Remember that hardscaping is as important as natural features when creating a peaceful, balanced yard. These man-made elements, such as patios, walkways, and divider wall, are essential to creating a perfect outdoor living space. Although hardscape elements can be a great addition to your organic space they come with different concerns than creating a flower or vegetable garden.
These are the top 4 elements you should consider before starting a hardscaping job.
Before you set stone, build a foundation
It is easy to see your hardscaping in a construction project. As with all construction projects, it is important to establish a strong foundation for your hardscaping. It takes more than just laying stones and calling it done to create a stunning walkway or patio. To create a solid foundation for your hardscape project, you need to set aside time to level the ground.
Take into consideration different types of stone
It is more complicated than just going to the local garden center to pick a set of pavers. You may find stone that looks great, but it is not within your budget or doesn’t fit in the space. A stone you don’t like as much visually could still be within your budget and provide the necessary functionality.
Listed below are some common stone types to consider when designing your hardscape.
Peastone This versatile stone is used in many commercial settings but is affordable for homeowners. Peastone measures approximately one eighth of an inch and is smooth in texture. To keep it in place, you need to create a foundation of stone dust and compacted soil.
Bluestone is a type stone that’s native to the northwest United States. Bluestone can be found in many colors, from blue to gray to even green. The shapes of bluestone can be square or irregular, similar to fieldstone. Bluestone can be placed on a sand base and creates a flat surface that is suitable for patio furniture.
Brick is a clay paver stone, which is used for a wide range of hardscape and structural projects. It is durable and easy to put in. Brick is a popular choice for both landscape companies and DIYers due to its natural, traditional appearance.
Pick the location that best suits your needs.
Before you decide where to build your next hardscaping job, determine what it will be used for. It is important to consider how accessible the space will be, and how far it should be from your home. A patio near your kitchen is a good option if you need to transport food from the outside to your home during a barbecue.
Consider how big your yard is compared to your hardscape area. When planning your hardscaping project, it is important to consider trees, children’s play equipment, as well as space for pets.
The shape of the hardscape area should be determined
Consider the layout of the space where you will be building your hardscape. Do you prefer a square area for entertaining or a more relaxed sitting area? When budgeting, these are important considerations. For a fountain, bench or rounded patio, it may be necessary for you to cut or split stones. This can be very costly. For a successful project, be realistic about your expectations.
Before you start, consult landscape designers to plan your hardscaping project.
You will be well on the way to creating a functional space that is pleasingly different from nature and a plan for your next hardscaping projects once you have completed these elements. Contact the experts at Moodscapes if you need assistance in deciding on your next hardscaping projects.
