Landscape Edging 90 Degree Angle

mnccertified

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Dec 18, 2024

32 visitor like this post

Share

Achieving the Perfect 90-Degree Angle with Your Landscape Edging

Creating crisp, clean lines in your landscaping is crucial for achieving a polished and professional look. One of the most challenging, yet rewarding, aspects of this is achieving that perfect 90-degree angle with your landscape edging. This guide will walk you through the process, covering everything from planning and materials to installation techniques and troubleshooting common problems.

Planning for a Precise 90-Degree Angle

Before you even think about digging, careful planning is key to ensuring a successful installation. This includes:

1. Defining Your Boundaries:

• Accurate Measurements: Use a measuring tape to accurately determine the lengths of the sides forming your 90-degree angle. Precise measurements prevent awkward gaps or overlaps later on.
• Marking the Area: Clearly mark your desired edging path using landscape marking paint or string lines. Pay extra attention to the corner where the 90-degree angle needs to be perfectly formed. Consider using a builder's square to ensure accuracy.

2. Material Selection:

Choosing the right edging material is vital. Popular options include:

• Metal Edging: Offers durability and a clean, modern aesthetic. Steel edging, in particular, is easy to cut and shape to achieve the exact 90-degree angle.
• Plastic Edging: A more budget-friendly option, but it may not be as durable or long-lasting as metal. However, flexible plastic edging can be easier to work with for curves and angles.
• Brick or Stone Edging: Provides a natural and visually appealing look, but requires more time and skill for installation, especially achieving precise angles.
• Concrete Edging: Highly durable but demands more preparation and expertise. Achieving a perfect 90-degree angle with concrete requires precise forming.

3. Tool Selection:

Gathering the right tools beforehand saves time and frustration. You will need:

• Measuring Tape: For precise measurements and ensuring accuracy.
• Shovel or Spade: For digging the trench.
• Post Hole Digger (Optional): Useful for creating deeper trenches or for particularly hard ground.
• Level: To ensure your edging is perfectly level and that the 90-degree angle is consistent.
• Builder's Square: Essential for ensuring a true 90-degree angle.
• Cutting Tools: Appropriate for your chosen edging material (e.g., metal shears for metal edging, masonry saw for brick or stone).

Installing Your Landscape Edging: Achieving that Perfect 90-Degree Angle

Once you've planned and gathered your materials and tools, it's time for installation:

1. Trench Preparation:

Dig a consistent trench along your marked lines. The depth of the trench depends on your chosen edging material and local soil conditions. Ensure the trench is wide enough to accommodate the edging and allow for proper stability.

2. Creating the 90-Degree Corner:

This is the most crucial step. Using your builder's square, ensure the two sections of your edging meet at a precise 90-degree angle. Make adjustments as needed before embedding the edging. This requires careful placement and potentially some minor trimming or shaping of your edging materials.

3. Securing the Edging:

Once the 90-degree angle is perfect, securely embed the edging into the trench. Use appropriate fasteners or embed the edging firmly into the soil. Backfill the trench with soil or gravel, compacting it firmly to ensure stability and prevent shifting.

4. Final Touches:

After installation, check your work one last time. Ensure the 90-degree angle remains precise and that the edging is level. You may need to make minor adjustments to ensure a professional finish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Uneven Angles: Carefully use a builder's square at each stage. Re-check the angle throughout the installation.
• Sagging Edging: Ensure your trench is deep enough, and compact the backfill thoroughly.
• Difficult Soil: Loosen the soil before digging to make the trenching process easier.

Maintaining Your Landscape Edging

Regular maintenance will help prolong the life of your landscape edging and maintain its pristine appearance. This includes occasional cleaning and ensuring the edging remains securely in place.

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to achieving those picture-perfect 90-degree angles in your landscape edging, creating a beautiful and well-defined outdoor space. Remember, patience and precision are key to success!