Ever find yourself looking at your landscape, thinking that the plain soil, gravel, or grass is too dull? Well, there are solutions for sprucing up that space through hardscaping. Add some design flair to your dull yards and liven up your outdoor living space.
Hardscaping is exactly the opposite of softscaping or the placement of plants and other living elements. Hardscaping is the arrangement or placement of hard landscape materials that are incorporated in a landscape setting.
These are commonly used in paved walkways, driveways, retaining walls, and other hard structural elements. Hard landscape design helps accentuate the overall landscape by creating structure and form. It contrasts the horticultural elements and elevates the aesthetic appeal of the space.
This can be achieved through pavers and patio contractors such as in Walnut Creek, CA. Setting up hard landscape elements can be a DIY weekend project, but it would be better to hire professionals to save time and money.
Hardscape materials
There are a few options to make your outdoor space more pleasant. Choosing the right materials is dependent on the style of the house and the homeowner’s preference. Here are some of the common materials that can be used as pavers for hard landscape designs.
Brick
Brick is one of the most classic available materials for hardscapes. It has a variation of colors that can fit every design need of homeowners. It can be laid out in different patterns to make spaces appear formal or informal.
Brick is naturally a porous material that can be prone to wear and tear. Exposure to rain and frost can wear out brick, so better choose this material if not exposed to such harsh conditions.
Concrete
Concrete slabs create an industrial appeal to spaces; there is a sense of modernity in the square polished slabs. But concrete doesn’t always have to be square and gray. Concrete can be stained, stamped, and texturized.
It is a flexible material that can be applied give texture to a plain plant box, or it can perk up a dry retaining wall in the garden.
Stone
Natural stone or flagstone is a popular material used for patios and courtyards. There is a luxurious feeling with perfectly cut stones in shades that complement a home – even the irregular cut or geometric shapes appear formal in any space.
Tile
Tiles have different designs and colors, and can also be glazed. Though careful consideration is needed when choosing a tile finish. Be sure to select a non-slippery finish for tiles that are meant to be walked on.
Wood
This material is light-weight and is easy to be installed. It is used for decking, which gives a nice view of a landscape. Wood can also be used as a hardscape element as trellises and arbor for additional charm in the garden.
Materials for hardscape can be applied for decorative and structural use. Hardscape elements have hundreds of uses; there’s no limit to your imagination. They can be used for patios, walkways, retaining walls, and decks.
Planning is crucial before getting into a hardscape project. Deciding on what materials to be used and what features are to be showcased in a landscape can be a difficult task. Work on a schedule, particularly during spring or summer when there is favorable weather.
Moving stones and setting them can be quite a chore, look for a contractor to save money and time, and to help you get the landscape you deserve.
