How to Hardscape a Front Yard
Patios, stone beams, retaining walls, pergolas, fences and driveways are hardscaping elements used to create an appealing and usable outdoor living room. Hardscaping can be integrated into a garden or can be used as the chief landscaping instrument in areas where grass lawns and other plants are hard to grow. This is particularly helpful once you want a welcoming front yard but only can’t get grass to remain nice. Hardscaping is simple as soon as you learn a few straightforward hints and tips.
Plan your hardscape on paper to make sure you like it and it’s feasible. Take into account how the distance will flow and be the most useable in addition to any obstacles you may face. Concrete driveways and underground fountain plumbing, for instance, cannot be placed beside a massive tree with roots near the surface, like poplar trees (Populus). Work with the existing landscape elements whenever possible to save time, money and maintenance.
Eliminate any present grass, plants or weeds located in regions you want to hardscape. Huge rocks and boulders should even be eliminated unless you plant to incorporate them in the plan.
Check with the local utility company prior to digging, then install any hardscape elements that need digging, like pergolas, fences, retaining walls or drainage pipes.
Excavate areas where you’ll install gravel, bricks, concrete or pavers. Dig deep enough to accommodate the height of this material in addition to its foundation. Compact and level the ground to ensure the foundation is firm. Lay weed barrier spread and down a 1-inch foundation of polymeric sand above the region. Put your hardscaping ground elements above the prepared base. Fill the joints of bricks and hardened with sand. Cure poured concrete.
Insert green elements like potted plants, raised flower beds, or groundcovers between the stones of a walkway to soften the layout. Include as much or as little greenery as you like and can keep in your layout, but make sure you add at least a few softening touches against your hardscape.