Hardscaping
HARDSCAPING
One of the biggest trends in home improvement is extending outdoor living spaces. In fact, creating bespoke hardscapes is one of our most requested services because not only does it add functionality, it enhances the landscape and brings harmony to the surroundings.
Softscaping vs Hardscaping
Your home’s exterior consists of both hardscapes and softscapes. Most properties consist of a combination of both elements because they bring harmony to, and unify the surroundings. While they are completely opposite of each other, hardscapes and softscapes are both necessary to maximize the functionality and visual appeal of your home.
Softscaping
In short, softscapes are the growing, living outdoor elements of your yard - plants, shrubs etc. Typically the horticultural elements add to the aesthetic appeal of the yard, but are not the focal points.
Hardscaping
Hardscapes consist of the nonliving elements of your yard - typically manmade items such as patios, walkways, retaining walls etc. Many hardscapes separate the various outdoor living spaces to create physical boundaries.
Considerations
The surge in hardscaping projects is a testament to the popularity of outdoor living. As with any other home improvement project, there are several things to consider before embarking on your hardscaping project journey:
Planning
A hardscaping project should never be an impulse decision. Hardscapes require advanced planning so that you are able to achieve the look you want. In addition, when properly planned out, hardscapes will reduce the amount of water required to maintain the surrounding landscape.
Foundation
Hardscaping should be constructed to last. As such, special consideration (and attention) should be given to the foundation of any hardscaping you put in. This is definitely not an area where you want to cut corners.
Materials
The use of professionally installed quality materials will ensure that the structure’s integrity is sound and built to last. Depending on the particular elements used, hardscapes should complement the style of your home.
Drainage
Depending on the construction, hardscaping is a great way to address areas in your yard that don’t drain properly. The various hardscape elements can prevent water from pooling and drainage/irrigation systems can be installed.
Location
Hardscapes can also provide additional privacy and mask traffic noise. Hardscaping elements are typically visible all year, so the structure(s) should offer a sense of permanence while highlighting certain architectural features.
Types of Hardscapes
There are a wide variety of hardscaping options to choose from, and most often homeowners incorporate a variety of hardscaping elements in order to create a cohesive aesthetic.
Examples of hardscapes include, but are not limited to:
- Patios
- Decks
- Retaining Walls
- Fireplaces/Fire Pits
- Stone/Brick/Concrete Edging
- Outdoor Kitchens
- Paths
- Walkways
- Driveways
- Brick/Stone/Concrete Steps
- Pillars/Columns
- Fountains
- Gazebos
- Waterfalls
- Garden Statues/Bird Baths
- Ponds
- Garden Bed Borders
- Stream Beds
- Planting Beds
- Play Structures
- Pools
When it comes to creating an outdoor oasis, the sky's the limit. However, hardscaping requires expertise. The key to achieving a functional, yet beautiful extension of your living space is to combine both hardscaping and softscaping elements to incorporate balance and curb appeal.
Honey Do Men has over two decades of experience creating stunning spaces that are built to last. We will ask you the important questions to help you plan a bespoke space that will work best within your budget.
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Common Hardscaping Questions
Common materials used in hardscaping include:
Concrete: Versatile and durable, suitable for various applications like patios, driveways, and retaining walls.
Stone: Natural stone such as granite, limestone, or slate adds a timeless and elegant look to outdoor spaces.
Brick: Classic and durable, ideal for pathways, patios, and edging.
Wood: Treated lumber or hardwoods like cedar are often used for decks, pergolas, and fences.