How Much Landscape Rock Do I Need
When you buy a home, you often want to spice it up a bit. The first area that most homeowners look to improve is the landscaping. Keeping the landscaping in tip-top shape and looking unique is key for many. Adding a feature like landscape rock vs mulch is often a popular question for homeowners. With that being said, once you have determined that you want landscape rock over mulch you will need to answer the next question. How much landscape rock do I need? Landscape rock needs vary based on the size of the project and depth of the rock coverage.
Let's take a look below at what's involved with landscape rock.
Why Do I Need Landscape Rock
Homeowners often elect for landscape rock over mulch. Depending on what type of landscape mulch you select can determine which insects you might be attracting to your yard. So, in order to avoid that altogether, homeowners opt for landscaping rock.
In addition to keeping the insects at bay, landscape rock has a nicer look to it and lasts longer than mulch does. Keep in mind that homeowners are often wanting to separate the curb appeal of their home from the curb appeal of their neighbors home. Landscape rock often comes into play with keeping each house more individualized.
What Is The Best Way To Calculate
Believe it or not, all of those times your teacher told you that you needed some math skills and you ignored the idea was real. Here is one of those times where having some quality math skills comes into play. Let's review the best way to get your measurements:
- Measure the area based on the length of the area in inches.
- Use your measuring tape and record the width of the area needing coverage in inches
- Take your measurements and divide by 12 in order to determine the feet. For example, if the length is 60 inches, it would be 5 feet. If the width were 50 inches, you would need 4.1667 feet covered.
- Now, look at the depth by dividing the inches needed in depth by 12. This allows you to convert it to feet. For example, 2 inches in depth, divided by 12, is 0.1667 feet needed.
- Next, multiply your length times your width to determine the depth needed. This will allow you to calculate the cubic feet of rock needed for the area. For example, a 5 by 4.1667 feet area at a depth of 0.1667 feet, would give you 3.4729 in cubic feet.
- Lastly, divide the cubic feet by 27 to determine your cubic yards. Since there are 27 cubic feet in one cubic yard, you will find that 3.4729 divided by 27 equals 0.1286 cubic yards.
How Much Does It Cost
Installing landscape rock can be rather inexpensive. It all depends upon the size of the project and the type of material that you have chosen. On average, you will pay around $2 per square foot. Most projects range from $600 to $800 in cost. Keep in mind that graveling a driveway can run you about $1,500.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you have a better understanding of how to calculate the amount of landscape rock you will need. Let's review some other outdoor topics that will benefit you as a homeowner. This would be a great time to look into your irrigation system. Making sure that everything is working properly and free from damage is important. You wouldn't want to install landscape rock around your plant beds and not have the proper irrigation.
Next, have your sewer lines checked for root invasion. You would be surprised at how fast roots from nearby trees can access your sewer lines. Since you are digging up your yard to install some landscape gravel, now is a great time to have your sewer lines inspected.
Finally, since you are on the topic of the landscaping and exterior of your home, this might be a great time to get a 4-point home inspection if you live in a coastal state. The 4-point home inspection focuses on 4 major areas of your home. You will know right away if your plumbing, electrical, roofing, and HVAC are in working condition.
When Do I Call A Professional
Anytime you are taking on a large project like landscape rock, it could be difficult for a homeowner. You really need to determine if your time is more valuable than the project. Most landscaping professionals have expertise in installing landscape rock and get accomplish the task in a faster manner than most homeowners.
Always hire a professional crew to complete your heavy-duty projects in a more timely manner. If you aren't sure who to call, reach out to your local home inspection team. They can refer you to reputable landscaping professional.
Conclusion
Anytime you are looking to enhance your home with projects like landscape rock, make sure to have the proper inspections done first. Always remember that the goal is to save money and protect your investment. Having a home inspection team come out to give you tips for enhancing your home is always a great idea.
Not only can they find any necessary repairs, but they can also refer you to the right people. In addition, most home inspectors work with a realtor or real estate agent. This allows them to stay connected with what the big project ideas are for various homeowners. Call on Gray Home Inspections for a complete home inspection in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding areas.