Rubber Landscape Edging Vs. Plastic: Which To Choose?

When it comes to landscape edging, there are two main types that you can choose from rubber or plastic. Both have their own benefits and drawbacks, so which is the best option for you? Luckily, we have compiled our research about rubber and plastic edging.

Both rubber and plastic edging have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider your needs before making a decision. But then, the best choice will depend on your budget and your installation needs. See the list of things you must consider:

  1. Price: plastic edging is the most affordable
  2. Style: rubber tends to blend for a natural look whereas plastic comes in a variety of color options
  3. Durability: rubber best withstands foot traffic and mowers
  4. Weather-Resistance: though both can become brittle, rubble is less likely to crack than plastic due to extreme (hot or cold) temperatures or sun exposure
  5. Environmentally Friendliness: rubber is made from natural materials, whereas plastic is not
  6. Ease of Installing: rubber is easily laid out and secured, whereas plastic takes careful pre-planning and tedious alignment to install

Let's take a look at the pros and cons of each material to help you decide. So, which material should you choose? The answer depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the pros and cons of each before making your decision.

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What Factors Do You Consider When Choosing Between Rubber and Plastic Landscape Edging?

There are a few factors to consider when choosing between rubber and plastic landscape edging.

1. Price

Price is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting rubber or plastic landscape edging. The cost of the edging will vary depending on the material, size, and style.

For those on a tight budget, basic plastic edging is a great option. It is relatively inexpensive and can be found at most home improvement stores. But, it is not as durable as rubber or metal edging and may need to be replaced more often.

For those willing to spend a little more, rubber edging is a good choice. It is more durable than plastic and will last longer, but it is also more expensive.

Finally, for those with a large budget, metal edging is the best option. It is extremely durable and will last for many years. However, it is also the most expensive option.

2. Style

If you're trying to choose between rubber and plastic landscape edging, one of the main things you'll want to consider is style.

Both materials come in a variety of colors and textures, so it's important to think about how the edging will fit in with your overall landscaping design.

For a more natural look, rubber edging could be the way to go. It comes in a variety of earth tones, and can even be stained to match your existing landscape.

On the other hand, if you're looking for a more modern look, plastic edging may be a better choice. It comes in a wide range of colors, including white, black, and even bright red.

No matter what your style, there's sure to be an edging option that's right for you.

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3. Durability

When it comes to durability, rubber is the clear winner.

Rubber is made to withstand heavy foot traffic and lawn mowers, so it will last a long time. Plastic, on the other hand, is susceptible to cracking and breaking. It also doesn't stand up well to high temperatures, so it can become warped in hot weather.

For these reasons, rubber is the preferred choice for landscape edging. It may cost more upfront, but it will save you money in the long run by lasting much longer than plastic.

4. Weather-Resistance

If you're looking for edging that is weather-resistant, then rubber is the way to go. Rubber edging is made to withstand exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures, making it an ideal choice for gardens in hot climates.

On the other hand, plastic edging can become brittle and cracked in extreme heat, so it is not as well-suited to hot weather.

In cold climates, both rubber and plastic edging will become stiff and brittle. However, rubber is less likely to crack in the cold than plastic.

5. Environmentally Friendliness

Rubber and plastic edging are both recyclable. But then, rubber is not very eco-friendly.

So, if you're looking for an environmentally friendly option for your landscape edging, plastic is the way to go. It's better for the planet and will help you create a beautiful, sustainable garden.

6. Ease of Installing

One of the benefits of rubber landscape edging is that it is easy to install. You can simply lay it down on the ground and secure it with nails or staples.

Plastic landscape edging can also be easy to install, but it requires more planning. You need to make sure that the pieces fit together securely and that you have enough support to keep them in place.

In addition, plastic landscape edging can be more difficult to remove if you ever want to change your garden layout.

As a result, rubber landscape edging may be the better choice if you want a low-maintenance garden that is easy to install and change.

Overall, both rubber and plastic edging have their pros and cons, so it's important to choose the option that's right for you.

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What Are the Benefits of Rubber Landscape Edging?

View rubber edging on Amazon.

Rubber landscape edging is a great way to create a neat and tidy garden bed. It is also an effective way to keep mulch and soil in place, which can help to prevent erosion.

In addition, rubber edging provides a barrier that helps to keep weeds and grass from encroaching into your garden beds.

Rubber edging is available in a variety of colors and sizes, so it is easy to find an option that suits your needs. Best of all, rubber landscape edging is easy to install and requires very little maintenance.

What Are the Benefits of Plastic Landscape Edging?

Get plastic edging on Amazon.

Landscape edging is a great way to add definition to your garden beds and to keep mulch and grass from overrunning your plantings.

And while there are many different types of edging available, plastic landscape edging is one of the most popular options because it is inexpensive, easy to install, and durable. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors and styles to suit any garden design.

Another benefit of using plastic landscape edging is that it is flexible, so you can create curves and other interesting shapes in your garden beds. And if you ever need to make repairs or adjustments, it's easy to do with plastic edging.

Which Type of Edging Is Better for the Average Homeowner?

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Most homeowners are always looking for ways to make their yards look their best. For many, this means adding some type of edging to their flower beds and gardens.

There are a few different types of edging on the market today, but two of the most popular options are plastic and rubber. So, which one is better for the average homeowner?

Both plastic and rubber edging have pros and cons. It would be better to review them or even try them on your own. You can also ask other users for their feedback regarding the use of plastic and rubber edging on their lawns.

Ultimately, the best type of edging for the average homeowner depends on their budget and needs.

What Are Other Types of Garden Edging Besides Rubber and Plastic?

photo of a wheel borrow with soil inside, shovel on side, plastic landscaping edge on the ground

One of the great things about gardens is that there are endless possibilities for customization. When it comes to edging, rubber and plastic are not the only options.

  1. Stone edging can create a clean, classic look, while metal edging can add a touch of modernity.
  2. Metal edging is also durable, but it can be prone to rust. 
  3. Wood edging is another popular choice, and it can be stained or painted to match any aesthetic.
  4. Composite edging is made from a variety of materials, so it is important to read the labels carefully to make sure you are getting what you want. 
  5. For a more natural look, you can use plants for edging.
  6. Low-growing shrubs or groundcover can provide a beautiful border while also helping to keep weeds at bay.

Yet still, the best type of garden edging is the one that best suits your individual style. So don't be afraid to get creative and experiment until you find the perfect solution for your garden.

Final Thoughts

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Both rubber and plastic landscape edging have their pros and cons, but ultimately the choice depends on your specific needs. Before buying anything, review the list above and see which one fits the best on your preference.

To get more ideas about landscaping, see our posts below:

How To Plant Flowers In Rock Landscaping

How To Polish Landscape Rocks