In 2022, there were 143 million homes in the US.
Are you building a new home? Are you confused about landscaping?
In improving your home’s curb appeal, the answer is simple: softscape and hardscape! Both options can enhance your residential aesthetic. You might have heard these words a time or two, but you might be unsure what they mean for your design.
If you’re interested in improving the outdoor space around your home, it’s vital to consider the varying options. Read on to learn the difference between softscape and hardscape design.
Materials Used
In the softscape feature, much softer materials are being used. This includes soil, plants, mulch, gravel, and other organic items. These materials are used to form pathways, walls, terraces, and other aspects of the landscape.
Hardscape design uses hard elements, which create unique structures. This includes bricks, boulders, concrete, and any other materials with a more rigid structure. These items create a defined look, such as fire pits and water features.
If you’re interested in enhancing your outdoor living space, it’s best to check on companies like Hydro Dynamics first. Working with professional contractors ensures the best results for your project.
Costs of Softscape vs Hardscape
Softscape and hardscape have their own distinct costs. Hardscape is a landscape design created with features such as structures, pathways, decks, patios, and retaining walls. This is more expensive due to the added labor and materials required for construction projects.
The cost of landscape design between softscape vs hardscape can also depend on the complexity of the design and the size of the area of the landscape. In summary, a softscape is more cost-efficient. A hardscape requires more expense for materials and construction.
Longevity and Visual Appeal
Softscape examples, comprising living plant matter, have an ever-changing, vibrant quality. They add beauty to any space. Thus, it requires more maintenance and upkeep than a hardscape.
Hardscape example design usually comprises man-made materials such as stone, wood, metal, and mulch. It has a more lasting quality and can provide a more pleasing result without putting in a lot of effort.
You may also need to replace your softscape because of changes in climate, sunlight, or damage. Hardscape is often much more durable and resistant to change or damage.
Proper Maintenance
Softscape designs need appropriate maintenance based on specific plant types and their growth speed. Hardscape examples focus on the construction of walls, patio pavers, ponds, and gardens.
Ensuring effective maintenance, both creative and functional, provides the durability of the space. Proper maintenance of hardscape and softscape features is significant. They ensure that the outdoor space is safe and attractive for many years.
The Difference Between Softscape and Hardscape Design You Should Know
Softscape and hardscape design give a garden space shape, structure, and practicality. Softscaping is best used to add color, texture, and life, whereas hardscaping provides visual backbone and usefulness. It is best to consider the softscapes and hardscape elements of materials used, the cost for soft scaping and hardscaping, longevity and visual appeal, and proper maintenance.
To learn more about how you can use softscape and hardscape design to create your dream landscape, contact a local landscaping professional today.
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