When it comes to defining your landscape, edging is more than a finishing touch — it’s a structural, aesthetic, and long-term design decision. The right landscape edging material not only keeps your garden beds tidy and your lawn contained, but it also sets the tone for your entire outdoor space.
Among the most popular choices, concrete, brick, and steel each offer distinct benefits and drawbacks. So how do you choose the right one for your yard?
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know to make a smart, stylish, and durable choice.
Why Edging Material Matters in Landscape Design
Landscape edging serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. Functionally, it helps:
- Separate planting areas from turf
- Prevent gravel, mulch, or soil from spilling
- Guide mowers and trimmers
- Create clean, visual lines between elements
Aesthetically, edging influences your landscape’s overall look — formal or casual, rustic or modern. Choosing the right material ensures your borders stay intact and visually cohesive over time.
In addition to structure and appeal, edging can improve drainage, reduce erosion, and help extend the lifespan of other landscaping features like patios and paths.
Overview of the Three Most Popular Edging Materials
- Concrete Edging
Concrete edging is poured or precast and offers a durable, permanent solution. It can be customized with colors, stamps, textures, and curves to complement a wide range of landscaping styles. Concrete is versatile enough to suit modern, Mediterranean, or desert-style yards.
- Brick Edging
Brick lends a classic, charming look that suits traditional or cottage-style gardens. It’s often laid flat or stacked to form small retaining walls or decorative borders. Bricks are available in various colors and finishes, offering flexibility for cohesive design.
- Steel Edging
Steel (often weathered or powder-coated) provides a clean, minimalist edge that’s perfect for modern landscapes. Thin but strong, it bends easily for curves and lasts for years with minimal visibility. It’s often used in commercial spaces due to its unobtrusive appearance.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Concrete vs. Brick vs. Steel
Aesthetic Appeal
Concrete: Highly customizable with color, texture, and shape. Can mimic natural stone or create sleek modern lines.
Brick: Traditional, warm, and timeless. Provides a handcrafted look with natural variations in tone.
Steel: Best for clean, contemporary designs. Virtually disappears into the landscape, letting plants and paths stand out.
Durability and Longevity
Concrete: Extremely durable and resistant to weather, insects, and root invasion. Lifespan: 30+ years.
Brick: Fairly durable, but can shift or crack over time if not properly installed. Lifespan: 20–25 years.
Steel: Long-lasting but may rust if exposed to constant moisture. Weathered steel develops a protective patina. Lifespan: 15–25 years.
Maintenance Requirements
Concrete: Low maintenance. Occasional sealing and crack checks recommended.
Brick: May require resetting if soil shifts. Moss and dirt buildup can affect appearance.
Steel: Minimal upkeep. Check for rust or edge exposure annually.
Installation Process
Concrete: Requires trenching, formwork, and pouring. Best handled by professionals. Custom options may involve stamping or coloring during pour.
Brick: Labor-intensive, with individual placement and potential mortar work. Precision in spacing is key for symmetry.
Steel: Quickest to install. Sections are hammered into place with minimal digging. Corner joins and slopes may require some adjustment.
Cost Breakdown (Material + Labor Averages)
Concrete: $$–$$$ (higher initial investment, lower lifetime costs)
Brick: $$ (moderate material and labor costs)
Steel: $$ (slightly higher material cost but lower labor)
Note: Costs vary by region, complexity of design, and contractor availability.
Climate and Soil Suitability
Concrete: Excellent in hot, dry, or shifting soils. Resistant to expansion/contraction.
Brick: Performs well in mild climates. Poor drainage or frost heave can loosen bricks.
Steel: Works best in well-draining soils. Susceptible to corrosion in damp or coastal regions.
For Northern California installations, see our concrete landscape edging services.
Use Cases: Which Edging Material Fits Your Landscape?
| Landscape Style | Best Edging Material | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Modern/Minimalist | Steel | Clean lines, nearly invisible finish |
| Traditional Garden | Brick | Warm tones, historical charm |
| Drought-Tolerant Yard | Concrete | Durable in extreme heat and sun |
| Raised Beds or Mow Strips | Concrete | Prevents creep, low maintenance |
| DIY-Friendly Project | Brick or Steel | Easier installation without heavy tools |
| Eco-Conscious Design | Steel or Concrete | Recyclable and durable materials |
| Curved Garden Beds | Concrete or Steel | Easily shaped to fit organic bed designs |
Compare ideas at The Spruce: Landscape Edging Options.
Expert Recommendations for Northern California Yards
With a diverse climate that includes hot summers, occasional frost, and clay-heavy soils, Northern California presents unique landscaping challenges. Here’s how each material performs locally:
- Concrete: Ideal for permanent edging in sun-exposed areas and sloped terrain. Handles soil expansion well. Great for high-traffic zones and water-wise gardens.
- Brick: Good for well-drained beds in traditional gardens. Use a concrete base to reduce shifting. Avoid in erosion-prone areas.
- Steel: Great for subtle lines in shaded or protected areas. Use powder-coated or weathered steel to guard against rust. Not ideal for saltwater-adjacent landscapes.
Consider integrating multiple materials depending on function: for example, concrete for your front lawn mow strips, steel around a rock garden, and brick edging for your backyard flower beds.
Final Thoughts
The best landscape edging material depends on your aesthetic, budget, climate, and maintenance expectations. Concrete offers unmatched durability and customization, brick brings timeless charm, and steel gives you minimalism and flexibility.
Each has its place — and when selected thoughtfully, edging can elevate the look and longevity of your entire landscape.
No matter your choice, proper installation is key. Professional help ensures long-lasting results, especially for concrete and intricate brick designs. And don’t forget to match your edging to your home’s architecture and existing landscape features.
Ready to define your landscape with the right border? Contact Liberty Landscape Solutions for expert design and installation guidance tailored to your space.
