The environmental impact of metal edging: Myths and facts

When it comes to landscaping, metal edging has earned a reputation for its durability, sleek appearance and low maintenance. But as environmental awareness grows, so do questions about the sustainability of the materials we use outdoors.

In this blog we will separate the myths from the facts and explore the true environmental impact of metal edging for your landscaping project.

What is metal edging and why is it popular in landscaping?

Metal edging is a durable and visually appealing material that can be used to define and border landscape areas. It could be used to define lawns, flowerbeds, walkways or driveways. Typically made of steel or aluminium, metal edging offers a clean and structured look while preventing grass, weeds and other materials from spreading.

But why has metal edging become so popular?

1. Durability: Aluminium and steel edging are both extremely durable and weather resistant. Ensuring your garden boundaries stay intact for years to come.
2. Aesthetics: Metal edging creates a clean and modern appearance to your landscape. Its sleek lines create distinct separation between different areas of your garden.
3. Flexibility: Metal edging is a lot more flexible than other materials. This means you can create more complex and curved landscape designs.
4. Low maintenance: One of the most popular benefits is the minimal maintenance metal edging requires. It doesn’t require regular painting and staining like wood. Once installed, metal edging requires little to no upkeep.
5. Cost: Although the initial cost of metal edging may be higher than materials such as concrete or timber, it has a longer lifespan. The long-term cost will be less due to easy installation, fewer replacements and less maintenance required.

Why understanding the environmental impact of metal edging matters

Understanding the environmental impact of edging is important because it helps in making informed decisions about materials used in landscaping.

By selecting the right material, you can reduce waste and promote sustainable practices. Metal edging, particularly when made from recycled or recyclable materials, can have a lower carbon footprint than alternatives like concrete.

Debunking common myths about metal edging

Metal edging is often misunderstood, so here are some of the most common myths surrounding its use in landscaping along with the facts that set the record straight.

1.    Metal rusts quickly and is not durable

Aluminium metal edging, such as AluExcel, won’t rust. Aluminium edging is lightweight and built to last, offering an unbeatable combination of durability and flexibility.

Steel metal edging will naturally rust once it is exposed to weather, but it is a highly durable material. Steel edging is known for its durability and ability to withstand weather conditions, making it a long-lasting option for landscape borders.

2.    Metal edging is hard to install

Metal landscape edging is generally considered easy to install compared to other edging materials. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, flexible and doesn’t require a concrete base. This makes installation about 4-5 times faster and simpler.

Our metal edging is securely fixed in place with metal stakes, making it immediately ready for backfilling and surfacing once it has been installed.

Hidden connections between lengths of edging guarantee seamless joints without ugly overlaps, while the lighter weight of metal edging makes installation an easy task.

3.    Metal edging is bad for coastal environments due to corrosion

If your landscaping project is in a coastal environment, then you may be concerned about metal edging corroding. However, aluminium is recommended for coastal areas where it is particularly resistant to salt corrosion.

In contrast, weathering steel, also known as Corten steel, develops a protective patina of oxidisation that acts as a natural barrier to corrosion. While this is effective in most typical environments, it may not provide adequate protection in coastal conditions where constant exposure to salt can prevent the patina from stabilising.

4.    Metal edging is not eco-friendly

While it may be easy to assume metal edging is harmful to the environment because of its industrial nature, there are many reasons why it can be a sustainable choice.

• Highly recyclable: Metal edging is often made from recycled materials and can be fully recycled again at the end of its life.
• Exceptional longevity: Metal edging can last decades without rotting, warping or cracking, unlike wood or plastic edging. The longer life means fewer replacements, which leads to less waste and lower consumption.
• Reduced waste: Properly installed metal edging rarely ends up in landfills until decades later. Even then, it is often recycled.
• Low maintenance: Metal edging doesn’t require chemical treatments, sealants or preservatives which can leach into the soil in alternatives like treated wood.

The environmental benefits of Kinley metal edging

Kinley’s metal edging offers a range of environmental advantages that support sustainable practices:

• Long lifespan: Made from durable steel or aluminium, our metal edging resists rust, corrosion and wear. This reduces the need for frequent replacement and lowers overall resource consumption.
• Recyclable materials: Most Kinley products are made from recycled metals and are fully recyclable at the end of their life, minimising landfill waste.
• Minimal soil disruption: The slim profile of metal edging allows for cleaner installation with less impact on surrounding soil and root systems. This helps preserve the natural ecosystem.

Metal edging vs other edging materials

When comparing landscape edging options, metal edging stands out as a more environmentally responsible choice.

• Plastic edging: Typically lasts only 5–10 years and often requires frequent replacement. It is prone to cracking and is usually non-recyclable, contributing to long-term plastic waste.
• Wood edging: Although it offers a natural look, wood edging is vulnerable to rot and decay. It may also require chemical treatments to resist pests and weathering, which can leach into the soil and harm the environment. Its lifespan is generally short, meaning more frequent replacements.
• Concrete edging: Offers better durability than plastic or wood but comes with a heavy environmental cost. Concrete production generates significant CO₂ emissions, and its weight increases the carbon footprint during transportation.
• Metal edging: In contrast, metal landscape edging has a much longer lifespan, often 25+ years, reducing the need for replacements. It is also made from recycled and recyclable materials, making it a low-waste, low-maintenance and an eco-conscious solution for long-term landscaping.

Why Kinley’s metal edging is a sustainable choice for your landscape

As we become more conscious of our environmental footprint, the materials we choose for landscaping play a critical role. Metal edging combines longevity, low maintenance and recyclability, making it a sustainable option.

By choosing metal landscape edging, you are investing in a landscape solution that looks good, lasts longer and aligns with an eco-friendly future.

<>As a leading UK designer, innovator, and manufacturer of steel and aluminium edging, we’re always happy to help.

For more information on our complete line of products, inspiration for your future project and technical resources, get in touch with our team of expert advisors today.