Custom Design Services

The Essential Guide to Custom Borders

As the owner of A Better Edge, I’ve seen firsthand how proper landscape edging transforms outdoor spaces across Colorado with our Custom Design Services. From the foothills of Denver County to the plains of Arapahoe County, the right edging solution enhances aesthetic appeal. It serves critical functional purposes that protect your investment for years to come.

Why Custom Landscape Edging Matters in Colorado

Colorado’s unique climate presents specific challenges for landscape design. With dramatic temperature swings, intense UV exposure, drought and heavy precipitation cycles, proper edging isn’t just decorative—it’s essential infrastructure.

Several key functions make quality landscape edging indispensable:

1. Creates clean, defined borders between different landscape elements
2. Prevents material migration (mulch, gravel, soil)
3. Blocks grass and weed intrusion
4. Manages water runoff and erosion
5. Provides structural support for raised beds and garden features

In Denver’s urban environments, clean landscape lines create visual order amid the density. Meanwhile, in suburban Arapahoe County, proper edging helps maintain expansive properties with less maintenance burden.

Material Options for Colorado Conditions

Colorado’s challenging climate requires edging materials that can withstand extreme conditions. Let’s explore the options best suited for our region:

Concrete Edging

Concrete remains the premier choice for many Colorado homeowners seeking permanence and design flexibility. Our extruded concrete curbing creates seamless borders with numerous advantages:

• Durability: Withstands Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles
• Versatility: Available in 30+ styles and 23 integral colors
• Customization: Can be stamped, colored, or molded to any design
• Longevity: Properly installed concrete edging lasts 15-20+ years
• Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep beyond occasional sealing

In Denver neighborhoods like Cherry Creek and Washington Park, stamped concrete edging complements historic architecture while providing modern functionality.

Metal Edging Systems

For contemporary properties and commercial applications, steel edging offers sleek lines and exceptional strength:

• Strength: Withstands heavy traffic and equipment
• Precision: Creates razor-sharp landscape lines
• Weather Resistance: Available in galvanized, powder-coated, or weathering steel (Cor-Ten)
• Flexibility: Can form gentle curves while maintaining structural integrity
• Applications: Ideal for pathways, garden beds, and hardscape transitions

Metal edging has become particularly popular in Arapahoe County’s new developments, where contemporary architectural styles benefit from clean, minimalist landscape lines.

Stone and Brick

Natural stone and brick edging provide timeless elegance and complement Colorado’s landscape:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Provides rustic or formal character
• Harmony: Blends with Colorado’s natural environment
• Versatility: Available in various heights, colors, and styles
• Durability: Withstands harsh climate conditions
• Value: Adds significant property value

Rubber and Composite Edging

For budget-conscious projects or DIY applications, rubber and composite materials offer practical solutions:

• Affordability: Lower initial investment
• Ease of Installation: Lightweight and manageable for homeowners
• Flexibility: Forms curves easily
• Performance: Resists rot and degradation
• Limitations: Shorter lifespan than premium alternatives

Professional Landscape Services: Installation Techniques

The success of any edging system depends mainly on proper installation. At A Better Edge, our landscape services include specialized techniques developed specifically for Colorado’s unique conditions.

Concrete Curbing Installation

Our process for installing seamless concrete curbing follows these critical steps:

1. Site Preparation: We carefully mark the desired edging path, ensuring proper drainage considerations and aesthetic alignment.
2. Excavation: Creating a stable foundation requires removing 3-4 inches of soil along the marked path.
3. Base Preparation: We install and compact a crushed gravel base to provide drainage and prevent settling.
4. Mixing: Our proprietary concrete mix includes fiber reinforcement and additives explicitly designed for Colorado’s climate.
5. Extrusion: Using specialized machinery, we extrude the concrete continuously, eliminating weak points.
6. Finishing: The fresh concrete is shaped, stamped, and colored according to your design specifications.
7. Expansion Cuts: Strategic expansion joints are placed to prevent cracking during freeze-thaw cycles.
8. Curing and Sealing: We apply professional-grade sealants to protect your investment from UV damage and moisture penetration.

Metal Edging Expert Installation

For metal edging systems, our professional landscape services include:

1. Precision Cutting: Custom-cut lengths to accommodate any design.
2. Proper Anchoring: We use 12-16 inch stakes at optimal intervals to ensure stability.
3. Connection Systems: Specialized connectors create seamless transitions between sections.
4. Curve Formation: Expert techniques for creating smooth curves without compromising strength.
5. Elevation Management: Careful attention to consistent height and ground penetration.

“The difference between DIY edging and professional installation isn’t just in appearance—it’s in longevity. Professional installation typically extends the life of landscape edging by 5-10 years and prevents costly failures.” — Chad, Owner of A Better Edge

Custom Design Options for Colorado Properties

Colorado’s diverse architectural styles require versatile design options. Our landscape services include tailored solutions for every aesthetic preference.

Concrete Stamping Patterns

Our concrete edging is available in numerous patterns that complement Colorado’s architectural diversity:

Pattern Style	Best For	Durability Rating
Classic Brick	Historical Denver neighborhoods	9/10
Natural Stone	Mountain-inspired landscapes	10/10
Modern Linear	Contemporary suburban homes	8/10
Cobblestone	Traditional garden designs	9/10
Southwest	Arapahoe County ranch properties	9/10

Color Integration

Beyond shape, color plays a crucial role in landscape design integration:

1. Earth Tones: Blends naturally with Colorado’s landscape
2. Architectural Match: Colors that complement existing hardscapes
3. Contrast Elements: Strategic color differences to highlight landscape features
4. Pattern Enhancement: Color variations that accentuate stamped patterns
5. Seasonal Considerations: Colors that maintain appeal year-round in Colorado’s changing seasons

Height and Profile Variations

Different landscape applications require specific edging profiles:

• Flush Edging: Creates clean transitions without trip hazards
• Low-Profile (1-2″): Gentle material separation with minimal visual impact
• Medium-Height (3-4″): Standard for garden beds and pathway definition
• Tall Borders (5″+): Creates distinct elevation changes and more substantial visual impact

Climate-Specific Considerations for Colorado

Colorado’s climate presents unique challenges for landscape materials. Our landscape services address these region-specific concerns with specialized solutions.

Freeze-Thaw Resistance

With over 100 freeze-thaw cycles annually in many parts of Colorado, material expansion and contraction can quickly destroy inferior edging. Our solutions include:

• Fiber-reinforced concrete mixes achieving 4,500+ psi compressive strength
• Strategic expansion joints at optimal intervals
• Proper drainage design to prevent water accumulation
• Deep anchoring systems that resist frost heave

Drought and Irrigation Management

Colorado’s semi-arid climate requires thoughtful water management:

• Edging designed to direct rainfall to vegetation
• Integration with efficient irrigation systems
• Material compatibility with xeriscape designs
• Solutions that prevent erosion during intense rainfall events

UV Protection

Denver receives approximately 300 sunny days yearly, with intense UV radiation that deteriorates many materials. Our solutions include:

• UV-stabilized materials for all edging types
• Professional-grade sealants for concrete edging
• Powder-coated finishes for metal systems that resist fading
• Regular maintenance programs to preserve appearance and performance

Application-Specific Edging Solutions

Different landscape features require specialized edging approaches. Our comprehensive landscape services address each unique need.

Garden Bed Edging

Effective garden edging requires specific considerations:

• Depth: Extends 4-6″ below grade to block root intrusion
• Height: Typically 2-6″ above grade depending on visual preference
• Material: Usually concrete or steel for longevity
• Design: Often curved to create flowing garden designs

Pathway and Walkway Borders

Path edging serves both functional and aesthetic purposes:

• Safety: Creates visual cues and prevents trip hazards
• Containment: Keeps path materials from spreading into lawns
• Drainage: Often includes design elements to manage runoff
• Illumination: Can incorporate lighting elements for safety and ambiance

Driveway Edging Solutions

Driveways require exceptionally durable edging solutions:

• Strength: Must withstand vehicle traffic and weight
• Snow Removal: Designed to resist damage from plows and shovels
• Visibility: Often includes reflective elements for safety
• Integration: Complements both the driveway surface and surrounding landscape

Tree Ring Installations

Protecting trees while enhancing landscape design requires specialized approaches:

• Root Protection: Designed to prevent mower damage without harming root systems
• Growth Accommodation: Allows for trunk expansion over time
• Mulch Containment: Keeps organic materials in place around trees
• Aesthetic Enhancement: Creates clean visual separation between turf and trees

Maintenance and Longevity

Even the best landscape edging requires proper maintenance to maximize its lifespan.

Concrete Edging Maintenance

To preserve concrete edging in Colorado’s challenging climate:

1. Regular Cleaning: Remove debris and prevent organic material buildup
2. Periodic Sealing: Reapply quality sealants every 2-3 years
3. Crack Monitoring: Address minor cracks before they expand
4. Color Refreshing: Apply color enhancers as needed
5. Winter Protection: Use proper snow removal techniques to prevent damage

Metal Edging Care

Metal systems require different maintenance approaches:

1. Rust Inspection: Check for and treat any corrosion points
2. Anchoring Verification: Ensure stakes remain securely positioned
3. Alignment Checks: Verify edging remains properly positioned
4. Connection Inspection: Confirm joints stay tight and secure
5. Paint Touch-Up: Address any scratches in painted finishes

Professional vs. DIY Installation

While DIY landscape edging may seem appealing, professional installation offers significant advantages, particularly in Colorado’s challenging environment.

The Professional Advantage

Our professional landscape services provide benefits impossible to achieve with DIY approaches:

• Specialized Equipment: Access to commercial-grade machinery for precision results
• Material Knowledge: Expertise in selecting the right materials for specific applications
• Technical Skill: Proper techniques for installation that maximize longevity
• Design Assistance: Professional guidance on aesthetic and functional considerations
• Warranty Protection: Coverage against defects and installation problems

DIY Limitations

Common challenges with DIY landscape edging include:

• Inconsistent Results: Difficulty maintaining uniform height and appearance
• Inadequate Tools: Limited access to specialized equipment
• Material Restrictions: Fewer options available through retail channels
• Longevity Concerns: Typically shorter lifespan due to installation variables
• Limited Expertise: Lack of knowledge about Colorado-specific considerations

Geographic Considerations Across Colorado

Different regions of Colorado present unique landscape challenges that affect edging decisions.

Denver Metropolitan Area

Urban Denver properties benefit from edging solutions that:

• Create clean lines in smaller spaces
• Integrate with architectural elements
• Maximize usable space in urban lots
• Withstand pollution and urban heat effects
• Complement multi-use outdoor spaces

Arapahoe County Landscapes

The diverse terrain of Arapahoe County requires edging that:

• Works with larger lot sizes and grander landscape designs
• Accommodates varying soil types from clay to sandy
• Resists erosion in areas with significant topography
• Creates visual organization for expansive properties
• Integrates with both natural and formal landscape styles

Mountain Communities

Colorado’s mountain regions need specialized approaches:

• Extreme freeze-thaw resistance
• Wildlife-compatible designs
• Snow management integration
• Erosion control on steep terrain
• Natural aesthetic integration

Cost Considerations and Value

While quality landscape edging represents a significant investment, its long-term value is undeniable.

Pricing Structures

Typical pricing for professional landscape edging in Colorado falls within these ranges:

Edging Type	Price Range (per linear foot)	Expected Lifespan
Concrete Curbing	$12-$18	15-20+ years
Steel Edging	$14-$24	15-25+ years
Stone/Brick	$18-$35	20-30+ years
Plastic/Composite	$5-$12	5-10 years

Value Analysis

When evaluating landscape edging options, consider these value factors:

1. Initial Investment: Higher-quality materials typically cost more upfront
2. Maintenance Requirements: Lower-quality options often require more ongoing maintenance
3. Replacement Frequency: Budget options may need replacement 2-3 times during the lifespan of premium alternatives
4. Property Value Impact: Quality edging can increase property values by enhancing curb appeal
5. Functional Benefits: Reduced maintenance costs for other landscape elements

Choosing the Right Professional Landscape Services

Selecting the right contractor for your landscape edging project is crucial. Look for these qualities:

Expertise Indicators

1. Specialization: Providers focused specifically on edging rather than general landscaping
2. Experience: Years of installation experience in Colorado’s specific conditions
3. Portfolio: Extensive examples of previous work in various styles
4. Reviews: Strong customer feedback and testimonials
5. Warranties: Comprehensive coverage against defects and installation issues

Project Approach

Quality contractors will demonstrate professionalism through:

1. Detailed Consultations: Taking time to understand your specific needs
2. Written Proposals: Comprehensive documentation of project specifications
3. Material Education: Explaining options and making appropriate recommendations
4. Timeline Commitments: Clear schedules for project completion
5. Follow-Up Services: Ongoing support after installation

Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Quality Edging

In Colorado’s challenging climate, quality landscape edging is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for maintaining beautiful, functional outdoor spaces. From Denver’s urban gardens to Arapahoe County’s expansive properties, proper edging creates definition, prevents material migration, and enhances overall landscape design.

Investing in professional landscape services for your edging project ensures long-term performance, reduced maintenance requirements, and enhanced property value. The initial investment quickly pays dividends through improved aesthetics, reduced upkeep, and extended lifespan of your entire landscape.

At A Better Edge, we’re committed to delivering custom edging solutions tailored to Colorado’s unique environment. Our expertise in material selection, design integration, and professional installation ensures results that will enhance your property for years.

Whether planning a new landscape installation or upgrading existing features, I invite you to experience the difference that professional landscape edging can make for your Colorado property.

More info can be found on the Colorado Landscape Code And Policy Manual.