Metal Edging Installation Tips for a Modern Landscaping
Clean lines and well-defined borders can significantly enhance the aesthetics of an outdoor space, and metal edging panels are ideal for achieving this effect. Among these, corten steel edging is the preferred choice for modern landscaping thanks to its durability, versatility and classic aesthetic. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how metal edging can be installed, and highlight why corten steel is a great addition to modern landscapes.
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Why Choose Corten Steel Edging for Your Landscape?
The Perfect Blend Of Aesthetics And Durability
- Natural rust colour evolution: Corten steel edging gradually develops a rich, earthy brown rust layer that blends harmoniously with minimalist or natural elements in modern design.
- Long life: the protective layer formed by the oxidation process of metal garden edging is resistant to corrosion and weather damage and lasts much longer than aluminium or plastic edging panels, perfectly suited to the 'once and for all’ design concept of modern landscapes.
Versatility for Modern Layouts
- Design flexibility: metal landscape edging can be used to create straight lines (defining paths, terrace boundaries) or curved lines (around flowerbeds or water features), adapting it to a wide range of modern design styles.
- Low-maintenance properties: no need to paint or replace as often as wood or plastic, meeting the needs of busy homeowners.
Functional Benefits For Modern Spaces
- Grass and weed control: Corten steel garden edging creates a physical barrier that reduces lawn maintenance and keeps modern style beds neat and tidy.
Structural support: steel landscape edging stabilises the soil around hardscape areas (decks, driveways), preventing erosion and suiting a simple, understated modern design.
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Prepping to Install Metal Landscape Edging
Comparison of Metal Materials
- Corten steel: suitable for scenarios looking for durability, modern rust-coloured aesthetics and long term use (ideal for permanent modern landscapes).
- Aluminium: easier to bend into shape and suitable for small curves, but less durable for temporary or lightweight modern designs.
- Cost and value: Corten steel has a higher initial investment, but has a decades-long service life, making it more cost-effective for modern spaces that are looking for longevity.
Tools and Materials Required
- Tools: trowel, small clay trowel, mallet, tape measure, hand saw, pliers, sand (for drainage).
- Materials: Corten steel / aluminium edge boards, spray paint (to mark boundaries), fixing stakes, soil (for backfilling).
Metal Edging Installation Guide
Planning the Layout
Mark the boundaries with spray paint, following modern design principles (symmetry, white space or deliberate asymmetry). When measuring the length of the metal garden edging, pay special attention to the curved portion (corten is hard and requires precise planning of where to bend).
Excavating the Trench
Dig to a depth 0.5‘ shorter than the height of the edging board (e.g., a 4’ high metal edging board needs to be dug 3.5" deep). Use a half-moon trowel to ensure that the trench edges are neat, which is key to creating sharp lines in modern landscapes.
Prepare a Drainage Layer
Lay a 0.5-inch-thick layer of sand at the bottom of the trench to prevent water from pooling - this is critical to the long-term performance of corten garden edging.
Installing Metal Edging
Place metal edge plates into the trench, end to end. If cutting is required, handle with a hand saw (corten needs to be cut slowly to keep it flat). Fix with a mallet by tapping lightly to avoid bending and distortion.
Securing Edging Boards
Drive securing stakes every 12-18 inches (heavier corten requires thicker stakes) to ensure stability.
Finishing and Safety
Sand or fold up sharp corten edgings (especially for modern spaces with children). Backfill with soil, if necessary, and lightly compact to stabilise the edge slabs.
How Corten Steel Enhance Outdoor Living Spaces?
Pair With Hardscape
Paired with concrete patios, outdoor kitchens or paved paths, the rusty colour of corten steel lawn edging adds warmth by contrasting with clean, hard surfaces. Define the boundaries of a sitting area or fire pit to create a coherent, modern outdoor ‘room.’
Accent Greenery
Edging a minimalist flower bed or succulent area, the rusty layer of corten garden edging contrasts with greenery without overpowering it. Used to frame vertical gardens or green walls, echoing modern landscape trends.
Enhancing Sustainability
Outdoor metal edging can be combined with French drains or rain gardens to efficiently channel water while maintaining modern lines. 100% recyclable, in line with modern, eco-conscious design concepts.
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Answering Common Questions
How Long Does Weathering Steel Edging Last?
Weathering steel edging is designed to last for decades. Its weathering properties form a protective layer that prevents further corrosion, making it exceptionally durable in all weather conditions.
Is Weathering Steel Safe For Plants?
Yes, weathering steel is safe for plants. It develops a patina similar to rust, but this oxidation is not harmful to soil or plants, making it ideal for garden maintenance and landscaping services.
Can Weathering Steel Edging Be Used For Commercial Landscaping?
Of course you can. Many landscaping companies choose weathering steel for commercial landscaping projects because of its durability, modern look, and ease of maintenance.
In modern landscapes, rusted steel edging is more than a border, it’s a design centerpiece. Its durability, gradient patina, and ability to create clean lines make it ideal for defining a space and adding personality. Whether paired with hardscape or greenery, it can upgrade your outdoor area into a timeless and low-maintenance modern retreat.
Ready to transform your landscape? Choose AHL weathering steel edging to lay a solid and elegant foundation for a modern outdoor space. Contact us today!
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