Introduction
Have you ever wondered which edging product is right for your upcoming landscaping project? Let’s dive in together and look at some materials commonly used to create those sharp edges that can make a well-landscaped yard look so polished.
There are multiple different types of materials that can be used as edging to really finish off a project right, however, not all materials are created equal. Let’s investigate the pros and cons of brick, wood, concrete, plastic and metal to help you make the best choice for your project. While these five materials aren’t the only options out there that can be used as landscape edging, they are the most readily available and commonly used around Edmonton.
Brick
Brick has been around for years and used all different ways in landscaping, whether it’s walkways, patios or even edging.
Pros
- Durable and can withstand all types of weather
- If removed carefully, can be reused and old pieces can be mixed in with new pieces
- Comes in a variety of colours
- Can be installed to create different styles
Cons
- Heavy to install
- Susceptible to frost heaving, which can result in uneven areas
- Over time, grass and weeds will grow in the spaces between the bricks
- Requires preparation of the ground prior to install
Wood
Wood is a very versatile product and readily available in home renovation stores. Wood creates a warm, natural atmosphere.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Readily available in home renovation stores in all shapes and sizes
- Can be installed in many different ways for numerous styles and looks
- Creates a warm, natural feeling in a yard
Cons
- Susceptible to weather and will deteriorate over time
- Can be difficult to remove after wooden pieces have been in place for years
- Often treated with chemicals for weather resistance which will leach out of the wood onto the surface or into the soil or water
- Susceptible to pests
Plastic
Plastic edging is probably the most commonly used product of these five, although it is also the product that starts to deteriorate the most quickly.
Pros
- Requires little preparation for install
- Often inexpensive
- Can be used to create a variety of shapes
- Comes in a variety of options, including a no-dig option
Cons
- Deteriorates quickly and often requires replacing within a few years
- Is damaged easily by lawn mowers and trimmers
- Can often be difficult to create a professional look if install is not completed correctly
- Often allows your lawn to grow under or over the edging into landscaped beds
- Colour is often limited to black
Metal
Metal has long been used in many different applications and has found its way into landscaping, being used to create a durable industrial look in yards.
Pros
- Durable and can without all types of weather and abuse
- Likely to last for decades
- Can be painted to create a more custom look
Cons
- Can damage lawn mower blades if they come into contact with the edging
- Susceptible to rusting – although often powder coated, the coating will flake off over time and the metal underneath with begin to rust
- Less readily available and requires specialized tools for home installation
- Best if installed by a professional with experience creating various shapes and designs
Concrete
Concrete is extremely durable and can withstand all types of weather, abuse from trimmers, and all types of backyard activities and sports.
Pros
- Customizable colours, textures and styles to choose from
- Very durable and long-lasting
- Can be used to create a wide variety of shapes and designs
- Keeps your lawn from growing into your landscaped beds
- Will maintain its shape and can withstand freeze-thaw cycles once set
- Under warranty for the first year after installation under proper care
Cons
- Requires preparation of the ground prior to install
- Heavy and requires a professional to install
Summary
While there are many options to choose from, carefully considering the pros and cons of each edging material can help you choose the best product for your landscape project. However, if you read this and still have questions, please send me a note and I will do my best to answer your question in my next blog post or video.
Thank you very much for reading! Enjoy the beautiful Edmonton summer and soak up that sun! Take care.
Alyce Straub
Landscape Technician
‘The grass is greener where you water it’
