When many people think of landscaping, they envision plants, trees, shrubs, and other natural materials. This is the softscape aspect of landscaping. It also includes hardscaping, which refers to the hard materials used to complement the softer features of a design. Some specific hardscape materials include:
- Brick
- Concrete
- Metal
- Stone
- Wood
If you’re planning an upcoming project to include hardscape features, it’s important to consider how the materials will accent the design of your home. At Vir Terra Landscaping, we encourage our clients to think about whether they want to match a style or theme with the hardscape design. This is true whether you plan to complete the project right away or a few years down the road.
Factors to Consider When Adding Hardscape
Committing to a hardscape project is a huge undertaking that requires careful planning. Here are some of the most important factors to consider:
- Size of your project area: While you may desire a large hardscape such as an outdoor patio, the space you currently have available might limit you. Be sure to measure the space as well as determine the measurements of any features you want to add before moving forward with the project.
- Regulations: Your city or municipality may enforce restrictions on the materials you can install and the overall size of your project. It’s important to obtain the necessary permits before starting work on the hardscape project to avoid unnecessary delays and frustration. Failure to do so could result in having to remove materials already installed and starting the project over. You will also need to arrange for an inspection. The benefit of working with a contractor like Vir Terra Landscaping is that we already know the regulations specific to the DuBois, Pennsylvania area and the surrounding communities. This greatly expedites the permit process.
- Future repair and maintenance: All outdoor projects require ongoing maintenance and occasional repair to look and function their best. This is an important consideration when selecting materials. For example, concrete typically costs less upfront but will eventually need repair for cracks and color fading. We will provide you with detailed information about each type of material so you can make the best decision for your project.
- Your budget: How much can you afford to spend on the hardscape project? Would it be better to complete it now or save for a while so you can have all the features you want?
We are happy to answer any additional questions you have about planning a future hardscape project.