When it comes to beauty that lasts, nothing beats a good hardscape. But have you ever wondered what’s involved in the process? How do you choose the right stones? How do you get the right design?
Let’s take a closer look at the need-to-know hardscaping basics for Southern NJ homeowners. That way you can stay informed and make the best choices for your home and style.
Key Elements of Hardscaping
We won’t assume that every reader here is familiar with hardscaping, so let’s start with a brief description of what’s involved. Most projects will include one or more of the following.
Pavers: In Southern NJ, options such as concrete pavers, bricks, and natural stones are popular choices. These materials are used for constructing driveways, walkways, and patios, offering a balance between durability and style.
Walls: Retaining walls are essential for managing sloped terrains, preventing soil erosion, and creating leveled spaces for gardening or other outdoor activities. Decorative walls also add a dimension of depth and character to the landscape.
Steps and Staircases: Integrating steps and staircases can enhance the accessibility and safety of outdoor spaces, connecting different levels with ease and contributing to the overall landscape aesthetics.
Keep in mind, hardscaping goes well beyond walkways, walls, and steps. For example, you can create anything from whole outdoor kitchens to elaborate swimming pools (with fountains!).
Hardscape Materials: Finding the Best Fit for You
Does it matter what kind of stone or brick you choose? Yes. Even though most hardscaping materials are durable, there are still pros and cons of each kind. What you’re using it for (and where) will determine which paver/stone will be best.
Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers are pre-cast pieces of concrete commonly used for patios, walkways, and driveways, available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.
- Advantages: Versatility, durability, and relatively easy installation. They offer a balance between cost-effectiveness and aesthetic appeal.
- Disadvantages: Can shift over time if not properly installed, and may require periodic sealing to maintain color and prevent wear.
Natural Stone
The most common include flagstone, slate, limestone, and granite. Each type has unique textures and colors, used for walkways, walls, and decorative elements, but they share the same advantages and disadvantages:
- Advantages: Natural look that can blend seamlessly into the landscape, increasing aesthetic value and durability.
- Disadvantages: Typically more expensive than other materials and can require more intensive labor to install due to irregular shapes and sizes.
Brick
And then there is good-ole, classic brick. Fired clay bricks offer a traditional look for pathways, patios, and walls.
- Advantages: Long-lasting, strong, and provides a classic aesthetic. It’s also versatile in design patterns like herringbone, basketweave, and stretcher bond.
- Disadvantages: Can be prone to moss and algae in damp conditions and may require a bit more maintenance to retain appearance.
Concrete
Poured concrete is used for patios, walkways, and driveways, and offers a smooth, solid finish.
- Advantages: Durability and versatility, with options for custom coloring and texturing (including handprints).
- Disadvantages: Cracking is usually inevitable over time due to weather conditions and ground movement, and repairs can be noticeable and unsightly.
What to Expect in the Design and Installation Process
Hardscaping is highly customizable, which means the design and layout are in your hands. But that doesn’t mean you do it alone, and it certainly doesn’t mean you install it yourself! Here is what to expect when you find a hardscaping specialist:
- Initial Consultation: The first step involves discussing your project in detail, including your design preferences, functionality needs, and budget considerations. This is a great time to express any specific desires or concerns you have regarding the project.
- Design Phase: Based on the initial consultation, a team of experienced landscape designers and hardscaping experts will create custom designs that balance beauty, comfort, and functionality. They will ensure that the proposed designs integrate seamlessly with your existing landscape and enhance the overall aesthetics of your property.
- Material Selection: You will be guided through choosing the right materials that not only fit the vision of the project but also are suitable for the local climate and conditions. Most companies provide a wide range of material options from affordable paver walkways to elaborate patio designs.
- Installation: Once the design and materials are finalized, skilled professionals will handle the installation. You want a company that emphasizes quality and efficiency, ensuring that the project adheres to the highest standards and is completed within the agreed timeline.
- Follow-Up and Maintenance: After project completion, your installer should remain available for any follow-up maintenance or adjustments.
Ready to “rock”? Eaise Design & Landscaping is your hardscaping specialist in Southern NJ! We pride ourselves on transparent communication, fair pricing, and a no-pressure service approach, ensuring that you are involved and satisfied at every stage of your hardscaping project. Give us a call!
