaping may be the perfect solution. Hardscaping is all of the non-living features that are incorporated into your property's landscaping. For example, walls, walkways, fountains and other functional/non-functional features. Hardscaping allows you to add decorative features to your landscaping in order to create a visually appealing area that doesn't require the maintenance that plant life requires.

There is a variety of material options that can be used for hardscaping, but concrete is one of the most durable and low maintenance. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should consider having your landscaping company help you with the hardscaping for your property.

Concrete is Customizable

One of the best reasons to concrete hardscaping projects into your landscaping is because concrete can be stamped to look like almost any other type of hardscaping material, including brick or flagstone. Concrete is much more durable than these other materials and it can be poured into any shape you like. Concrete can also be customized with the staining that matches the exterior of your home, your patio or any other feature. Stamping concrete is a great way to put your own unique style into your landscaping.

Easy Installation

Unlike many of the other hardscaping materials, concrete is easy to install, because the process doesn't involve any individual measuring, cutting and laying of stones. Once you choose the pattern, color and/or design you want, the contractor will only need to pour, stain and stamp your hardscaping features. The concrete will need to cure for a few days, but the process is typically much quicker than other methods.

It's Budget Friendly

Although the total cost of concrete hardscape structures depends on the size and complexity of the project, it is typically less expensive than other hardscape material options, especially if only one color and/or pattern is used. One of the best benefits of having concrete hardscapes installed is because of the low maintenance required with concrete; you will also spend less money over time.

Concrete is Environmentally Friendly

Unlike most of the other materials used for hardscapes, concrete is environmentally friendly. It is primarily made from limestone, which is found in abundance around the world. Your contractor will have local access to the ingredients used in the mixture, so it is not overproduced and it doesn't have to be shipped in. Concrete can also often be recycled or reused, so there isn't concern over overfilling landfills with concrete that is removed from your property.

Concrete Hardscape Ideas

Your landscape contractor will be able to provide you with a variety of ideas of how to incorporate concrete hardscapes into your landscaping. A few of things to consider may include: ornate concrete benches, which can be incorporated into your existing landscaping scheme to provide visually features as well as function.  Stamped concrete around a pool can help to improve the overall ambiance of your property as well as help to reduce noise pollution. 

A concrete wall can help provide a wind barrier as well as improve privacy or something as simple as a concrete walkway that can be functional as well as hide problem areas where grass or other plants are slow growing.

Concrete hardscape features are not living organisms, so they provide an ideal means for increasing your property value as well as the attractiveness of your property without requiring the constant care and maintenance that typical landscaping does. If you are searching for a great way to improve the visual appeal of your property, but do not want to devote all of your time to lawn care, concrete hardscapes are an excellent option.