As residents of Gilbert know, Arizona’s summers are not to be taken lightly. The scorching heat can make it difficult to enjoy your outdoor space, particularly if you’ve used hardscaping materials that retain heat. However, with the right choice of materials, you can create a hardscape that remains remarkably cool, even in the height of summer. Let’s explore some hardscaping materials that can help keep your outdoor living areas more comfortable in Gilbert’s climate.
Understanding Heat Retention in Hardscaping Materials
Before we delve into the types of materials that stay cool, it’s essential to understand why certain hardscaping materials retain heat. The color, density, and material composition all play a part in how much heat a material absorbs. Darker materials absorb more sunlight and tend to get hotter than lighter ones. Similarly, materials with higher densities, such as concrete and asphalt, can store a lot of heat and stay hot for longer periods.
Fortunately, there are alternatives that absorb less heat, making them more suitable for hot climates like ours in Gilbert. These materials can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space without turning it into a hotplate in the summer.
Natural Stone: A Cool and Classic Choice
Natural stone is an excellent choice for hardscaping in hot climates. It’s a durable material that stands up well to heat and sunlight, and it doesn’t retain as much heat as other materials. Some types of stone, such as limestone and sandstone, stay particularly cool because they reflect more sunlight than they absorb. Moreover, the natural variation in color and texture of these stones can add a unique touch to your outdoor space.
Natural stone can be used in various hardscaping applications, including patios, walkways, and outdoor kitchens. Keep in mind that while natural stone is a more costly option, its durability and low heat retention make it a worthwhile investment for Gilbert homeowners.
Composite Decking: A Modern Alternative
Composite decking is a modern hardscaping material that combines the best features of wood and plastic. This material is known for its durability and low maintenance needs. What’s more, it’s designed to stay cool to the touch, even in hot weather.
Composite decking materials are made to resist heat absorption, making them an ideal choice for decks and patios in Gilbert. They come in a variety of colors, so you can choose a lighter shade to further reduce heat retention. Composite decking also mimics the look of natural wood, offering a warm and inviting aesthetic without the risk of overheating.
Gravel and Pebbles: Affordable and Versatile
Gravel and pebbles are another great choice for hardscaping in Gilbert. These materials are affordable and versatile, making them ideal for various applications, such as pathways, driveways, or as a decorative element in xeriscaping. Even in the peak of summer, gravel and pebbles do not retain much heat, making them comfortable to walk on.
Moreover, gravel and pebbles require minimal maintenance and are easy to replace if necessary. They also allow for better water drainage, an important factor to consider in our desert environment. For creative ways to use gravel in your yard, check out our post on Creative Gravel Patterns for Front Yard Appeal.
Porcelain Pavers: Stylish and Heat-Resistant
Porcelain pavers are a relatively new entrant in the world of hardscaping, but they’ve quickly gained popularity due to their durability, low maintenance needs, and heat-resistant properties. These pavers are made from high-quality porcelain that is fired at extremely high temperatures. This process makes them resistant to heat, frost, and UV rays.
Porcelain pavers come in a wide range of colors and textures, including options that mimic the look of wood, stone, or concrete. They can be used for patios, walkways, pool decks, and more. Their low heat absorption makes them a comfortable and stylish choice for hardscaping in Gilbert.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hardscaping materials can significantly impact the comfort and usability of your outdoor spaces in Gilbert’s hot climate. By opting for materials that stay cool, such as natural stone, composite decking, gravel, or porcelain pavers, you can enhance the beauty of your landscape while ensuring it remains a cool oasis even in the midst of summer.
Remember, it’s not just about choosing the right material; placement also plays a key role in heat retention. Try to incorporate shade elements, such as pergolas or shade sails, into your hardscaping design. This can provide additional relief from the sun and further reduce the heat absorption of your hardscaping elements.
