When determining whether to go with hardscaping or landscaping for your outdoor project, it all comes down to cost, value and design. Hardscaping involves more permanent materials, such as stone, concrete and brick, to create patios, walkways and retaining walls. It is more expensive upfront but more durable and requires less maintenance. Landscaping includes natural living elements such as plants and grass. Its start-up is typically cheaper but it has an ongoing cost. In North Texas, a blend of the two makes beauty and practicality possible.
What Are Hardscaping and Landscaping?
Hardscaping and landscape actually play two different roles in the design of an outdoor space. Being able to differentiate between the two can help you determine how to allocate your project budget.
Hardscaping includes:
- Non-living materials: stone, pavers, concrete
- Structures that are stable and weather-resistant
- Features like:
- Patios
- Walkways
- Retaining walls
- Fire pits
- Driveways
Landscaping includes:
- Living materials: grass, trees, flowers, shrubs
- Organic elements that add softness and seasonal change
- Features like:
- Lawn areas
- Flower beds
- Trees and shrubs
- Zones with mulch
When done right, these elements combine well to ensure even exposure, aesthetics and longevity.
How Much Do They Cost?
Prices can fluctuate based on project size and materials. Here’s a general comparison:
Hardscaping Costs
- Basic hardscaping: $3,000 to $15,000
- Per square foot: $5 to $25
- Retaining walls (North Dallas):
- Concrete blocks: $1,900–$6,700
- Poured concrete: $2,500–$8,100
- Brick: $2,100–$7,400
- Natural stone: $2,750–$9,400
- Boulder stone: $2,250–$7,500
Landscaping Costs
- Simple projects: $2,600 to $5,000
- Full installations: $8,000 to $16,000 or more
- Per square foot in Texas: $4 to $12 (up to $15 for complex jobs)
- Additional expenses:
- Sod: $0.50 to $2 per sq ft
- Irrigation: $1,500 to $5,000
- Tree removal: $100 to $1,000+
- Ongoing maintenance: $600 to $850 per month
Although landscaping can be cheaper when you first start, you can end up spending quite a bit in maintenance, especially if you pay for professional services..
How Much Value Do They Add?
Though both can add to your home value, they provide benefits in distinct ways.
Hardscaping ROI
- Can increase property value by up to 30%
- ROI usually ranges from 50% to 70%
- Most valuable features:
- Patios/decks: 10%–15%
- Walkways: 5%–10%
- Retaining walls: 5%–15%
Landscaping ROI
- Improves curb appeal and sells a property fast
- Adds eco-benefits such as shade, privacy and cooling
- Aids home sales by making the home appear better maintained
The best atmospheres and functionality for potential buyers come from a mixture of hardscaping and landscaping.
Designing for North Texas Soil, Climate & Style
Building for North Texas involves selecting materials and methods that can withstand heat, the clay soil and the unpredictable winters.
Top Hardscaping Materials:
- Natural stone: Durable and eye-catching
- Concrete blocks: Budget-friendly and strong
- Brick: Classic with weather resistance
- Boulders or gabion baskets: Perfect for sloped yards
Drainage Tips:
- Always drain water away from retaining walls
- Have weep holes using gravel backfill or drain pipes built in to lower the pressure from water
- Slope the grade away from the house
- Permeable pavers, for example, can help with pooling.
Curb Appeal Enhancers:
- Terraced walls to manage elevation
- Patio and walkway lighting recessed into your hardscape walls.
- Raised planters for visual interest
- Leverage symmetry and clear sight lines to draw the eye to your focal points
Why Choose Green Grounds?
At Green Grounds, we are all about mixing durable hardscaping with vivid landscaping design to create spaces that work and look stunning. Whether it’s a patio to entertain, or a retaining wall to tame your slope, or new landscape planting, we customized the project to your property, budget, and lifestyle.
We build for North Texas weather using durable materials that can take the heat, the freeze, and heavy rain. From structure to softness, we help you create a space that feels just right.
Let’s Design Your Ideal Outdoor Space
Whether you’re starting from scratch or just seeking to beautify an existing yard, Green Grounds is available for service. We will design one that meets your goals, maximizes your space and is suitable for the North Texas climate. Contact us to schedule your consultation.
