If you like to do things yourself, you have many choices for metal lawn edging. From precast or poured patterns, to individual panels, metal can also be used for borders, landscaping and private driveways. Metal edging is often referred to as curb appeal, since most people look at a home through its yard, and the appearance of a well-designed yard. There are several types of metal, so it is a good idea to learn more about each type before deciding which is right for you. The easiest way to start looking into the various options is by learning more about the characteristics of each type of metal.
There are many benefits to choosing a material such as steel for your landscaping and yard edging. One of the most noticeable benefits of metal lawn edging is the fact that it does not rust, melt, or dent. It is very durable, which is important if you have a driveway or similar area that could be exposed to different elements. Steel does not bend or break in the sun like some other materials, so you can enjoy a nice long drive without any damage. Another benefit of steel is the fact that it mows easily, which can be especially important in landscaping.
There are some downsides to choosing metal as a material for your yard edging or borders, however. Metal tends to retain an iron taste, especially when painted, so you may find that certain styles look out of place in your home. This is especially true if you choose a border with an antique look or a period design.
Metal fence or edging is an option for those who want something that will last even when it is constantly exposed to different elements. Metal can be a good choice for gardens because it is weather resistant, which means you will not need to apply a protective coating. Metal will not discolor or fade over time, which can be a concern for those who are working on an antique or traditional theme. However, you might have issues with metal lawn edging that are less severe, such as sharp edges or cracks.
Gravel edging is a very popular type of border, and it can provide you with a natural looking design that lasts for a longer period of time. You might use gravel because it is quite inexpensive and easy to install, or it might be because you want to create a natural appearance. If you choose to use gravel as a border material, then you will need to determine the best way to clean it. If you are not careful about how you wash it, you might end up leaving some of the natural grit behind, which will be much more noticeable than the grit that you originally started with.
Metal is another option for your yard landscaping because it is less likely to indent or damage the grass. It can also be easier to mow because it does not get as slippery when it is wet or snowing. Of course, you need to make sure that your grass is properly mowed before using any type of metal lawn edging. You do not want to cut your grass too short, because then it will be more susceptible to becoming damaged by turns and travel lanes. The only exception to this is if you have very heavy traffic on the road, in which case mowing your grass really should be scheduled every six to eight weeks.
If you have a nice thick layer of grass on the top edge of your lawn, then you do not really need any type of metal edging at all. This is because you should be able to easily mow your grass by turning the mower in the direction that you want the grass to go. However, if you have a lot of grass, then you might consider putting an edge at the top of your lawn mower turn and sawing it right through the middle. This will help to ensure that you do not rip through the middle of your grass, causing it to become damaged.
If you have a nice thick layer of wood or another type of material on top of your soil, then you might want to consider using some type of metal edging on the outside edges of your property. Wood edging tends to get damaged very easily. If you do not use a lot of wood mulch on your property, then you might want to consider using a wood edge instead of a metal one. Wood can be damaged by being hit by the lawn mower blades, but it will not get as damaged if you use something that is heavier. There are a variety of different options available when it comes to these types of landscaping products. Your landscaping company can help you find what is best for your yard and your specific landscaping needs.