What is hardscaping? While it is often associated with landscaping, hardscaping is a different service centered on the design and placement of inanimate elements of your landscape. Think about the non-organic pieces that make your backyard or business both aesthetic and functional:
- Sidewalks
- Decks
- Retaining walls
- Fencing
- Pavers
- Pathways
- Etc.
These all fall into the category of hardscaping. Whether you’re constructing a residential or commercial landscape, hardscaping is often an essential attribute. It helps define how the area is used while accentuating its natural appeal.
Types of Hardscaping
When we ask “what is hardscaping”, the truth is that the practice is a bit more complex than a single definition. There are different types of hardscaping, including soft hardscapes, living hardscapes, and mixed hardscapes:
- A soft hardscape uses natural materials. While not alive, the materials used to create different elements comes from natural sources. This includes stone and sand.
- A living hardscape combine living elements, such as flowers and plants, with non-living elements. An example of this would be filling in the space between the stones of a path with organic moss.
- Mixed hardscapes use a blend of natural and unnatural materials. Some hardscapers get very creative with this method, recycling materials such as old bottle caps or glass to create a fresh, new look to their landscape.
What to Consider When Hardscaping
Just like landscaping, there is a lot of thought that goes into designing a hardscape before you physically start to create it. Beyond deciding on what elements you want (stepping stones, patio, etc.), you have to think about the functionality, durability, and practicality of your design.
Are you using a strong foundation?
Is your hardscaping compatible with your landscaping?
Does it match your landscaping design?
Using the wrong materials or not considering important details like drainage can lead to disastrous results. That’s why it’s important to remember that whatever you install should be installed right, and with respect to the nature that exists around it.
If you aren’t familiar with the type of plants, flowers, and trees that thrive best in your area, or how hardscaping elements affect your landscape, you’ll want to consult a professional. While creating an appealing ambiance is important, you have to make sure that your chosen design coexists well with the living elements, too.
Consult Blue Landscaping for Your Next Hardscaping Job
Whether you’re a business or a homeowner, Blue Landscaping and Contracting Group includes Blue Outdoor Solutions: a hardscaping service who knows the in’s and out’s of hardscaping design and installation.
We’ll listen closely to your ideas and create an attractive, long-lasting hardscape design that brings your landscape to life. If you live in Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, or Estero, talk to us about our services. You’ll love the transformation we create.