Understanding Your Options for Landscape Borders
As the owner of A Better Edge in Colorado, I’ve helped countless property owners make crucial decisions about their outdoor spaces. The right edging material can transform your landscape from ordinary to extraordinary while providing functional benefits beyond aesthetics.
Selecting the right edging material is more than a decorative choice—it’s a long-term investment in your property’s functionality and curb appeal. Whether you’re looking to define garden beds, create a clear boundary between your lawn and driveway, or establish a professional-looking border for your commercial space, the right edging material can make all the difference.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various options available for landscape edging, examining the advantages and disadvantages of each material to help you make an informed decision for your specific needs.
Concrete Edging: The Gold Standard
When considering the right edging material for your landscape project, concrete is often the premier choice for those seeking durability and design flexibility.
Pros of Concrete Edging
Concrete edging provides unmatched longevity compared to most other edging materials. With proper installation and maintenance, concrete edging can last 20-30 years, making it an excellent long-term investment for your property. As a professional concrete edging service, we can attest that many of our earliest installations continue to look pristine years later.
The right edging material should reflect your style, and concrete excels at this. It can be shaped, colored, and textured to complement any landscape design, from modern minimalist aesthetics to more traditional looks. Our concrete edging services include various design options that can be customized to match your specific vision.
Unlike other edging materials that may shift or deteriorate over time, concrete creates a solid, permanent barrier between different landscape elements. This makes it particularly effective at preventing grass from invading garden beds and containing mulch or decorative stone.
Cons of Concrete Edging
While concrete is the right edging material for many applications, it comes with higher upfront costs than some alternatives. Professional installation of concrete edging typically ranges from $15-25 per linear foot, depending on complexity and design elements.
Concrete edging requires specialized equipment and expertise for proper installation. It isn’t generally a DIY project, so you must hire professionals to ensure quality results.
Concrete can crack in regions with extreme freeze-thaw cycles if not correctly installed with expansion joints. However, our professional installation techniques mitigate this risk by incorporating appropriate reinforcement and installation methods specific to Colorado’s climate.
Metal Edging: Contemporary Elegance
Metal edging has become the right edging material for contemporary landscape designs. It offers a sleek, clean look that complements modern architecture.
Pros of Metal Edging
One of the most significant advantages of Metal as the right edging material is its sleek, unobtrusive profile. The thin edge practically disappears into the landscape while effectively separating different areas.
High-quality metal edging constructed from steel or aluminum can last 10-15 years, making it another durable option for your landscape.
Unlike some materials that require complex cutting and shaping for curves, quality metal edging can be relatively easily bent to create smooth, flowing lines in your landscape design.
Cons of Metal Edging
Over time, some metal edging materials may develop rust or corrosion, particularly in areas with high moisture. While aluminum and galvanized or powder-coated steel resist this issue, they typically come at a higher price point.
The sharp edges of some metal edging products can pose a safety hazard, especially in areas frequented by children or pets. Professional installation helps mitigate this risk by ensuring proper positioning and finishing.
Metal edging materials can cost $8-15 per linear foot, with installation adding another $6-12 per foot. While not as expensive as concrete, it’s still a significant investment for larger properties.
Stone and Brick Edging: Timeless Appeal
For those seeking a classic, natural look, stone or brick might be the right edging material choice. They offer timeless elegance that complements traditional landscape designs.
Pros of Stone and Brick Edging
Natural stone and brick edging create a rustic, organic appearance that blends beautifully with garden settings and traditional architecture styles. These materials have been used for centuries and never go out of style.
With proper installation, stone and brick edging can last 20+ years, rivaling concrete in longevity while providing a different aesthetic appeal.
Stone and brick edging typically allow some water to pass through joints, making them a good option for areas where you want to maintain natural drainage patterns.
Cons of Stone and Brick Edging
Installing stone or brick edging requires considerable skill to ensure stability and alignment. The process is labor-intensive, leading to installation costs ranging from $18-50 per linear foot, depending on the complexity and materials chosen.
Individual stones or bricks may shift over time without proper installation, especially in regions with significant freeze-thaw cycles like Colorado.
Both materials are relatively heavy, making them challenging to transport and work with during installation, which can increase labor costs.
“Choosing the right edging material is critical to the success of any landscape project. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about finding the solution that provides the proper balance of durability, maintenance requirements, and visual appeal for your specific situation.” – Chad, Owner of A Better Edge
Plastic and Composite Edging: Budget-Friendly Options
When considering economical options for the right edging material, Plastic and Rubber composite products offer accessible solutions for homeowners on a budget.
Pros of Plastic and Composite Edging
These materials are significantly less expensive than concrete, Metal, or stone, typically ranging from $1-5 per linear foot for materials, with simple installation that many homeowners can tackle themselves.
Most plastic and composite edging products are lightweight and easy to work with, making them suitable for DIY installation without specialized tools or equipment.
Many plastic edging products are designed to be flexible, allowing for smooth curves and creative landscape designs.
Cons of Plastic and Composite Edging
The most significant drawback of Plastic and composite as the right edging material is their limited lifespan. These materials typically last only 2-10 years before requiring replacement, making them less cost-effective over the long term.
Plastic edging is more prone to damage from lawn equipment, freezing temperatures, and UV exposure. In Colorado’s harsh climate, Plastic can become brittle over time and may crack or break.
Most plastic edging options have limited versatility and may not complement higher-end landscape designs or architectural styles.
Wood Edging: Natural Charm
Wood edging offers a natural aesthetic that appeals to many homeowners seeking an organic look for their landscape borders.
Pros of Wood Edging
Wood creates a warm, natural border that blends harmoniously with garden settings and rustic landscape designs. It’s particularly well-suited for cottage gardens and informal designs.
Compared to concrete and stone, wood edging is relatively affordable. Materials typically cost $2-8 per linear foot, plus installation if not handled as a DIY project.
Wood is easy to cut and shape, making it adaptable to various design needs and accessible for homeowners with basic carpentry skills.
Cons of Wood Edging
Even pressure-treated wood or naturally resistant varieties like cedar and redwood have a limited lifespan of approximately 7-15 years before rotting, particularly in Colorado’s climate with its seasonal moisture.
Wood requires regular maintenance, including periodic sealing or staining to prolong its life and prevent decay and insect damage.
Over time, Wood can warp, twist, or pull away from the ground, creating uneven borders that may require adjustment or replacement.
Selecting the Right Edging Material: Key Considerations
When choosing the right edging material for your specific project, several factors should influence your decision:
1. Climate and Local Conditions
In Colorado’s variable climate, which includes significant temperature fluctuations, freeze-thaw cycles, and occasional intense rainfall, durable materials like concrete and Metal typically perform best as the right edging material. Our expertise in local conditions ensures installations that withstand Colorado’s unique environmental challenges.
2. Landscape Style and Architecture
The right edging material should complement your existing landscape design and home architecture:
- Modern homes often pair well with concrete or metal edging for clean lines
- Traditional or rustic properties might benefit from stone, brick, or wood edging
- Contemporary designs frequently incorporate concrete edging with specialized finishes
3. Functional Requirements
Different areas of your landscape may require different edging solutions:
| Area | Recommended Edging Material | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Garden beds | Concrete, stone, or Metal | Strong barrier against grass invasion |
| Driveways | Concrete or brick | Durability against vehicle weight |
| Pathways | Concrete, stone, or brick | Aesthetic appeal and durability for foot traffic |
| Tree rings | Concrete or stone | Permanent solution that won’t damage roots |
| Play areas | Rubber edging or rounded concrete | Safety considerations |
4. Budget Considerations
While considering the right edging material, it’s essential to factor in both upfront costs and long-term value:
- Initial investment: Concrete ($15-25/ft installed), Metal ($14-27/ft installed), Stone/Brick ($18-50/ft installed), Plastic ($5-15/ft installed), Wood ($10-20/ft installed)
- Maintenance requirements: Concrete (minimal), Metal (occasional), Stone/Brick (periodic), Plastic (frequent), Wood (regular)
- Expected lifespan: Concrete (20-30+ years), Metal (10-15+ years), Stone/Brick (15-25+ years), Plastic (2-10 years), Wood (7-15 years)
5. Installation Complexity
Some edging materials require specialized equipment and professional installation to ensure proper performance:
- Professional installation recommended: Concrete edging, complex stone/brick designs
- DIY possible with appropriate tools: Basic metal edging, simple stone/brick layouts, Wood, Plastic
- Easily DIY-friendly: Plastic and composite edging, pre-formed Wood
Commercial Applications: Selecting the Right Edging Material
The right edging material choice for commercial properties often prioritizes durability, low maintenance, and professional appearance. At A Better Edge, we specialize in commercial applications that enhance property value while reducing ongoing maintenance costs.
Commercial Concrete Edging
Concrete edging provides commercial properties with a clean, consistent border that maintains its appearance for decades with minimal maintenance. It is the right solution for retail centers, office complexes, and municipal spaces to withstand heavy foot traffic and commercial lawn maintenance equipment.
Our commercial concrete edging services include custom colors and finishes that can complement corporate branding or match existing architectural elements. The precision of our installation ensures ADA compliance for pathways and clear delineation of pedestrian areas.
Industrial Applications
We offer reinforced concrete edging solutions to withstand vehicle traffic, extreme weather conditions, and harsh environments for industrial sites requiring the right edging material with maximum durability. These specialized applications provide clear boundaries for safety zones, parking areas, and landscaped sections while maintaining a professional appearance.
Municipal and Public Spaces
Concrete edging benefits public parks, schools, and municipal facilities by providing clear boundaries, enhancing safety, and reducing maintenance requirements. As the right edging material for high-traffic public spaces, our concrete edging solutions offer exceptional value through their longevity and minimal upkeep needs.
Specialty Features: Enhancing Your Landscape
Beyond basic edging, we offer specialty concrete features that complement your landscape design and extend the functionality of your outdoor spaces.
Concrete Flagstone
Our concrete flagstone offers traditional stone’s organic, natural appearance with enhanced durability and consistent sizing. This versatile solution provides the right edging material for creating:
- Elegant garden pathways
- Patio borders and transitions
- Stepping stone sequences through grassy areas
- Decorative accents within larger hardscapes
Concrete Pathways
Custom concrete pathways provide functional connections between different areas of your landscape while serving as the right edging material for adjacent garden beds or lawn areas. Our pathway solutions include:
- Textured finishes for enhanced traction and safety
- Integral coloring to complement your landscape palette
- Curved or straight designs to direct traffic flow
- Varying widths to accommodate different usage patterns
Concrete Walls
Concrete walls serve as structural elements when your landscape includes elevation changes and the right edging material to define different zones. Our concrete wall solutions range from small retaining edges to substantial structural elements, all designed to complement your overall landscape design while providing necessary function.
Making the Right Choice for Your Property
Selecting the right edging material ultimately depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. At A Better Edge, we take pride in helping our clients navigate these decisions with expert advice based on years of experience in Colorado’s unique conditions.
We recommend consulting with our team to assess your site conditions, design objectives, and maintenance capabilities. By considering these factors alongside the pros and cons of different materials, we can help you select the right edging material to provide lasting satisfaction and value for your property.
Our commitment extends beyond simply installing your chosen edging. We provide comprehensive support throughout decision-making, professional installation using industry-best practices, and ongoing advice for maintaining your landscape investments.
Conclusion: Investing in Quality Edging
The right edging material transforms ordinary landscapes into extraordinary outdoor spaces, defining boundaries, enhancing visual appeal, and reducing maintenance. Whether you choose concrete for its durability and design flexibility, Metal for its contemporary elegance, or another material that meets your specific needs, quality installation is the key to long-term satisfaction.
At A Better Edge, we’re dedicated to helping you make informed decisions about the right edging material for your unique property. Our professional installation services ensure that your investment provides maximum value and enjoyment for years.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how the right edging material can elevate your landscape to new heights of beauty and functionality. Our team of experts is ready to bring your vision to life with craftsmanship and attention to detail that sets the standard for landscape edging in Colorado.
More info can be found on the Colorado General Assembly’s Fire Hardened Building Materials in Real Property page.
