You’ve certainly heard of the term ‘landscape,’ but have you also heard the term ‘hardscape’ and are not sure of what it is? Hardscape is one of the main components that make up landscaping along with softscape. In this post, we’ll give you insight into everything you need to know about hardscaping, the different types, and how it can increase the value of your home!
What Is Hardscape?
Hardscape refers to the elements of a landscape that are man-made such as gravel, brick, wood, stone, and pavers. Any solid structure in an outdoor area that is non-living is considered hardscape landscaping. Therefore, plants, flowers, grass, etc. would not be considered hardscape but softscape.
Hardscape landscaping includes features such as outdoor patios, walls, driveways, walkways, steps, fire pits, etc. Whether it’s for decor or structural purposes, residential hardscapes are important for any outdoor living area. When considering hardscape, you can work with your hardscape contractor to design the perfect landscape for your home!
Types of Hardscaping
There is a wide selection of hardscape materials that can be used for your residential landscape design. Here’s a look at 4 types of hardscape features to consider for your home’s landscape:
- Patios: To build an outdoor patio you can use hardscape materials such as concrete, brick, pavers, tile, etc. Hardscape patios are great for extending your living space into an outdoor area.
- Stone Pathways: By adding hardscape stone pathways to your landscape, you are providing easy access to different areas of your garden or home so you won’t have to step over dirt or grass to get there. Hardscape pathways are usually made out of concrete pavers or natural stone.
- Retaining Walls: Hardscape retaining walls are built at the top or bottom of a hill to hold back your garden’s soil and water that could interfere with your home’s softscape. Retaining walls can be built with bricks, natural stone, or concrete.
- Driveways: Hardscape driveways can be made from concrete, brick, stone, or any other sturdy hardscape material. Homes usually obviously come with a built-in driveway, but some homeowners choose to hardscape a new driveway if they’re looking to spruce up their home’s landscape design.
How Hardscaping Can Increase the Value of Your Home
Hardscaping on your property is a great investment that helps to increase the value of your home. Hardscape features such as fire pits, patios, outdoor kitchens, walls, walkways, etc. can make your outdoor space more liveable as well as add a visual appeal to the outside of your home. When it comes time to sell your home, it’s likely you’ll be able to raise its price as hardscape features are a very popular selling point.
Contact Lamacchia Landscape Construction For Your Hardscaping
When you hire a Lamacchia hardscape contractor, they will work with you to design the ideal landscape unique to your home. For more information or to schedule a project contact us today! 877-856-9273