making landscaping beautiful and beneficial

Landscaping usually refers to the lawn, plants, and soil. However, a great yard also has hardscaping features like decks. If you would like to know more about hardscaping options for your yard, keep reading. 

1. Patio/Deck

Adding a patio or deck is a great way to define a space for cooking, eating, playing, etc. Patios are often made from cement, but contractors also use brick, stone, tile, and much more. Most contractors use wood, composite wood, or vinyl for decks.

Most patios and decks are installed right outside the house, making it easy to add an awning to provide shade from the sun and protection from the rain. Make sure to maintain your gutters to prevent water from spilling out onto the patio or deck. Constant exposure to dripping water can erode various materials, including cement.

2. Fence

There are many types of fences and fencing materials from which to choose. Ultimately, the right fence depends on your needs. For example, if you want privacy and security, consider a wooden or vinyl privacy fence. These tall fences block sound and prying eyes. They also help keep kids and pets secure inside the yard while preventing unwanted visitors from getting into the yard. Besides privacy fences, other types of fences include wrought iron, aluminum, chain-link, and sound-dampening fences.

Before installing any fence, check with your local laws. There may be limits on how tall you can build a fence in the front yard and the back yard.

3. Paths

Paths are a great addition to any yard. They make it easier for people to get around safely, reducing the risk of trips and falls. They also help direct guests toward different outdoor spaces. Like patios, many materials can be used to craft patios.

However, many people simply use loose gravel for paths because it's cheap and easy. You will have to occasionally add more gravel as it gets knocked off the path or pushed into the dirt. Don't forget to add lights along the path to help further reduce the risk of tripping.

4. Pergola/Gazebo

A pergola or a gazebo is another great way to easily define a space. Gazebos are freestanding structures with roofs, so you can install them anywhere in the yard and still find relief from sunlight and rain. Depending on the size, they can take up a lot of space, so they may not be great in small backyards.

If a gazebo is too big, consider a pergola. These can be freestanding, but they can also be connected to another structure (like your house). Unlike a gazebo or awning, a pergola doesn't have a solid roof. It does, however, have some protection from rain and sun. You can increase this protection by adding plants to the pergola.

Don't overlook hardscaping options when designing your backyard. They help define spaces and improve the appearance of the yard. If you would like to know more, contact a hardscaping service, such as Precision Hardscapes & Excavating LLC.