How To Install Metal Edging

If you want to add some aesthetic appeal to your home, you might want to use metal edges. But do you know how to install metal edging in the first place? If you need some help, Landscape Improvements is the best team to call.

Here’s the thing, though. Even if you are about to hire professionals, it’s still good that you know how to do it. You’d never know when the skill would come in handy.

What Is Metal Edging?

Metal edging is used to keep your garden looking nicer by separating materials such as stone and gravel. It’s also used to have a clean line between your flower beds and grass. These metal edges are flexible and you can easily bend it according to your liking.

Metal edgings are usually long strips with overlapping connections. These strips are usually between three to five inches high. You can get metal edging from $2.50 – $6.50 per foot, depending on the overall quality of the material.

Best Ways on How To Install Metal Edging

Metal edge landscaping can be done in different ways. You can leave it “unfinished” for a more rustic vibe or paint it to ensure that it will last long. The good news is, metal edging is quite easy to do. In most cases, you just need to hammer it into the ground.

Mark and Measure the Borders 

First, you need to place a mark on your borders to properly measure how much metal edging you need. Use chalk or spray paint for this. By adding markers, you can also visualize what your garden will look like after installing the metal edges.

Dig a Trench 

Our experts recommend digging a trench so you can place your metal edging properly. This step is necessary when your soil is not as soft and it will make the metal edging more stable as well. The only special tool you need is a hand trowel and you are all set. Carefully place your metal edging with at least half of it below the ground.

On the other hand, if your soil is already soft, you can just use a wood block to pound the metal edging.

If you plan to have boxes, you can just use a hacksaw to cut it to your desired length. For curved edging, you can have your hose as a guide and place it on the path of your metal edging.

Place the Stakes 

When your metal edging comes with stakes, you need to strategically place these to ensure stability. Do not use a regular hammer because it can damage your edging. We recommend using a rubber mallet instead.

Backfill 

When your metal edgings are in place, it’s now time to refill both sides. Most people use gravel as the base of the backfill and then mulch on top of it to beautify the garden even further.

Benefits of Metal Edging

If you have second thoughts about metal edging, here are the advantages to further enlighten you.

• The material will not easily deteriorate
• Metal edging will stay in place regardless of the weather condition
• It builds clean lines between your paths, grass and flower beds, making your garden visually appealing
• Effective in maintaining your grass to avoid creeping into other areas of your yard

Different Types of Metal Edging

You have a few choices for metal edging. There is aluminum, steel and iron. Allow us to define each so you can make better choices.

Steel  

Steel is a good option if you want a strong material. Even if it is thin, it can hold its shape and won’t easily bend. This makes it perfect if you will place your metal edging near your driveway. You should also choose this material if you plan to use it for parking lots and parks.

The color will wear out over time but the rust will blend well to any type of garden. This might put you off since it corrodes. However, remember that it would take around 40 years to rust, so it shouldn’t be much of a problem.

Aluminum 

If the thought of rusting doesn’t sit well with you, what we encourage you to buy are heavy-grade aluminum metal edgings. This is also softer than steel, perfect if you want to add more character to your garden. Take note, though, that this is not as strong as steel but ideal for flat surfaces.

Iron 

Another type of metal edging is iron but is not highly favored. It’s not too flexible, heavier and it tends to rust faster. Yet, a few gardeners still enjoy using iron simply because they are after that rustic feel. Its quality to rust easier seems to be an advantage for them.

Know the Type of Soil

When shopping for the right kind of metal edging, you should also consider the type of soil you have. For example, if you have softer soil, aluminum could work best. But for rocky-type ones, better go for iron and steel.

Painting Your Metal Edging

You could paint your metal edging to whatever your heart desires. Just choose a color that goes well with your garden and you are all good. Now, we understand that this is a tedious task and you might not have the time for it. Worry no more.

At Landscape Improvements, we can install your metal edging and more. Just give us a call and we’ll do the heavy work for you.

Other Materials Used for Edging

There are other materials that you can use for edging. These are plastic, wood, stone and concrete. While most of these are relatively cheaper, you cannot compare it to metal’s durability. So if you want to save on costs in the long run, it’s still best to go for metal edging.

Let Landscape Improvements Help You Install Metal Edging

If you want to improve your garden and make it look more organized, our professionals can do it for you. We’ve been in the business for several years and have helped homeowners have jaw-dropping gardens.

Call us at 407-606-7326 to learn more about our services. Or you can email us directly at info@landscapeimprovementsfl.com.