How to Choose the Right Landscaping Materials

Making the Right Choice for Your Project

Selecting landscaping materials can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This guide will help you navigate the choices and select materials that work for Ottawa's climate, your style preferences, and your budget.

Understanding Your Options

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Paver Types

Concrete Pavers

• Most popular and versatile option
  - Wide range of colors, shapes, and textures
  - Excellent durability
  - Mid-range pricing
  - Best for: Driveways, patios, walkways

  Natural Stone
  - Unique, one-of-a-kind appearance
  - Includes flagstone, granite, limestone
  - Higher cost but timeless beauty
  - Best for: Feature areas, accent pieces

  Brick Pavers
  - Classic, traditional look
  - Very durable
  - Limited color options (reds, browns)
  - Best for: Traditional home styles

  Permeable Pavers
  - Allow water to drain through
  - Environmentally friendly
  - Required in some new developments
  - Best for: Eco-conscious projects

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  Retaining Wall Materials

  Concrete Blocks
  - Engineered for structural integrity
  - Many styles available
  - Easy to install
  - Best for: Most residential walls

  Natural Stone
  - Beautiful, organic appearance
  - Requires skilled installation
  - Higher cost
  - Best for: Feature walls, gardens

  Timber
  - Warm, natural look
  - Less expensive initially
  - Shorter lifespan (10-15 years)
  - Best for: Garden beds, low walls

  Climate Considerations for Ottawa

  Our harsh winters demand materials that can handle:

  - Freeze-thaw cycles: Choose materials rated for Canadian climates
  - Salt exposure: Some materials resist de-icing salt better than others
  - Snow load: Structures must handle heavy snow
  - Temperature extremes: -30°C to +35°C throughout the year

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  Recommended Specifications

  - Pavers: Minimum 8,000 PSI compressive strength
  - Absorption rate: Less than 5% for freeze-thaw resistance
  - Slip resistance: Important for safety in wet/icy conditions

  Aesthetic Considerations

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  Matching Your Home

  Consider your home's:
  - Architectural style: Modern, traditional, colonial, etc.
  - Exterior colors: Complement brick, siding, or stone
  - Existing landscaping: Create cohesion with what's already there

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  Color Selection Tips

  - Warm tones (reds, browns, tans): Traditional, inviting
  - Cool tones (grays, blues): Modern, sophisticated
  - Mixed colors: Natural, organic appearance
  - Solid colors: Clean, contemporary look

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  Pattern Ideas

  - Herringbone: Strong, traditional, ideal for driveways
  - Running bond: Simple, classic, elongates spaces
  - Basket weave: Decorative, works well for patios
  - Random: Natural appearance, hides imperfections

  Budget Planning

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  Material Costs (Approximate)

  | Material | Cost per sq ft |
  |----------|---------------|
  | Basic concrete pavers | $3-5 |
  | Premium concrete pavers | $6-10 |
  | Natural flagstone | $15-30 |
  | Brick pavers | $8-15 |

  *Note: Installation costs typically equal or exceed material costs*

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  Where to Invest

  - High-traffic areas: Choose the most durable materials
  - Visible areas: Invest in premium materials for curb appeal
  - Background areas: Basic materials work fine

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  Money-Saving Tips

  - Use premium pavers as borders, basic pavers for infill
  - Choose local materials when possible
  - Plan project during off-season for potential discounts
  - Consider phased installation

  Maintenance Requirements

  Different materials have different needs:

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  Low Maintenance
  - Concrete pavers (occasional sealing optional)
  - Properly installed natural stone

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  Medium Maintenance
  - Brick (may need periodic sealing)
  - Permeable pavers (annual cleaning)

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  Higher Maintenance
  - Timber (staining, eventual replacement)
  - Some light-colored pavers (staining concerns)

  Making Your Decision

  Ask yourself:

  1. What's my budget for materials AND installation?
  2. How important is a unique look vs. practicality?
  3. Am I willing to do regular maintenance?
  4. What will look best with my home?
  5. How long do I plan to stay in this home?

  Get Professional Advice

  At Stoneway, we help clients navigate material choices every day. Our process includes:

  - Assessment of your specific conditions
  - Material samples to view at your home
  - Honest advice about pros and cons
  - Detailed quotes with material specifications

  Conclusion

  The right landscaping materials balance aesthetics, durability, and budget. Take your time with this decision—you'll be living with it for decades.

  Need help choosing materials? Contact Stoneway Landscaping for expert guidance and a free quote.