Winter is the perfect time to embark on a hardscape project. Although you might associate the season with lights, holiday cheer, and warm fireplaces, cold weather is great for getting outside and making improvements. You probably think of brick walkways, stone patios, and pools when you think of hardscaping. But have you ever thought about why winter is the best time to do one of those projects? There is so much attention on landscaping that fall and winter are often overlooked during the summer months, which could not be further from the truth. Everyone expects a cold and snowy winter, and then it happens:
- The ground is covered with snow.
- Temperatures are freezing.
- You can’t get out in the backyard to work.
No one wants to spend their time and money building a backyard paradise during the winter season. However, the experienced hardscape contractors at POPS Landscaping know that this season provides an opportunity for great ideas!
What Is Hardscaping?
Hardscaping means different things to different people, and the term is often used interchangeably with landscaping or hardscape landscaping. Still, it’s really a subcategory of landscaping that involves the installation of permanent structures such as stone walls, patios, walkways, and outdoor kitchens. Hardscaping usually accounts for about 40-60% of the total cost of a landscaping project. Suppose you want to build a backyard patio for entertaining and relaxing. In that case, you’ll likely spend more on the materials for the hardscape than you will on plants and other softscape materials.
Hardscape projects are a great way to add a sense of formality to your yard, and they can also provide structure for the rest of your landscaping. The best hardscape projects work in harmony with the natural beauty of your yard and home. Hardscape projects range from do-it-yourself projects like installing a flagstone walkway to large-scale landscape construction jobs that require specialized equipment, skilled labor, and extensive planning.
Are You Looking For Some Hardscape Ideas?
Hardscaping is the paved surfaces and structures of your outdoor living space. These projects will not only make your yard more attractive but also provide a way for you to enjoy it better. Check out some of these hardscape projects that can have fantastic hardscape designs:
- Patios—Whether you choose flagstone, concrete pavers, or poured concrete, patios are integral to any backyard design. They’re practical for entertaining and can serve as an extension of your indoor living space when you add hardscape lighting.
- Walkways—A hardscaped walkway will guide guests to your front door or through your landscaping. They can be composed of flagstone, pavers, or even loose materials such as gravel or mulch.
- Stone walls—Stone hardscapes are not only beautiful, but they can also provide a barrier against erosion and noise pollution. A stone wall can define a gathering space in your landscape, serve as a backdrop for plantings and enhance the appearance of your property’s entrance.
- Outdoor kitchen—With some basic carpentry skills and a little creativity, you can build the outdoor kitchen of your dreams in just a weekend or two. Not only does an outdoor kitchen add value to your home, but it extends the life of your grill by protecting it from the elements.
- Pergola—An arbor-like structure that offers shade via lattice, and it is the perfect addition to any outdoor space. Create a private oasis in your own backyard, or use it as a way to divide an outdoor living area.
- Firepit—A family’s favorite backyard hardscape ideas are firepits that serve as a great focal point and gathering spot for friends and family. If a firepit isn’t something you’re interested in, consider other types of heat like patio heaters.
- Garden fountain—A garden fountain is sure to make a statement in any yard, big or small. This could be the perfect addition if you have a pond or water feature in your yard.
Why Is The Winter The Perfect Season For Hardscape Projects
The weather may be colder than usual, but that doesn’t mean you should stop working on your landscaping projects. Winter is the perfect time to get hardscape work done.
- Easier to see your design—In the winter, it’s easier to see your design. It’s much easier to visualize a new patio or walkway when there are no leaves on your trees, flowers in your borders, and other distractions. You can see where the sun hits at different times of day and get a better sense of how you want to use your space.
- Easier to manage a project—Your project will be easier to manage. Because most homeowners aren’t making their way outside during the cold winter months, they’re less likely to disturb construction work. And contractors typically have less work on their calendar at this time of year, which means they may be able to offer better deals and complete projects sooner than if you wait until spring.
- Have more free time—Many people take vacations in the summer months, which can make it difficult for homeowners to focus on their hardscape projects because they do not have much free time. In the winter, however, most people have less going on in their lives, and this means that they will be able to devote more attention to their hardscape projects if they choose to start them in the winter months.
- A wider range of available products—You can also find a broader range of products available because people tend to buy them less in the colder seasons. For example, if you want a certain type of pavers or stone but they are out of stock at your local landscaping supply company, chances are they will be able to order it for you without having to wait until spring when everyone starts thinking about landscaping again.
- Material cost—Winter is the best time of year for hardscaping because it’s the off-season for landscapers. This means you’ll benefit from lower prices on materials and labor while having the flexibility to complete the project in stages if necessary.
- Timing—This also allows our crew to install your project before summer arrives, which is the most active season for hardscape contractors and projects. So if you start early, your project could be finished before summer arrives — which means you’ll be able to enjoy it much sooner!
Looking For A Company To Handle Hardscape Projects?
The bottom line is this: if you’re thinking of investing in a hardscaping project, winter is your best bet. When the weather is the coldest, and everyone else is home, there’s not a better time to show off your hardscaping project. Plus, when spring rolls around, you can sit back and enjoy the view with the pride of knowing that you made your investment count. Start today by calling POPS Landscaping in Marietta, GA.
