THERE is nothing like a drought and water restrictions to give one\u2019s garden fatigue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But hardscaping with elements offering durability and aesthetic appeal as well as less maintenance can add new value to your property. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rather than watching lawns and flowerbeds wilt and die, many homeowners are starting to incorporate more \u201chardscaping\u201d to keep their yards looking good.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIn this they are following the example of many sectional title complexes, housing estates and retirement villages where the common property features a combination of hardscaping and drought-resistant indigenous plants,\u201d says Gerhard Kotz\u00e9, MD of the RealNet estate agency group. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It looks attractive, is low maintenance and does not require much watering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe trend is being bolstered by younger homeowners who work all week and would rather not spend their weekends mowing and weeding anything except perhaps an organic veggie patch, and by older owners who are looking to reduce their home maintenance tasks.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The elements of hardscaping include everything from gazebos, pergolas, paved patios and wooden decks to decorative walls and seating areas, braais, pubs and firepits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In general, home and stand sizes are also getting smaller, and prospective buyers definitely favour properties where the owners have used hardscaping to turn outdoor spaces into additional \u2018rooms\u2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cGiven the current buyer demand for easy-care homes with attractive entertainment spaces, we would also say that well-executed hardscaping projects are currently among the best home improvement options when it comes to return on investment,\u201d said Kotze.\u2013 ISSUED: REALNET <\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" THERE is nothing like a drought and water restrictions to give one\u2019s garden 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