Eco-Friendly Hardscaping
Posted on: 10 May 2018
Hardscaping incorporate the elements of a property that are not flower beds and grass. It includes walkways, patios, driveways and sidewalks. The problem with traditional hardscaping is that it isn't very environmentally friendly. Concrete leads to water run-off and erosion and prevents rain from soaking into the ground where it belongs. The ground acts as a natural filter, removing pollutants from the rain. Luckily, there are a number of eco-friendly hardscaping options that allow homeowners to enjoy their property the way they want to without creating a problem for the environment.
Porous Concrete
Unlike traditional concrete, porous concrete is made with very little or no sand. Instead, it is made up of pea gravel that allows rain water to soak through it to the ground below. It is a little less smooth than traditional concrete, but is environmentally friendly while offering homeowners the garden pathway of their dreams.
Pavers with Open Grids
There are pavers on the market that are strong enough to hold up to a car if they're used in a driveway, but allow rainwater to filter through. These pavers are made with open grids in the center of them. Typically, the openings have a square or diamond shape, which offer a stylish hardscaping solution while doing good for the planet.
Pavers or Stones
A walkway or patio made with pavers or stones set slightly apart will allow rainwater to reach the ground. They're attractive and can add an extra design element to the property, especially if ground cover plants or moss is allows to grow through the separations on the pavers or stones. Pavers or stones can be made of clay, bluestone, granite or limestone. Some companies even offer plastic pavers made from 100% recycled material. These plastic pavers come in a variety of colors that can add a fun design element to a property.
Gravel
Gravel walkways and driveways also are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cement, but gravel does require some maintenance. Heavy rainstorms can push gravel around, and it isn't always the best choice for driveways. If the gravel driveway isn't sloped correctly, gravel can roll off into the street or move, creating potholes and an uneven driving surface. People who live in snowy environments also might have difficulty with gravel driveways. Snow plows and snow shovels can move the gravel around, and when the snow melts and spring returns, the driveway might need fresh gravel.
To learn more about eco-friendly hardscaping, contact services such as White Oak Land Management.
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