When you hear the word “landscaping,” chances are you’re picturing sunny days, beautiful flowers, and the smell of freshly-cut grass. But that’s only part of it.
Hardscaping is an element just as essential in keeping yards functional and pleasant.
When it comes to hardscaping, it’s a common belief that projects like patios and walkways are best left for the warmer months. This is actually far from true. Not only is it possible to tackle those dream hardscaping ideas in the winter and fall, but it can even be preferable. In this article we will dive into some of the reasons why that is, and some additional ideas to consider for these colder months.
Why Hardscape in Fall and Winter?
Before you push your outdoor plans to next year’s to-do list, consider these benefits of taking on hardscape projects during the chillier seasons:
- Quick Turnaround Times: As mentioned above, many people don’t think about outside projects like hardscaping as a fall or winter project. The good news for you is less demand means more options for materials and quicker turn-around times.
- Gentle on Your Lawn: Colder ground is less susceptible to damage, unlike the muddy conditions of spring, or even certain times of the summer under drought conditions.
- Reduced Disturbance to other Plants: During the fall and winter, many plants are dormant or have reduced growth, minimizing the chances of damage during the hardscaping process.
- Spring-Ready: When spring comes around your hands will probably be full with other outdoor priorities. Getting that stone work done now will not only free up the spring time but add all the more to your yard’s appearance!
Fall Hardscaping Projects and Tips
1. Outdoor Fireplaces
When it comes to hardscaping ideas that are especially fitting for the colder months, fireplaces are hard to beat. Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits can come in many designs and shapes. In fact, one of the unique characteristics of stone or brick fireplaces is how much of a say you can have in its design. Make sure to check out the different types of fireplaces so that you know what your options are before you settle on one. Here are a few:
Sunken Fire Pit: As the name implies, Sunken fire pits are set below ground level. They often feature built-in seating around the pit, offering a cozy and private space for gatherings.
Natural Stone Fire Pit: Natural stone fire pits use irregularly shaped stones to create a rustic and organic appearance.
Gas Fireplace: one of the advantages of a hardscape fireplace is that you also have the option of a gas system. A gas fireplace allows for easy ignition and flame control and the convenience of a switch or knob.
2. Walkways
There are many designs and types of hardscaping walkways to consider, but one of the most rewarding things about walkways is the comfort and ease they bring to everyday tasks. Whether it’s getting wood for your fireplace, needing to take a trip to the backyards shed, or just wanting to enjoy the outdoors close to home, stone or brick walkways provide the best experience.
3. Patios
Patios, probably one of the most popular hardscaping plans, not only increase the appearance of your yard but also make it much more practical. And more than that, they can be quite affordable to have put in. While all the advantages of a hardscape patio would take up more space than this article could handle, we will just name a few:
Durability: Hardscape patios are built with durable materials such as concrete, pavers, brick, or natural stone. These materials can withstand exposure to the elements without deteriorating over time.
Low Maintenance: Compared to traditional wood decks or softscape features like grass, hardscape patios are relatively low maintenance. They don’t require regular staining, sealing, or mowing, making them a convenient choice for homeowners.
Easy Cleanup: Hardscape patios are easy to clean. You can sweep away debris, hose off dirt or spills, and perform occasional maintenance without the need for special equipment or chemicals.
4. Water Features
Do you enjoy hikes along the creek, sitting beside a park fountain, or the sound of rushing waterfalls? Well, hardscaping can bring all this (and more) to the convenience of your own home. Consider looking into hardscape water features like fountains, waterfalls, ponds, and even small streams. We know what you might be thinking: “for the winter?” Yes! Even if you are unable to fill them with water immediately, there will be no delay to enjoying them when spring comes.
Hardscapes Maintenance Tips
Once you have your hardscape installed, how do you keep it functional and looking good? These few habits will help do just that:
- Sealing
- Repair when Damaged
- Pull Weeds From Cracks
- Clean Often
Takeaway?
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that all things outdoors need to wait for the warmer months. Take advantage of the benefits that winter and fall bring! And if you have any other questions or hardscaping plans you want to make happen this winter, Eaise Design and Landscaping Inc. is here to help!