As with any project, there will be a wide range of materials you can consider for your hardscape, and some will have a cost range that is more budget-friendly than others. Typically, you’ll need to price your materials per square foot.
A great way to keep costs down is by using reclaimed materials. Bricks, stone, pavers and even wood that is beautifully weathered has the potential to transform an ordinary construction into an incredible focal point. These can be beautifully complemented by surrounding the hardscape with natural materials like mulch as part of a comprehensive landscaping project.
Another way to save money in your hardscape budget is by using locally sourced materials. If you plan to use natural stone, look around for nearby quarries. Your hardscape will reflect your unique geologic area, and as a bonus, you’ll save on delivery of your freighted materials.
Using wood from a local sawmill is another great cost-saving measure you can take when planning and installing your hardscape. You can often get high-quality lumber at very reasonable costs. Some mills will even sell one-offs, boards or beams with slight (sometimes barely noticeable) defects, at a fraction of the cost.
There are certainly ways to increase your budget when it comes to choosing materials, too. There are gorgeous options in high-end hardscape materials, from exotic stone and wood for building, to pre-fabricated fully-finished structures.
Another factor to consider is if you’ll be adding to softscaping elements to the area around the hardscape. Softscaping refers to the living elements of your landscape design, and can include like flower beds, perennials and native plants. Water features such as a water fountain can be another gorgeous element.
Regardless of the materials you choose, you’ll also need to ensure they’re appropriate options for your local climate.
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