DIY Network

Hardscape: Walkways, Fences and Patios

Hardscape refers to the hard, non-living elements of a landscape, such as concrete, brick or stone. Wood is also considered a hardscape material. Hardscaping includes flatwork, which consists of the surfaces outside of your house, such as driveways, porches, patios and walkways. Your builder or contractor will likely have hardscape materials in mind for your lot. Make sure you communicate the kind of style and features you'd like to see early in the homebuilding process.

Hardscapes have more than curb appeal. They play an important practical role in keeping your home safe and durable. Your builder should slope all flatwork slightly away from your home. Sloping the flatwork ensures that water hitting those surfaces doesn't form ponds or flow toward the foundation. Sloping the flatwork will keep your foundation from water damage, including cracks and moisture problems that could have an effect on your entire house.

Flatwork consists of the surfaces outside of your house, such as driveways, porches, patios and walkways.

Durable lumber should be used to construct the deck.

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Concrete and asphalt commonly are used for flatwork. When concrete is used, it's typically reinforced with embedded wire mesh. If the area of poured concrete is larger than 10x10, control joints will be added to help direct inevitable cracking in an aesthetically acceptable way.

If a deck is being installed on your home, it will typically be added after the flatwork is in place. Durable, pressure-treated lumber is used for deck construction. Pressure-treated lumber has been treated chemically to withstand being outdoors and being in contact with the soil. An alternate material that's gaining popularity for deck construction is a wood fiber and resin composite. It's 50 percent wood, 50 percent plastic -- and very durable.

While not as lush as grass or vibrant as flowering bushes, hardscape is still an important part of the landscape of your home. It not only adds key features like sidewalks and driveways, but helps to drain water away from the foundation, contributing to a durable home. Your builder will likely have a hardscape design in mind, so be sure to discuss the design early in the homebuilding process to understand what's being planned and to find out about any optional features you'll have a part in selecting.