LANDSCAPING GUIDE FAQ
Outdoor Living Design in Howard County, Carroll County, Ellicott City, Clarksville, Dayton, Glenwood, MD, and the Surrounding Areas
LANDSCAPING GUIDE FAQ
Outdoor Living Design in Howard County, Carroll County, Ellicott City, Clarksville, Dayton, Glenwood, MD, and the Surrounding Areas
Choosing the right materials can be a challenge — let us help!
When it comes to your landscape design, selecting the right hardscape materials is a crucial step in creating outdoor spaces that are both functional and appealing. There are plenty of options when picking materials, each providing different benefits and drawbacks. Finding the right mix of materials that offer beauty, durability, and affordability often requires a creative approach, especially since some options can be quite costly when used over large areas.
Whether you’re planning a new patio, walkway, pool area, or decorative accent, understanding the strengths and best uses for each material will help you make informed decisions.
Patios, walkways, and steps, for example, need materials that can handle heavy foot traffic on top of the normal weather wear and tear. Materials such as interlocking pavers or durable natural stones like bluestone work well for these areas. In contrast, when picking materials for pool patios, the priority is a balance of function and aesthetic, making slip-resistant and heat-resistant travertine and marble good selections.
With so many aspects to consider, let us share with you the top tips for picking the best materials for your outdoor spaces.
When designing outdoor spaces, hardscaping materials like natural stone, pavers, accents, etc. have their strengths, but each is best suited for specific uses.
Natural stones like flagstone offer a classic, timeless look. Tile, such as porcelain tile, is growing in popularity due to its low porosity, making it resistant to water damage. Interlocking pavers are classic, affordable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns, making them a versatile choice.
Requirements: Patios and walkways require durable materials that effectively match their surroundings as they cover a large space. The material should also be resistant to weather conditions in our region.
Maintenance: Natural stone and interlocking pavers benefit from sealing to maintain their appearance and resist stains. Pavers may need to be realigned over time as they can shift. Interlocking pavers benefit from future maintenance and polymeric sand replacement.
Our Top Pick: Bluestone – This natural stone is durable, versatile, and simply stunning. Bluestone comes with a range of color variations that can complement nearly any style. It offers an increased slip-resistant surface, making it ideal for outdoor use, especially in high-traffic areas.
Natural stone is an excellent choice for hardscape accents and is perfect for adding a touch of elegance and character. Natural stone accents may be used for steps, retaining walls, fire pits, seating walls, garden borders, and more. Popular options include flagstone, sandstone, and travertine each offering a variety of textures and tones.
Requirements: Accent areas have greater flexibility when it comes to durability as the main purpose of an accent is often focused on aesthetics and function. However, for use in high traffic areas, there are many great natural stone options that provide just as much beauty as they do strength.
Maintenance: Natural stone requires periodic maintenance to retain its appearance. Sealing and cleaning is recommended to protect against stains and weathering, especially for more porous stones.
Our Top Pick: Flagstone – This stands out for its natural beauty and versatility, making it suitable for various accents, from garden walls to stepping stones.
Composite decking offers a durable, low-maintenance alternative to wood decking that mimics the beauty of wood without the hassle, making it ideal for modern outdoor spaces.
Requirements: Deck materials must be weather-resistant, durable, and capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic. The material should also resist rot, insects, and UV damage
Maintenance: Composite decking requires minimal upkeep compared to wood. Occasional cleaning with soap and water is usually enough to keep it looking new. There’s no need for staining, sealing, or treating, making it a long-term, low-maintenance choice.
Our Top Pick: Composite decking – This is the preferred choice because of its durability and low-maintenance needs. It resists fading, scratching, and moisture damage, retaining its appearance for years without the extensive care that wood demands. Plus, it’s available in a wide range of colors and finishes to suit any design style.
Popular retaining wall materials include natural stone, segmental block, and brick, each offering different benefits in terms of aesthetics, durability, and cost.
Requirements: Retaining wall materials must be sturdy, long-lasting, and capable of withstanding soil pressure and weather conditions. Proper drainage behind the wall is also essential to prevent water buildup, which could compromise the wall’s integrity. Materials should be chosen based on the wall’s height and intended use, with structural support prioritized for larger projects.
Maintenance: Retaining walls typically require minimal maintenance. Cleaning the wall and checking drainage systems regularly can help maintain its appearance and function. Natural stone may need occasional cleaning, while segmental blocks and bricks may require occasional weeding.
Firepits and outdoor fireplaces create a warm and inviting atmosphere in any outdoor living space. Common materials include natural stone, interlocking block, and brick.
Requirements: Materials used for firepits and fireplaces must be able to withstand high temperatures and be durable enough to resist cracking or deterioration from heat exposure. It’s also important for the material to be non-combustible and provide a stable surface for construction.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is needed to keep firepits and fireplaces in good condition. This includes general cleaning and cleaning any soot buildup. Natural stone may require occasional joint repairs over time.
Our Top Pick: Natural Stone – Natural stone is a top choice for firepits and fireplaces because of its heat resistance and timeless appeal. It offers a rustic, organic look that blends beautifully with outdoor surroundings. Stones like granite or bluestone are particularly durable, holding up well under high heat and offering a long lifespan with minimal maintenance needs.
Natural stone, tile, and brick pavers are all popular choices for pool patios. The preferred option is typically influenced by the traditional or modern style of your pool and home’s exterior.
Requirements: Pool patio materials must be durable and strong enough to withstand exposure to pool water and pool chemicals. Heat resistance is also important to keep the surface from becoming too hot underfoot.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance includes cleaning to remove dirt, algae, or mildew, as well as resealing materials against water absorption and stains. Grout and joints may need attention to prevent cracks or deterioration over time, and occasional leveling or repair of pavers might be necessary.
Our Top Pick: Interlocking Pavers – Because of it’s versatility and adaptability to its many conditions to maintain good with low heat retention.
Natural Stone
Cost: $$$$
Natural stone is typically more expensive due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. Prices can vary significantly based on the type of stone and local availability.
Interlocking Pavers
Cost: $$$
Interlocking Pavers can range from mid-range to high-end depending on the design. They are generally more affordable but may not be suitable for all outdoor uses.
We are here to help you determine the best hardscaping and landscape design for your property in Howard County, Carroll County, Ellicott City, Clarksville, Dayton, Glenwood, MD, or the surrounding areas.
At the end of the day, the best hardscape materials for your landscape will depend on your goals, budget, and specific environmental factors. When designing your dream landscape, you can trust the experts at Absolute Landscapes for the best design and installation services in the county.
If you need help planning your next landscape renovation project, reach out to our team today to schedule a consultation.
