Landscape edging, also known as a garden border, is an essential aspect of any well-maintained lawn or garden. Not only does it add an aesthetically pleasing touch, but it also serves several practical purposes, including preventing grass and grass roots from encroaching on flower beds, keeping mulch in place, and creating a defined border between lawn and garden areas.
One of the most critical aspects of lawn edging is choosing the right material for the job. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the most popular landscape edging materials and their pros and cons to help you come up with your own garden edging ideas and choose the material most suited to your situation.
Popular Landscape Edging Options: Pros and Cons
There is a wide range of edging materials to choose from. Each material has its own set of pros and cons, making it more suitable for certain landscapes than others. Here is what you need to know about some of the most-used edging materials.
Concrete Edging
Concrete is a terrific choice when it comes to landscape edging as it offers unmatched durability and versatility. This material can be altered into virtually any form or design, allowing for plenty of creative ways to accentuate your garden bed and delineate areas of your landscape. Concrete also has the added benefit of being well-equipped to endure any type of weather conditions.
Although it does require some occasional upkeep, concrete requires much less maintenance than other materials on the market. However, one aspect that may present an obstacle for some consumers is its cost-prohibitive nature compared to other materials. Of course, there are some downsides to consider too; not only is concrete pricier than some other materials available on the market, but it can become cracked or chipped over time despite its strength.
Plastic Edging
Plastic edging is an economical yet highly effective choice for those looking to maximize their budget while also creating a polished aesthetic. Because it is relatively simple and straightforward to install, anyone with basic gardening skills has the ability to give their garden a refined and modern look. In fact, sleek 'no-dig' plastic edging systems are quickly growing in popularity as property owners opt for convenience and creative freedom these edgings provide when it comes to outlining or dividing lawn and garden beds.
Despite offering many benefits such as affordability and ease of installation, plastic landscape edging typically lacks durability when compared to other systems, like metal for example. Particularly when exposed to harsh weather conditions, it can become brittle over time and lose its initial shape.
Metal Edging
Metal landscape edging is often the go-to choice for modern landscape designs. It comes in a range of materials and is highly durable and long-lasting. Metal edging is also relatively low maintenance, with little to no upkeep required. That said, it can be more expensive than other options, and may rust or corrode over time.
Metal landscape edging is considered to be the best landscape edging by some due to its durability and versatility. When it comes to metal edgings, three common materials are aluminum, stainless steel, and galvanized steel.
Aluminum Edging Systems
Aluminum edgings are lightweight, easy to install, and rust-resistant. They are also flexible, making them a great choice for curved edges. However, aluminum is not as durable as other metals and may not withstand heavy traffic effectively.
Stainless Steel Edging Systems
Stainless steel edgings are strong and long-lasting, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. They are also resistant to rust and corrosion, which is great for humid or wet environments. These benefits do however mean that stainless steel edgings are generally more expensive than other materials.
Galvanized Steel Edging Systems
Galvanized steel edgings are also durable and strong, making them a great option for heavy use. They are also more affordable than stainless steel, making them a great alternative if you are looking for a durable material but are deterred by the price of stainless steel edgings.
Stone Edging
Stone landscape edging is a popular choice for those looking to add a little extra style to their garden or lawn. An elegant and timeless option that comes in a vast array of styles and colors, stone edging can elevate any outdoor space. Not to mention, it is highly durable and it retains its integrity for many years.
That being said, stone landscape edging does have some disadvantages; it is typically more expensive than other materials, and professional installation is usually required, which drives up the cost further. Also, it can be difficult to maintain, as dirt or debris can get lodged in the gaps between stones. All in all, stone landscape edging is a great option if you account for the additional costs and upkeep.
Wood Edging
Wood borders are an ideal choice for those looking to add a natural edging element to their outdoor decor. Its affordability and ease of installation make it an attractive option, and its ability to be stained or painted mean that it can fit in with any color scheme.
While wood edging has many advantages, its lack of durability means it requires regular care in order to ensure that the integrity of the structure remains intact. With proper maintenance and occasional replacement, wood edging can make for a long lasting addition to any landscape design.
Choosing the Best Material for Your Landscape
Choosing the best landscape edging material for your needs can be a daunting task with so many options available. To start, consider the type of project you have in mind and the conditions the edging will be exposed to.
For example, if your project involves a high-traffic area, a durable and long-lasting material like stainless steel or galvanized steel might be the best option. On the other hand, if your project involves curved edges, a flexible and lightweight material like plastic or aluminum might be more suitable.
Next, consider the look and feel of the edging material. If you're looking for a more natural or rustic aesthetic, materials like wood or stone might be a good choice. If you prefer a modern or industrial look, metal or concrete might be more fitting.
Finally, think about your budget and long-term maintenance needs. Some materials might be more expensive initially, but may require less maintenance over time. Others might be more affordable, but may require regular upkeep to prevent rust or degradation. By considering these factors, you can choose the best landscape edging material that meets your needs and complements your landscaping project.
Vodaland Has Everything You Need for Your Edging Project
Landscape edging is a crucial aspect of any well-maintained lawn or garden. Choosing the right material for the job can make a significant difference in the appearance and functionality of your landscape. But beyond choosing the right material, you also need high quality materials. Luckily, Vodaland USA is the industry standard when it comes to edgings and other landscape solutions.
All our products are manufactured by us with the goal of providing elegant and safe solutions for your various landscaping needs. So if you're in the market for landscape edgings and need help choosing the right system, or maybe you just have a few questions you need answered, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of highly-skilled professionals is here to help you take your landscapes to the next level.
