If you have a driveway or path, the right type of edging can be important for separating and dividing this from the lawn, or flowerbeds, in your garden space. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal of your outdoor space, but it also brings a number of practical benefits too, including reducing maintenance, preventing weeds from spreading, and keeping plants and flowers safe. But what should you consider when choosing garden edging for driveways and paths? And how can you be sure to achieve the right results for your space?
What are the important considerations when choosing garden edging for driveways and paths?
There are a number of different considerations to take into account when choosing garden edging for driveways and paths. These include:
- The durability of the edging
- The flexibility of the edging
- The longevity of the edging
Durability and strength for the edging material
One of the first things to consider when it comes to choosing garden edging for a driveway or path is the durability and strength of the material. The movement of cars or footsteps can displace gravel, stones or mulch that you may be using as a substrate, and the garden edging material needs to withstand this movement.
In addition, it also needs to withstand the weather and climate in all seasons from occasional heavy snow, to frequent rain. Common edging options include concrete, stone metal and rubber. Of these, only rubber can offer the weather resistance required for all seasons. This is because it doesn’t warp or become brittle with temperature changes, making it a reliable choice that can endure various weather conditions year round. It’s also more forgiving in areas that are likely to be impacted or knocked by vehicles or equipment, as it doesn’t crack or chip as easily as stone or concrete.
Flexibility of the garden edging
Another important factor to consider is the flexibility of the garden edging for driveways and paths. It is common for paths or driveways to not be straight, and many instead are curved, or have irregular layouts and angles. This is something that needs to be taken into account with your garden edging. While rigid materials, like concrete or brick, may work well for straight lines, they are not suitable for curves without extensive cutting or shaping. This can increase both installation time and cost.
In contrast, rubber edging like FlexiBorder shines in this aspect because of its inherent flexibility. It can bend and contour to fit the layout of any driveway or pathway, making it ideal for custom or curved designs. This flexibility also allows for greater creativity when designing the edging layout, as rubber can form curves, circles, or other shapes that may be difficult with more rigid materials.
Longevity of the garden edging for driveways and paths
Finally, you should consider the longevity of the garden edging itself. Not only does your garden edging need to look good, but this also needs to hold up well over time, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacement. Traditional materials like stone or metal can last many years, but they require regular maintenance. Stone may need re-laying as it settles, and metal can corrode if not treated.
On the other hand, rubber edging like FlexiBorder, offers excellent longevity with minimal maintenance. Because it is resistant to cracking and does not rust, rubber edging can stay in good condition for many years with minimal upkeep. Additionally, FlexiBorder is UV-resistant, meaning it won’t fade or degrade quickly in the sun. This feature is especially beneficial in driveways and paths where edging is exposed to direct sunlight. With proper installation, rubber edging can serve as a long lasting boundary that retains its shape and colour without needing frequent attention.
If you’re looking for a high quality garden edging option that can define and line your driveways or paths, choose FlexiBorder. Why not take a look at the range of colours and designs available today?
