Want To Pave Over Your Yard? 4 Reasons Not To

At a time when many American homeowners and landlords are experiencing higher costs all the time, saving money on water usage is an attractive idea. Some may wonder if they should make the ultimate change to save water and pave their yard entirely or nearly entirely. While this may seem like a smart move, it can actually create more problems for you. How? Here are four of the most important reasons you still need softscape in your landscape.

1. Drainage Issues

Probably the biggest potential downside to installing too much paving is creating drainage problems. Hardscape—all the inorganic material in your yard—is usually either impermeable or largely impermeable to water. That means water will run off rather than soaking into the ground as it would on a lawn or garden bed.

Where will that water go? You may have a hard time controlling this, especially when it rains or snows a lot at once. If that water runs toward your home, it will damage the foundation. If it runs off toward your neighbor, you could be responsible for damage to their property. And if it runs into the street, you create problems for everyone. 

2. Home Value Reduction

Might you sell the property at some point in the future? If so, future buyers aren't likely to enjoy an all-paved approach to the yard. While some paved areas raise the home's value by making outdoor entertainment possible, too much will turn off buyers. Consult with a real estate agent to determine how homes in your market tend to do with varying levels of yard pavement. 

3. Local Zoning Rules

Before you make any decisions about paving large swaths of a yard, check with your local city or county zoning office. Some communities have rules about how much lawn or greenery is required—especially in the front yard. 

4. Ability to Redecorate

Finally, keep in mind that pouring a lot of concrete is relatively easy, but removing it and putting landscaping back in will be harder and more expensive. The more you pave, the less likely it will be that you can change your mind in the future and redecorate your yard. Softscape—plants, shrubs, lawns, and gardens—is flexible, mobile, and often easily replaced. 

Where to Start

Before you rip out any landscaping with the intent to pave it, take time to consult with an experienced custom landscaping service. They will work with you to achieve your water-saving goals, provide comfortable outdoor use areas, and still have a backyard everyone—including the city and future buyers—will like. Call today to make an appointment.