Hardscaping is an essential part of landscaping; it brings the human to the flora and fauna. In this article, we explore what hardscaping is, and how you can maximize it to your advantage.
What Is Hardscaping?
The hardscape is the part of a landscape that is not the green, nature-based components. Hardscaping can be composed of: patios, decks, the pool and surrounding areas, paths, structures like pergolas and gazebos, walls, fences, edging, and decorative stones and rocks.
Hardscaping can be made from a number of materials from asphalt, to brick, to tile, and many more. The material often depends on the function of the element. For example, a fence made entirely out of tiles is impractical, if not impossible.
In Florida, the most common types of hardscaping are patios and porches, as well as the areas surrounding a pool. Typically, porches and patios are both covered, in order to provide shade.
Asphalt Hardscaping
Asphalt is a great option for hardscaping elements such as pathways and covered patios or porches. The main advantage of asphalt is the price. It is by far the cheapest of the possible materials and lasts for a very long time. Asphalt also has the advantage of cooling and solidifying fairly quickly.
Pros
Asphalt is also extremely durable. If you seal the material every couple of years and care for it properly, an asphalt patio can last you up to 30 years. This durability is especially useful for homes that have children or animals.
In addition to being durable, asphalt is low maintenance and easy to clean. A strong hose can remove most dirt. A quick sweep using a stiff broom will remove the rest of the debris from the asphalt.
Traditionally aesthetic choices, such as tile or brick, tend to cheap easily and show wear and tear. So how do you get function and beauty? The answer is simple: stamped asphalt. Stamped asphalt can have patterns, shapes, even logos and words. Stamped asphalt can also be colored to look like a different type of stone or material.
Cons
The major drawback to asphalt is that it gets very hot, particularly in the intense Florida sun. So for an area like a pool deck, it would be a poor choice. However, this is not a major deal for paths because people will have shoes on. Covered patios and porches also work because they are not exposed to the sun, so the asphalt never has the chance to overheat.
Another issue with asphalt is that the edges have a tendency to crumble and deteriorate. There is a fairly easy solution to this problem though. If concrete edging is poured, or brick edging laid before the asphalt is installed, the asphalt will not chip or fall apart on the edges.