Edge Your Asphalt Driveway To Protect It And Your Landscaping

When you add an asphalt driveway or another type of blacktop surface to your landscape, it needs one final thing to complete it. This final touch? The right edging. Why does your asphalt need edging? What kind of edging should you add? And how does it help your landscape too? Here's what every property owner needs to know. 

Why Add Asphalt Edging?

Unlike some other hardscape materials, asphalt paving does not have a neat, built-in edge. Concrete comes out of forms with a crisp vertical edge. However, asphalt is flattened out to a roughly 45-degree angle and appears to blend into the ground. 

This more uneven edging leaves the asphalt more fragile along its sides. Walking, driving, and using gardening equipment on it can cause breaks, chipping, and cracks. Edging protects the asphalt to make these less likely. It also keeps mowers and weed eaters away from the asphalt. 

However, edging also protects your lawn and other landscape. That broken asphalt could work its way into your grass and plants — resulting in an unkempt appearance, tripping hazards, and harmful asphalt in the soil and greenery. 

What Can You Edge It With?

So, how do you edge an asphalt driveway? Depending on your budget and yard goals, there are several methods. If your budget allows, one common material is known as Belgian bricks. These are roughly-cut concrete rectangles that are placed against the asphalt after it's been trimmed to provide an even surface. The overall look is elegant and formal. 

However, you may use any number of other materials. Consider things like bricks, railroad ties, faux and real stone, stamped concrete, or landscape borders. These more expensive edging materials add the right visuals to more budget-friendly asphalt to achieve certain yard goals. 

Greenery makes an inexpensive and attractive border too. Placing soil up against the asphalt protects it and allows you to plant a bright flower bed or add shrubs. Both of these may not physically protect the asphalt as much, but they serve as bold reminders not to drive or walk too close to the edge. 

Where Should You Start?

What kind of edging should you install? There are many choices, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. While some are more cost-conscious, others are more protective, and still, others add a welcome touch of flair. Start finding the right solution for your property by consulting with a qualified residential landscape service in your area today.  

For more info about home landscaping, contact a local company.