Does your yard have unusable space due to sloping terrain, standing water, unruly vines or overgrown plants? WNC homeowners are no strangers to invasive plant species and hilly or mountainous land. These seemingly overwhelming landscape challenges present the prime opportunity for creating your zones of comfort with hardscaping elements.
Hardscaping refers to any non-living elements added to your landscape, such as stone, concrete, brick, flagstone, tile, gravel, metal, wood, and more. Features can range from a simple pathway, fence or patio to a grand terrace or outdoor kitchen. No matter the size or complexity, hardscaping has the power to completely transform your outdoor space and leave a lasting impression. Hardscape is a critical part of landscape design, providing definition and a sense of organizational structure to natural areas and features. The best hardscape projects work in harmony with the beauty of your yard, and support your outdoor activity preferences.
Boost Curb Appeal
Adding hardscape features to your property is both a practical endeavor with a strong return on investment, and creative enhancement to the overall aesthetic of your home. From a beautiful stone pathway leading to your front door, to a welcoming patio with a cozy seating area and firepit, hardscaping can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that instantly catches the eye and attracts visitors.
Gain Additional Living Areas
In addition to the visual appeal, hardscaping also adds functionality to your outdoor spaces. A well-planned deck or terrace can serve as an outdoor area for entertaining guests, while a set of stairs or a pathway can provide easy access to different areas of your yard. With the addition of components such as lighting, benches, and even water features, you can create a space that is not only beautiful but also practical for everyday use. The functionality can be improved by incorporating details such as fire pits or outdoor kitchens, making it easy gather around a cozy fire on cool evenings or to host barbecues.
Relax with Low-Maintenance
Hardscaping options are low-maintenance. Unlike traditional landscaping that requires regular watering, pruning, and mowing, hardscape features are generally easy to care for. Stone or brick pathways, for example, don't require regular upkeep, and they can withstand heavy traffic without showing signs of wear and tear.
One popular hardscape feature that is both purposeful and low-maintenance is a retaining wall. These can add visual interest to your landscape, but even better, they help prevent soil erosion, mitigate flooding and create usable spaces on sloped areas.
Feel Safe and Add Access
When it comes to hardscape, safety and accessibility are two often overlooked but essential factors to consider. Elements like pathways, steps, ramps, lighting and handrails can enhance safety and provide stable and secure surfaces to walk on, reducing the risk of slips, trips, and falls. Uneven or slippery surfaces can be hazardous, especially for older adults or individuals with mobility challenges.
Additionally, hardscape elements can improve accessibility by providing easy access to different areas of your property. This not only benefits individuals with disabilities but also makes it easier for anyone pushing a stroller, carrying heavy items, or simply walking comfortably through your property.
Winter installation
Winter is the perfect time to install hardscape features on your property:
- Colder weather means that TPS Landscaping can better accommodate your scheduling needs.
- The harder ground in winter makes it easier for contractors to work without causing potential damage to your existing landscape.
Because living landscape elements are dormant and less susceptible to damage and intrusion, laying protective covers or boards on the grassy areas causes less stress during the winter, and the lack of foliage makes moving equipment and materials much easier.