6 Tips For Designing a Low-Maintenance Outdoor Space

Designing an outdoor space that is visually pleasing while also remaining low-maintenance is the dream for many homeowners. With the right planning, materials, and design choices, it’s very possible to build a space that looks great year-round and doesn’t require constant upkeep.

Here’s how to design a low-maintenance outdoor space that works with your lifestyle (not against it):

1. Choose Durable, Weather-Resistant Materials

The foundation of a low-maintenance space is choosing materials built to last. At Canlok Stone, we carry a wide selection of premium stone and hardscape products that are specifically designed to handle Ottawa’s freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow, and humid summers, without cracking, fading, or shifting.

Pro Tip: Concrete and natural stone pavers are a fantastic option for patios, walkways, and driveways because they’re tough, attractive, and easy to maintain.

2. Design Simple

Less is always more. Landscaping plants and features should not be so complex that they need constant trimming or watering. 

Instead, go for:

• Plants that don’t require frequent watering

• Evergreen shrubs and low-maintenance groundcover

• Simple, clean lines in your hardscape design layout

By keeping the design clean and functional, you reduce the need for regular pruning, weeding, or replanting.

3. Hardscaping

Hardscaping is, for the most part, very low maintenance and will reduce your yard work by a lot. High-maintenance grassy areas can easily be swapped out with stone, and the best part is how customizable hardscaping can be. 

Some ideas include:

• Stone patios

• Interlock pathways

• Retaining walls with built-in seating

• Decorative gravel or river rock beds
  

4. Opt for Low-Maintenance Features

Adding luxury to your space without the extra work is easy, you just need to find features that are stylish and simple to maintain. 

Some options include:

• Outdoor lighting with timers or solar power

• Gas firepits instead of wood-burning ones

• Composite decking or stone steps over traditional wood

• Built-in planters with drip irrigation systems

These changes can make a difference in your heavy outdoor to-do list!

5. Seal Your Stone & Pavers

One of the best ways to reduce maintenance is by sealing your stone surfaces. Sealing helps prevent staining, weed growth in joints, and moisture damage. Canlok Stone offers expert advice and product recommendations to keep your hardscape looking new for years.

6. Design with Drainage in Mind

Water pooling can damage your stonework and landscaping, leading to time-consuming repairs. Work with a professional to ensure your outdoor space is graded correctly and features effective drainage solutions, such as permeable pavers or French drains.

Build a Space That Lasts

At Canlok Stone, we believe your outdoor space should be a source of relaxation, not a never-ending project. We’re here to help you choose the best low-maintenance materials for your vision.

Visit our Ottawa showroom or reach out to our team today to start planning your dream low-maintenance outdoor space.