Customizing The Materials For Your Next Landscaping Overhaul
There are several factors to consider when choosing materials to use in your landscaping renovation plans. Paying attention to these factors will allow you to choose materials that will complement your home, your environment and your sense of style, while also remaining viable for decades. Working with a good landscaping contractor and a knowledgeable supplier will help to ensure you get the best value on the right materials for your project.
Climate Considerations
Prevailing weather conditions, the average temperatures in summer and winter, as well as the general humidity of the area should all be on your mind when choosing lumber, stone and plants for your project. Even the soil or gravel you use should be selected based on what's going to best suit your local conditions. Further, if there are additional measures you might need to employ to protect those materials, keep that in mind too.
High rain totals in your area will demand better drainage of any flower beds, or lawn, to avoid flooding. Low rain totals will mean wood is at risk of cracking from the dry conditions. High average temperatures means avoiding plastics or artificial materials in as much of your design as possible, while low average temperatures means you'll need to protect against ice damage to porous stone, and this is just the beginning.
Regional Reasoning
The geology of your region should also be considered when planning your outdoor renovations, including the depth of your bedrock, the nature of the earth below your property, and the gradient of your property. For example, if your home rests on alluvial soil deposits, you'll have less reason to add topsoil prior to unrolling new sod, but thick clay or course gravel will need some supplemental nutrients. Alternately, gravelly or sandy soil will drain water more effectively than fine soil or heavy clay.
If you have plans for structures, such as a new porch, retaining walls or patio, you also need to know a little about the depth of your area's water table. This will help you determine how deep or shallow the frost line is and how to proceed with any stabilizing concrete footings for walls or structure. A high water table will mean a high frost line, and may subject materials to extreme forces during the winter, so it's critical that you choose concrete or structural supports that will endure.
Either your landscaping team or your supplier should be familiar with the region and its climate when you get started. Having that perspective will ensure that whatever plans you have they aren't spoiled by natural wear and tear that could have been predicted and planned for.