What Is Hardscaping? Everything You Need to Know
Whether tranquil al fresco breakfasts or lively cookouts are more your style, there’s no denying that your home’s outdoor space is a luxury that doesn’t go unappreciated.
That said, while a green and blooming garden is a beautiful sight to behold, it’s your yard’s hardscaping that enables you to enjoy spending time amidst all that natural beauty.
But what is hardscaping exactly? And what are some examples of hardscaping services? Let’s take a look!
What Is Hardscaping?
Hardscaping refers to all man-made structures within landscaping design. These include all inanimate materials, whether natural or artificial, including brick, wood, pavers, stones, and gravel. Any solid structure that is not vegetation in an outdoor area comes under the definition of hardscaping.
Some examples of hardscape features include driveways, patios, pool decks, walkways, and fire pits.
Softscaping vs. Hardscaping
As this landscaping contractor lists, outdoor design includes both hardscaping and softscaping. Hardscaping services include paver installation and retaining wall construction.
In contrast, softscaping refers to the design of organic, living materials. These include natural elements such as trees, shrubs, and flower beds.
Regardless of whether you’re planning a dramatic desert landscaping project, or a quaint country garden, a combination of both softscaping and hardscaping is key. What’s more, one of the top landscape tips is to choose hardscaping and softscaping features that complement each other. Doing so provides the most visual appeal and ensures a better home resale value.
Popular Types of Hardscaping
Hardscaping features can make your outdoor space more liveable, appealing, and functional. Here are some different types of hardscaping that you might want to consider and why:
Pathways
Pathways made from natural stone or concrete can help you access different parts of your garden. As well as helping you avoid trampling across your lawn or flower beds, pathways add structure and visual appeal.
Retaining Walls
Retaining walls draw the boundary of a garden at the top or bottom of a hill. These kinds of load-bearing walls help dam up the soil and water runoff that could otherwise interfere with growing softscaping features.
Decks and Patios
Patios and decks can extend your living space into an outdoor area. Depending on your budget, design preferences, and maintenance requirements, you can use materials such as concrete, wood, brick, or stone.
Gazebos and Pergolas
If you enjoy outdoor entertaining, one of our top hardscape tips is to add a pergola or gazebo to your patio area. These structures provide shade and shelter during gatherings. And as a result, you and your guests will enjoy a much more comfortable experience.
Your Guide to Hardscaping
If you’ve ever wondered, “what is hardscaping?”, this quick guide should have cleared up any doubts or confusion.
And, now you know the various services that a hardscaping company can offer, you should also have a much better idea of the kinds of features you want.
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