Find Out What Everyone Needs To Consider Before Adding A Hardscape To Their Maryland, DC, Or Northern Virginia Home
The hardscaping basics you need to consider first include timing, the current condition of your landscape, edgings, and more. It’ll make everything easier.
Find all 5 in the post below-
BEFORE WE START ANYTHING…
“We need to do some research,” Shane suggests.
Emma sighs. “Yeah, I know you’re right. It’s just researching is boring while actually doing things is fun. I want this hardscape so bad because it’ll make hosting people so much easier. It’s outside, the weather is wonderful, and I have so many ideas!”
Shane rubs her back. “We’ll have plenty to do after we make sure we know what we’re doing and if we even can do it.” Emma shakes her head. “Well, let’s start by looking up some hardscaping basics then. That way we have a starting point for those 3 outdoor living room ideas.”
She gets out her phone and starts typing questions into Google. After a while, here is what Emma finds on hardscaping.
5 HARDSCAPING BASICS
- Timing
- Current landscaping
- Site conditions
- Focal points
- Edgings
1. TIMING
Many people often overlook this hardscaping basic. For hardscapes, winter is the best time for installation.
It doesn’t take as long for installation to begin. Contractors usually have a more open schedule in the winter as opposed to spring and summer. For example, if you wait until April to start planning your new patio, it could take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks until installation actually begins.
Installation is also easier on your lawn during the winter. Less damage to your lawn makes for a cleaner and easier process.
Then when spring and summer roll around you can enjoy your hardscape!
2. CURRENT LANDSCAPING
A hardscaping basic most people do naturally is think about how a hardscape will play into their current landscape.
Consider your entire landscape and lawn areas. You’ll want to create a comprehensive plan that includes those spaces. Even if you plan on phasing in different aspects, it is good to have a clear vision of how it will all blend and fit together.
Professional landscapers can help you draw up a design.
3. SITE CONDITIONS
The condition of the site is important too.
One thing, in particular, to be mindful of is drainage. How does water currently flow through your property? Do you have any drainage issues? Patios and walls can greatly affect this, and if done correctly, can improve your drainage. If they are done poorly, you can have some serious issues, inside and outside of your home.
4. FOCAL POINTS
You’ll want to enjoy your hardscape as much as possible, and this means being able to see it.
This hardscaping basic can help you do just that. Think about where you stand or sit and see your backyard. Consider where the focal points of your yard are and where a hardscape would work best in relation to them.
5. EDGINGS
Every hardscape has an edge that needs a little something to it.
Make sure you don’t forget about plant material. Not only will plantings and lawn areas create a more visually appealing space, but they can also cool down stone on hot summer days.
“Awesome! These hardscaping basics have given us somewhere to start so when we talk to an installer we know what we want,” Emma says, eyes smiling. “I’m going to see what else I can find on this website.”
