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Maintaining Hardscapes

Posted on by Urban Eden Landscaping

Creating the ideal outdoor space in Camas, Washougal, or Vancouver, Washington, requires a lot more than just planting some shrubs or cutting the grass. Hardscapes, the non-living aspects of your landscape (as opposed to softscapes), play a crucial role in shaping the overall look of your outdoor living area. No matter if it’s a patio, pathway, driveway, or retaining wall, these hardscapes provide a one-of-a-kind aesthetic appeal that also provides both structure and definition. However, if longevity and visual charm are of importance to you, regular maintenance is key to your hardscape’s success. After reading this blog, you will understand the importance of maintaining hardscapes.

Inspect Regularly

Routine inspections are the first line of defense in hardscape maintenance. It’s as simple as walking around your property and looking at all of your hardscape surfaces. Take note of things such as cracks, uneven surfaces, and early signs of wear and tear. Being aware of these issues will allow you to quickly fix these small issues before they become major headaches.

Cleanliness

No matter what type of hardscape you own, it’s very important to keep it clean in regard to longevity and overall visual appeal. Regularly sweeping away debris such as leaves, sticks, and pine needles will prevent staining and deterioration. For stains that want to stick around, consider using cleaners for the specific hardscape you’re looking to clean.

Weed Control

The impact of weeds being on, under, or around your hardscapes can result in cracking and displacements. In order to refrain from these possible damages, regularly weed out any and all growth on all hardscapes. Using a weed barrier or natural weed control solutions will help prevent weed growth and support a neat and tidy appearance.

Seal & Protect

Applying a seal to your hardscapes will defend against natural elements. Weather it’s a wooden deck, concrete driveway, or a natural stone surface, applying a high quality sealant will act against negative effects like water penetration, UV damage, and fading of color or texture. Be sure to follow directions on the sealant of your choice in order to ensure the best results.

Repair Promptly

When it comes to hardscape maintenance, promptly repairing these surfaces is by far the most important task. Fixing uneven surfaces, cracks, or loose stones is essential for protection against further damage. Reach out to professionals, if necessary, especially for complex repairs or uncertainty.

Manage Water

Allowing your hardscapes to properly drain is crucial for the prevention of build up, flooding, and damages. Gutters and downspouts should direct water away from hardscapes, and adding things like permeable pavers will help with water absorption into the ground.

Maintaining hardscapes is an ongoing practice that never really ends. But, by incorporating all of these aspects into your routine, you can preserve the quality and functionality of your outdoor features. Remember, a little effort today can save you time, money, and potential headaches down the road. If you are concerned about the state of your hardscapes, or if you are in need of a seasonal pressure washing, contact us today for a FREE estimate.

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