What is Hardscaping?
Hardscaping is a form of landscaping that refers to any manufactured structure and consists of inanimate materials such as gravel, brick, wood, pavers, and stone. Any solid construction outside is considered hardscape.
Some common examples of hardscape include patios, driveways, fences, fire pits, fountains, and walkways. Another form of landscaping is soft-soaping, which refers mainly to living, organic material such as trees, shrubs, and plant beds.
Different Types of Hardscaping
Hardscaping can consist of a wide variety of products and materials. Here are seven different hardscaping features that can immensely enhance your outdoor space.
1. Decks/Patios
Brick, concrete, or wooden patios and decks are types of hardscaping that help make your outdoor space even better.
They’re a great way to build places for fun and relaxing
Also, patios and decks can give you more room to enjoy time outside, almost like adding an extra part to your home.
2. Fire Pits
Stone pathways not only add physical appeal to your outdoor space, but they add functionality as well. They are typically made of materials such as stone or concrete pavers. Pathways are a great way to lead to different parts of your backyard without having to walk through the lawn or get your feet dirty.
4. Retaining Walls
A retaining wall is a vital structure made to stabilize a hill, slope, or mound of earth. Retaining walls are also a great way to break up your yard and add physical appeal. Retaining walls allow you to get creative and show off your style. A retaining wall contractor in Downers can help you explore the endless stone options for your retaining wall.
5. Gazebos and Pergolas
Gazebos and pergolas are well-constructed and partially shaded structures that come in numerous sizes, shapes, materials, and styles. They offer shade and shelter ideal for outdoor gatherings, and they also add value due to their beauty.
6. Fountains
Who doesn’t enjoy the peaceful sound of flowing water? Adding a fountain to your front or backyard is a great way to make your space stand out.
Every yard needs something special to catch the eye, and a fountain can be the perfect centerpiece. It adds beauty, makes your yard feel calm, and gives people something to talk about.
7. Driveways
Your driveway is one of the first things guests see when they pull up to your house. Whether made of concrete, stone, asphalt, or brick, your driveway is a great way to add value and curb appeal to your home. Putting a little bit of money into your driveway can add a lot of value.
Why Choose Hardscaping?
Low Maintenance
Hardscaping is easy to take care of. Materials like stone and pavers may get small cracks or chips, but those are easy to fix. Most of the time, hardscaping doesn’t need much work at all.
Unlike plants, hardscaping doesn’t need watering, trimming, seeding, or mulching. It’s strong, lasts a long time, and doesn’t need as much attention.
Still, there are a few things you should do. You should clean your hardscape at least once a year. Also, sealing the surfaces helps protect them from stains and cracks. That way, your hardscaping stays looking great for even longer.
Both hardscaping and softscaping are different, but together they can help you build the perfect outdoor space at home.
Adds Value to Your Home
Allows for Entertainment in the Comfort of Your Own Space
While the pandemic still affects our lives, indoor/outdoor living is more desirable than ever. It allows homeowners to entertain in the comfort of their own homes or outside as desired and play by their own rules. The landscaping industry has been booming as people discover they want to make the most out of the areas they spend the most time in.
In fact, you can create even the perfect outdoor kitchen for your yard with the help of professionals.
People enjoy spending time outdoors, soaking up vitamin D, enjoying the fresh air, and having a great oasis within walking distance of their home.
Hardscaping is the cherry on top of landscaping. Hardscapes are fun to design and add immense value to your home and re-sell value.
If you’d like to hardscape a fire pit in Naperville or add a beautiful patio, or maybe you have a different hardscape idea in mind, reach out to us, and we’ll work on making your vision come to life.