What Materials Are Used in Hardscaping?

SEF Construction and Landscaping is a trusted landscaper in Colorado Springs. We've been helping homeowners achieve the yards of their dreams for over 20 years. And we know that hardscaping is a big part of any landscape renovation.

When you hear the word, "hardscaping," you might think of concrete. But hardscaping is so much more than that! You can think of hardscaping as anything that isn't a natural or organic part of a landscape project. Think stone pathway leading to the garden or a wide patio perfect for entertaining friends.

As you think about your hardscaping project, consider these materials. Get inspired! Maybe even get surprised by the possibilities.

Hardscaping materials include:

• Concrete: used for sidewalks, driveways, and patios

• Pavers: made of brick, stone, or concrete, used for patios and walkways

• Natural stone: such as flagstone or fieldstone, used for patios and walkways

• Gravel: used for pathways and as a ground cover

• Brick: used for patios, walkways, and walls

• Timber: used for decks and retaining walls

• Metal: used for fences, gates, and railings

• Synthetic materials: such as plastic lumber or composite decking, used for decks and other outdoor structures.

Before installing hardscaping, you'll want to prep the area well. You'll need heavy machinery or at least a few strong hands to lift materials into place. You'll also want to install specialized fractured gravel beneath most hardscaping features in order to set a strong foundation and prevent damage from freeze/thaw cycles. If you don't prep hardscaping well, you're going to run into uneven pavers and cracked patios.

So, before you move ahead with your hardscaping project, consider the materials you'd like to use and then make sure you have the expertise and ability to install the project correctly. When in doubt, use a trusted landscape contractor.

The SEF team would love to meet with you to discuss your hardscaping project in Colorado Springs. Give us a call at 719-492-4291 or fill out our contact form. We'll be in touch shortly!