How to Choose the Right Hardscaping Materials

Hardscaping uses permanent materials to create walkways, patios, retaining walls, and other features in your landscape. It can be a great way to add beauty, functionality, and value to your home. But with so many different hardscaping materials to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. At Kilgore Landscape Center, we’re here to help you choose the right hardscaping products, whether you’re a first time DIYer or a contractor with 20+ years of experience. As the premier Salt Lake landscape center, we’re here for your needs from Mexican beach cobble to decorative landscaping rock.

What is Hardscaping?

Hardscaping is any permanent outdoor construction that is not made of plants. This includes materials such as concrete, brick, stone, gravel, and pavers. Hardscaping can be used to create a variety of features in your landscape, such as:

• Walkways
• Patios
• Retaining walls
• Fire pits
• Fountains
• Garden beds

Why is it Important to Choose the Right Hardscaping Materials?

The right hardscaping products can make a big difference in the look and feel of your landscape. They can also help to improve the functionality of your space. For example, a well-designed patio can provide a comfortable place to relax and entertain guests. A retaining wall can help to prevent erosion and create a level surface for planting.

On the other hand, the wrong hardscaping materials can be unsightly, uncomfortable, and even dangerous. That's why it's important to choose the right materials for your needs. Mexican beach pebble adds functionality and sophistication to your space.

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Hardscaping Materials?

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing hardscaping materials. These include:

Budget

Hardscaping can be a significant investment, so it's important to set a budget before you start shopping. There are hardscaping materials to fit every budget, from affordable gravel to more expensive natural stone. Enjoy decorative landscaping rock on any budget. 

When setting your budget, it's important to consider the size of the area you're hardscaping, the type of materials you want to use, and the labor cost. You'll also need to factor in the cost of any permits or inspections that may be required.

Once you have a budget, you can shop for hardscaping materials. Getting quotes from multiple contractors to compare prices is a good idea. You should also be sure to ask about the materials' quality and the warranty offered.

Climate

The climate in your area will affect the type of hardscaping materials best suited for your needs. For example, if you live in a cold climate, you must choose materials that can withstand freezing temperatures. Some hardscaping materials, such as concrete and brick, are more durable in cold climates than others, such as gravel.

If you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow, you'll need to choose materials resistant to moisture. Some hardscaping materials, such as concrete and natural stone, are more moisture-resistant than others, such as gravel.

It's also important to consider the amount of sunlight your yard gets. If your yard gets a lot of sun, you must choose materials that are not susceptible to fading. Some hardscaping materials, such as concrete and brick, are more resistant to fading than others, such as natural stone.

As a Salt Lake landscape center, we are familiar with the extreme climate of Utah and can guide you accordingly.

Style

The style of your home and yard will also affect the type of hardscaping materials that you choose. For example, if you have a traditional home, you might want to choose hardscaping materials that are also traditional in style. Some hardscaping materials, such as natural stone, can be used to create various styles, while others, such as concrete, are more suited for a modern look.

If you're unsure what style you want, you can look at photos of other homes and yards for inspiration. You can also talk to a landscape designer to get their recommendations.

Durability

Hardscaping materials should be durable enough to withstand the elements and regular use. Some hardscaping materials, such as concrete, are more durable than others, such as gravel.

If you live in an area with harsh winters, you must choose materials resistant to cracking and chipping. Some hardscaping materials, such as concrete and brick, are more resistant to cracking and chipping than others, such as natural stone.

You should also consider the amount of traffic your hardscaping will receive. If you have a lot of foot traffic, you'll need to choose materials that are able to withstand wear and tear. Some hardscaping materials, such as concrete and brick, are more resistant to wear and tear than others, such as natural stone.

Maintenance

Hardscaping materials should be easy to maintain. Some hardscaping materials, such as concrete, require very little maintenance, while others, such as natural stone, may require more frequent cleaning and sealing.

If you don't have a lot of time to maintain your hardscaping, you'll want to choose materials that are low-maintenance. Some hardscaping materials, such as concrete and brick, are low-maintenance, while others, such as natural stone, may require more frequent cleaning and sealing.

Where to Buy Hardscaping Materials: Kilgore Landscape Center

Kilgore Landscape Center is a full-service landscape supplier located in Utah. We carry various hardscaping materials, including concrete, brick, stone, gravel, and pavers. Browse our selection online, or come see us at our showroom. 

Conclusion

Hardscaping is a great way to add beauty, functionality, and value to your home. By choosing the right hardscaping products, you can create a stylish and durable space.

Here are some key takeaways from this blog:

• Hardscaping materials should be chosen based on budget, climate, style, durability, and maintenance requirements.
• There are a variety of hardscaping materials available, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks.
• Kilgore Landscape Center is a great resource for hardscaping materials in Utah.

We hope this blog post has helped you learn more about hardscaping and choosing the right materials for your needs. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. 

Kilgore Landscape Center is here to help you choose the right hardscaping products, no matter your experience level. Whether you are a first-time DIYer or a seasoned contractor, we have the knowledge and expertise to help you create the perfect outdoor space. We carry a wide variety of hardscaping products, from Mexican beach cobble to decorative landscaping rock. We are the premier Salt Lake landscape center, and we are here to serve your needs.