What is Hardscape and Why it Matters?

When you talk about the hardscape, you’re referring to all of the landscaping’s non-living features, such as walkways, driveways, fences, retaining walls, patios, and so on. Hardscape refers to something made of hard materials such as concrete, wood, stone brick, and metal. 

Since it binds the whole landscape together, your hardscape is incredibly significant in your landscape design. You can define various areas in your landscape in an orderly way with well-planned hardscaping. Without a hardscape, your yard could look like a wild forest, where accessing different areas could be a challenge, giving your property an unkempt appearance.

Common Hardscape Elements

Driveways

The driveway is always overlooked, even if it’s one of the most visible features of your hardscape. The path connecting the main road to your house is actually the first thing visitors and neighbors notice. A lovely driveway will welcome you home every day. For this reason, it’s essential to use durable materials.

Walkways 

The walkway can direct the path to your home or link various areas of your landscape. You can have a simple and straightforward design or get creative with brick, stone, and even concrete.

Retaining Walls

A well-built retaining wall will endure for several years. Retaining walls have many roles, including linking areas and avoiding soil erosion. They can have a visually attractive benefit in addition to being practical.

Patios

A patio is equivalent to extra space. It’s the most cost-effective way to grow living space without splitting the bank. There’s a reason houses with patios sell way faster. Who wouldn’t want to have a nice place to chill outdoors?

Why it matters

The two main elements that make up your landscape are known as hardscape and softscape. One point to bear in mind is that hardscape and softscape are diametrical. However, both are needed for your landscape to be completely functional.

Retaining walls, pathways, stairs, patios, fountains, and pool decks are examples of hardscape features in your yard. The softscape, on the other hand, contains all living components such as flowers, hedges, shrubs and trees. A well-designed landscape should hopefully incorporate a sense of balance between these two elements.

Why use concrete?