Landscape edging plays a crucial role in defining garden boundaries, preventing grass from encroaching into flower beds, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces. Col-Met steel landscape edging is a durable and long-lasting solution that offers both functionality and visual appeal. This guide provides a detailed overview of the installation process, including key considerations, frequently asked questions, and product-specific details from Col-Met’s official specifications.
Introduction
Col-Met steel landscape edging is designed for both residential and commercial landscapes. Constructed from 12-gauge powder-coated steel, it is resistant to damage from string trimmers, mowers, and harsh weather conditions. The product is available in kits that include multiple 10-foot sections and stakes for secure installation. These kits are engineered for flexibility, allowing for both straight and curved designs.
Installation of Col-Met steel edging involves planning, trenching, positioning, securing, and backfilling. The process is straightforward for most homeowners with basic tools and careful planning. The following sections provide a step-by-step guide based on the manufacturer’s instructions and user experiences shared in technical resources.
Planning Your Layout
Before beginning the installation, it is essential to plan the layout of the edging. This involves determining the exact placement of the steel border and marking it out clearly. Using tools such as a garden hose, rope, or spray paint can help create a visual guide for the edging's path.
For straight lines, use stakes and string to ensure accuracy. For curved designs, gently bend the steel edging to fit the intended shape. Planning ahead ensures that the final result is clean and well-defined, while also helping to avoid unnecessary material waste.
Preparing the Trench
Once the layout is determined, the next step is to prepare the trench. Using a spade or half-moon edger, dig a trench along the marked line. The depth of the trench should be approximately 4 inches, which allows for about half an inch of the edging to remain visible above the soil. This depth is critical for containing grass and weeds while ensuring the edging remains stable.
The width of the trench should be just enough to accommodate the steel edging. If the soil is particularly hard, it may be necessary to dig a slightly deeper and wider trench to facilitate installation.
Positioning the Edging
After the trench is prepared, the next step is to place the Col-Met steel edging into the trench. The edging can be cut to size using a hacksaw or metal snips if necessary. Any sharp edges should be smoothed for safety before installation.
For curved designs, the steel can be gently bent to follow the contours of the landscape. It is important to avoid sharp angles, as these can cause the metal to kink. When multiple sections are required, connect them according to the manufacturer’s instructions by overlapping the pieces and securing them with the provided stakes.
Securing the Edging
To ensure the edging remains in place, it is essential to secure it properly. Col-Met steel edging comes with pre-drilled holes for inserting stakes. These should be hammered into the ground at regular intervals—typically every 3 to 4 feet. A rubber mallet is recommended over a metal hammer to avoid damaging the finish of the edging.
When securing the edging on sloped areas, additional stakes may be necessary to maintain stability. It is also important to ensure that the tops of the edging are level for a uniform appearance.
Backfilling and Finishing
Once the edging is in place and secured, the final step is to backfill the trench. Press soil firmly against both sides of the edging to stabilize it. Watering the area can help the soil settle, and adding mulch or gravel on the inside of the edging can further enhance the appearance and functionality of the garden.
For curved designs, it is recommended to gently bend the steel before installation to ensure the shape is maintained. This also helps prevent any damage to the metal during the installation process.
Product Specifications and Features
Col-Met steel landscape edging is manufactured using 12-gauge powder-coated steel, which provides durability and resistance to rust. The product is sold in kits that include five 10-foot sections and 20 stakes for installation. Each connection requires an overlap, and it is recommended to subtract 8 inches for each connection to ensure a seamless fit.
The steel edging is designed to withstand damage from string trimmers, mowers, and harsh weather conditions. It is available through various retailers and is shipped via motor freight. The product is covered under A.M. Leonard's 30-Day Down to Earth Guarantee, providing customers with confidence in its quality and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Col-Met steel edging be cut to fit specific lengths?
Yes, Col-Met steel edging can be cut to fit specific lengths using a hacksaw or metal snips. It is important to smooth any sharp edges for safety before installation.
What is the ideal depth for installing steel landscaping edging?
The ideal depth for installing Col-Met steel edging is approximately 4 inches, with about half an inch of the edging remaining visible above the soil. This helps prevent grass and weeds from creeping into planting beds.
Will Col-Met steel edging rust over time?
Col-Met steel edging is either powder-coated or made from galvanized steel, making it highly resistant to rust and suitable for long-term outdoor use.
Can I install Col-Met steel edging on sloped areas?
Yes, Col-Met steel edging can be installed on sloped areas. However, additional stakes may be necessary to maintain stability and follow the contour of the slope.
Is Col-Met edging suitable for curved designs?
Yes, Col-Met steel edging is flexible and can be gently curved to fit most landscape designs, from sweeping arcs to tight circles.
Do I need to treat Col-Met steel edging to prevent rust?
No, Col-Met edging is manufactured with a powder-coated or galvanized finish that naturally resists rust in typical garden environments. No additional treatment is necessary for most uses.
How deep should I bury the steel edging?
Ideally, bury the edging so that only about half an inch sits above the soil. This ensures optimal stability and helps retain mulch or gravel.
Is Col-Met steel edging easy to install by myself?
Yes, with basic tools and some planning, most homeowners can install Col-Met steel edging themselves. The process is straightforward and does not require advanced skills.
Tips for Successful Installation
When installing Col-Met steel edging, it is recommended to use a rubber mallet instead of a metal hammer to avoid damaging the finish. Additionally, when planning curved designs, gently bend the strips before installation to ensure the shape is maintained.
It is also important to use a 3D floor planner to visualize the layout before installation. This can help in previewing different edging designs and understanding how they will enhance the overall appearance of the garden.
Conclusion
Col-Met steel landscape edging is a durable and versatile solution for defining garden boundaries and enhancing the visual appeal of outdoor spaces. With proper planning and installation, it can provide long-lasting results that require minimal maintenance. The step-by-step guide outlined in this article, along with the frequently asked questions and product specifications, provides a comprehensive resource for anyone considering this type of edging.
By following the manufacturer’s instructions and considering key factors such as layout, trench depth, and securing techniques, homeowners can achieve a professional-looking finish that enhances their landscape. Whether for a small backyard garden or a larger commercial project, Col-Met steel edging offers a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution.