6 Reasons You Should Hardscape Your Backyard

When designing their backyards, many homeowners assume that laying concrete will be the best—and most affordable—option. However, that’s not always the case. 

Depending on the size of the project and the materials used, hardscaping may be the better option. If you’re on the fence, here are six reasons you should consider hardscaping your next backyard project. 

1. Increased Control

Hardscaping gives homeowners more control over their backyard spaces. They’re not at the mercy of Mother Nature to determine what areas they can build on and what areas need to remain untouched. 

Hardscaping offers increased control and flexibility, which is especially important for those with sloped properties. With retaining walls, you can increase your yard's usable space and carve out different areas for fire pits, outdoor kitchens, play areas, gardens, and more. 

Additionally, you can add designated areas for planting, which can be attractive for those with a green thumb. Raised planters will keep your plants safe from accidentally being trampled on or eaten by wild animals or pests. It can also attract pollinators, helping make your land more fertile in the long run.

You have more control over your yard’s layout with hardscaping, and you can make it fit your lifestyle. 

2. Reduced Maintenance 

Hardscaping reduces the amount of greenery you’ll need to mow, making a substantial difference for those with large yards to care for. However, you’ll need to maintain it in different ways, including sweeping and power washing. If you have trees, you’ll still have to rake it.

Additionally, depending on the materials used, you may need to reseal your hardscape every few years to maintain its lifespan. This can help prevent the pavers from cracking and reduce the UV damage. Regular upkeep and routine maintenance can prolong the lifespan of your hardscape backyard. 

3. Enhanced Drainage 

Many homes have drainage issues, which cause areas of their yard to pool water. If the house is at the bottom, it may even flood due to heavy rains. Hardscaping is a great way to enhance your home’s drainage and address these issues. It can change your property’s natural water flow, creating new paths to improve drainage. 

Additionally, some pavers have more porous surfaces than concrete. This allows water to penetrate into the ground rather than pool on the surface. Not only does this prevent flooding, but it can also be healthier for your soil.

4. Reduces Erosion 

Soil constantly exposed to the elements can erode, especially if it's not densely packed. The effects of erosion can be compounded if the soil is on an upward or downward slope. If your property has issues with soil erosion, hardscaping can help.

Retaining walls, pathways, and patios can help hold the soil in place and add additional protection to the area to prevent erosion from occurring. Homeowners will experience reduced costs, especially as they no longer need to replace the soil as frequently. If they are gardeners, some homeowners may experience a healthier garden.

Erosion can also cause structural damage, landslides, and flooding in homes, and hardscaping is a great way to prevent these issues. 

5. Increases Property Value 

Everyone is always looking to improve their home’s curb appeal, and hardscaping is a fantastic way to add value. Whether stone walkways or outdoor kitchens, hardscaping features increase your home’s property value.

These features help set your home apart from similar properties and make it more attractive to potential buyers. As a result, they can increase your home’s asking price, making them a great return on investment.

Potential buyers won’t have to invest in creating these additional features. Instead, they’ll be able to reap the benefits—and will pay a premium to do so.

6. Promotes Safety

Paved walkways and paths make it easier to navigate your backyard. You have a clear path to walk, and you’ll have a lower risk of tripping. Additionally, many pavers are textured. This added grip prevents people from slipping on surfaces, especially if the ground is wet or icy.

Built-in hardscape surfaces will prevent wear and tear on your yard and guide foot traffic between areas, even at night. Lighter colors, combined with outdoor illumination, can promote visibility. The hardscaping is easier to see as you navigate your outdoor spaces and provides visual cues to help you navigate your backyard no matter the time of day. 

Conclusion 

Concrete isn’t the only option when it comes to creating permanent landscaping in your backyard, and don’t let the fear of cost hold you back from hardscaping your backyard. If you’re curious, look up hardscaping materials for sale. You can get a sense of the different types of materials, what they cost, and how you can use them to create a backyard hangout. 

Hardscaping can be a fantastic way to create an oasis that promotes peace and relaxation while yielding real and tangible benefits to your home. It’s no question that it’s a value add to your home.