Contemporary landscape design craves more than just green features like plants, trees and lawns. Hardscapes are also integral for function and composition when it comes to creating a unique, outdoor space. Hardscapes are non-living elements like pavers, stone, asphalt, concrete, and bricks. Your landscaping should have a balance of both soft and hardscapes; their harmony will provide a seamless segue from home to yard. Though hardscapes may seem like they demand less attention than living components, low-maintenance does not mean no-maintenance. It’s still important to care for these elements on a regular basis to preserve their value and enhance longevity. Don’t take it for granite, follow this plan for not-so-hard hardscape maintenance.
Clean
One of the first steps in any maintenance routine is cleanup. Blow off excess leaves, dirt or debris and remove weeds that may have sprouted up in cracks. Once you’ve tidied up the hardscape, a deeper cleaning can then be applied. Pressure washing concrete or stone pavers can be an effective way to push out mildew and mold, which can create stains as well as slipping hazards. Its important to check if your hardscape has a sealant prior to pressure washing as this can strip the protectant right off. An alternative option is using liquid soap or natural stone cleaner and a bristle broom, but again, be mindful of too harsh of chemicals that could erode the material or tools that form scratches. Porous matter like concrete and stone are susceptible to mineral buildup, cracking and discoloration, so deep cleaning and spot treatments are necessary for conserving the integrity of your hardscapes.
Repair
Pavers that have cracks or are loose should be mended or replaced, do this quickly to prevent the issue from growing. If your pavers are separating, it may be due to poor base compaction, inadequate soil or loose edges. If raising or sinking is occurring, this could be a sign of a much larger issue like decomposing material, tree roots or water drainage. Another structure to inspect for potential water damage is your retaining wall. Be sure the drains are free of any clogging and check for signs of pooling, especially where soil meets the wall. When concrete begins to crack, (and it will), make sure it is due to natural settling and not outside forces like tree roots or drainage issues. Contacting a professional landscape company at the first sign of these complications can help save you from a much larger headache than if left untreated.
Seal
It seems counterintuitive, but hardscapes are actually quite porous and can absorb liquids and substances that may be spilled on them. Weather exposure can be brutal on certain hardscapes, not to mention staining and sediment build-up. A good way to protect your hardscape from staining or discoloration is to seal it. Sealing your hard elements is similar to sealing a deck or natural wood. Typically, it can be rolled on like paint and multiple coats applied. There are many stain options which can provide a rich color while also defending against deterioration. Choose a natural finish to keep it simple, or opt for a “wet” finish that will give it a nice shine.
Though most hardscapes bode durability, they can still be vulnerable to harsh seasons and environmental breakdowns over time. Concrete evidence shows that these proactive measures will help keep your landscaping in pristine condition over the years to come. Don’t find out the hard way, cement these tips into your annual outdoor checklist and make hardscape maintenance easy!