Concrete Landscape Edging Blocks Transform Yards

Crisp, clean lines lend an instant aesthetic appeal to landscapes. Concrete edging blocks offer the perfect solution for creating defined borders in lawns and gardens. Their versatility allows them to edge straight or curved beds with ease. Property owners choose concrete landscape edging blocks for their durability and low maintenance needs compared to plastic edging. When properly installed, concrete edging blocks withstand shifting and prevent unwanted encroachment between planting beds and lawns.

Concrete landscape edging blocks offer numerous advantages for upgrading yard landscapes. Their simple installation transforms the yard by creating clear divisions between planting beds and lawns. The blocks provide strength and stability along garden borders and pathways. Concrete edges also help reduce time-consuming lawn trimming and edging tasks.

Key Benefits of Using Concrete Landscape Edging Blocks

Concrete edging blocks offer homeowners several benefits over old-fashioned plastic edging strips or trenching.

Aesthetic Appeal of Straight Edging for Gardens

The clean, straight or curved lines created by concrete edging blocks lend a polished, finished look to garden beds and lawns. The blocks provide crisp edges that plastic edging lacks over time. Concrete blocks maintain straight edges that keep planting beds looking neat and tidy.

Preventing Lawn and Garden Encroachment

A key advantage of concrete edging blocks is keeping grass and weeds from invading garden beds. The blocks form a sturdy border that prevents unwanted spreading or encroachment. This keeps planting beds and lawns neatly defined without constant maintenance.

Creating Clearly Defined Borders and Walkways

Concrete edging blocks excel at providing clear divisions between planting beds, lawns and pathways. The blocks delineate borders along driveways, patios, mulch beds and more. This creates visual appeal and organization within the landscape.

Minimal Maintenance Required Compared to Other Edging

Unlike plastic edging, concrete blocks rarely require replacement or repairs. Properly installed concrete edging blocks last for decades with minimal maintenance needed. Avoiding constant edging, trenching and repairs makes concrete blocks a time-saving solution.

Key Considerations When Installing Concrete Landscape Edging

Achieving the benefits of concrete edging blocks depends on proper installation. Here are key steps for a successful edging block project:

Measuring and Marking Layout

First, measure the area to be edged and mark the layout with spray paint or stakes. Account for curves and corners in your design. Purchase enough blocks to complete edging along the marked lines.

Excavating Trenches for Block Placement

Dig a trench at least 6 inches deep where blocks will be placed. Excavated soil gets reused later for backfilling. Make trenches straight for straight edging, or curved as needed.

Leveling and Tamping Gravel or Sand Base

Add an inch layer of gravel or sand to trenches and pack firmly. Level the base ensuring blocks will align properly when placed.

Positioning and Interlocking Blocks

Place blocks end-to-end in the trench, interlocking tabs if present. Place corner and curved blocks as needed. Top edges should sit 1-2 inches above ground level.

Backfilling Along Sides of Edging

Shovel excavated soil alongside edging blocks up to the top edge. Pack soil firmly to hold blocks in place. Excess soil is spread evenly along the lawn edge.

Concrete Landscaping Block Styles and Options

Concrete edging blocks come in various sizes, shapes, colors and textures. Consider these options when selecting blocks:

Standard Rectangular Edging Blocks

Simple rectangular blocks in lengths like 8, 10 or 12 inches work for straight edging. Optimal height is around 5-6 inches for stability.

Curved and Corner Blocks

Specialized blocks exist for curved edges and 90-degree corners. Using these maintains a uniform edge around curves.

Tapered Edge Blocks for Elevation Changes

Where elevation drops off, tapered blocks make a smooth transition along the edge. The tapered shape accomodates elevation changes.

Engraved or Stamped Design Blocks

For added visual interest, choose blocks engraved with patterns or stamped with designs like brick, slate or stone.

Choosing Color and Texture of Concrete Blocks

Select block color and texture to match or contrast with surroundings. Smooth blocks in neutral shades blend in, while bolder hues contrast. Exposed aggregate blocks coordinate with decorative concrete patios and walkways.

Comparing Concrete Edging to Plastic Landscape Edging

Plastic landscape edging is a lower-cost alternative, but lacks the longevity and durability of concrete edging blocks. Plastic edging is easier to install initially, but requires frequent repairs and replacement every few years as it deteriorates, shifts and gets damaged by mowers and string trimmers.

Concrete edging blocks are a more permanent solution, providing a cleaner, more defined edge for decades when properly installed. The blocks maintain their rigid shape and alignment better than flexible plastic edging. Concrete blocks are more resistant to damage from lawn care equipment as well.

Tips for Maintaining Concrete Landscape Edging

To extend the service life of concrete edging blocks, follow these care tips:

• Avoid hitting blocks with mowers or string trimmers
• Reapply polymeric sand annually between block joints
• Spot clean blocks with mild detergent and water
• Replace shifted or damaged blocks promptly to maintain edges
• Use shovel and wheelbarrow when planting near edges to avoid impact damage

Avoid using salt products near concrete blocks, as salt can damage and deteriorate concrete over time. Routinely inspect edges and refill soil that erodes from under blocks to prevent shifting and settling issues.

Design Inspiration for Concrete Landscape Edging

Concrete edging blocks offer great versatility in landscape designs. Here are some popular edging ideas and applications:

Defining Curved Beds and Tree Rings

Curved and circular concrete edging creates defined beds for trees, shrubs and ornamental plantings. The curves accentuate plantings beautifully.

Bordering Vegetable Gardens

Straight edging blocks contain garden soil and mulch in raised vegetable garden beds, keeping the surrounding lawn neat.

Lining Pathways and Walkways

Flanking pathways with concrete edging creates a crisp border between the path surface material and lawn or gardens.

Continuous edging around patios, pools, hot tubs and decks finishes off the hardscape area nicely.

Concrete edging blocks follow the landscape's natural curves, creating beds and borders in any yard. Their durability and easy maintenance make them a solution that transforms a yard's appearance for years to come. With proper planning and installation, concrete landscape edging blocks upgrade landscapes in style and functionality.