Hardscaping vs Softscaping: Which Yields Better ROI for Your Yard (Patios, Walls, and Planting Plans)

Homeowners often ask the same big-picture question when planning an outdoor renovation: what’s going to give me the best return on investment (ROI)? Should you pour money into patios, retaining walls, and walkways—or invest in lush planting plans and softer landscaping features? The truth is, both hardscaping and softscaping can add value, but the balance between the two depends on your property goals, budget, and long-term maintenance plans.

This guide breaks down the differences between hardscaping and softscaping, explains how each impacts curb appeal and property value, and identifies which projects typically deliver the highest ROI. We’ll also explore how the smartest investments often combine both strategies for maximum impact.

What is Hardscaping?

Hardscaping refers to the permanent, non-living features of your outdoor space—think patios, walkways, fire pits, decks, retaining walls, and driveways. These are the foundational elements that shape how a yard functions and flows.

Key hardscape features:

• Patios and outdoor living spaces
• Retaining walls (for grading, erosion, or decorative design)
• Walkways and driveways
• Fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and seating areas

Hardscaping typically requires a larger upfront investment, but it creates usable square footage, reduces long-term maintenance, and anchors your yard's design. For homeowners thinking of resale, appraisers often view quality hardscape features as extensions of living space.

What is Softscaping?

Softscaping covers the living, organic side of landscaping—plants, trees, shrubs, lawns, and flower beds. It brings texture, color, and seasonality into a yard, complementing the permanent hardscape structures.

Key softscape elements:

• Lawn installation or renovation
• Trees, shrubs, and perennial beds
• Seasonal planting and garden designs
• Irrigation and drainage systems

Softscaping tends to be more affordable at the start, but it requires ongoing maintenance. Its ROI is tied to curb appeal and environmental benefits (like shade, erosion control, and biodiversity).

Hardscaping ROI: Building Lasting Value

When evaluating ROI, hardscaping usually delivers more consistent returns, especially when tied to functionality. According to the National Association of Realtors Remodeling Impact Report, a new patio can recover 95% of its value on resale, while a fire feature recoups about 67%. These projects also rank high in buyer appeal, particularly in suburban and family-driven markets.

Permanent hardscape structures often:

• Expand usable living space outdoors
• Reduce long-term maintenance
• Improve drainage and grading
• Provide safety and accessibility

In ROI terms, patios, retaining walls, and walkways often outpace softscape-only projects because they are both durable and desirable to potential buyers.

Softscaping ROI: Curb Appeal and First Impressions

While hardscaping may edge out softscaping in pure ROI, plants and design elements play a critical supporting role. The University of Vermont Extension found that a well-landscaped home can add 5% to 15% in resale value compared to properties with minimal landscaping. In real-world numbers, that can mean tens of thousands of dollars in added equity.

Softscaping benefits:

• Boosts curb appeal instantly
• Provides shade and energy savings with strategic tree placement
• Supports pollinators and local ecosystems
• Can be scaled affordably

Buyers often form impressions before stepping inside. A carefully designed planting plan makes the property feel cared for, which supports (and sometimes enhances) the perceived value of hardscape features.

Maintenance: The Overlooked ROI Factor

ROI isn’t just about the upfront install cost—it’s about what you’ll spend year after year. Hardscape features require occasional cleaning, sealing, or repairs, but are generally lower maintenance. Softscaping, on the other hand, requires consistent attention: mowing, pruning, fertilizing, and seasonal replacements.

As HGTV notes, homeowners who fail to maintain plantings can actually lose ROI, since an overgrown or patchy landscape reduces curb appeal. In contrast, a patio or walkway stays functional for decades with only minor upkeep.

Which Yields Better ROI? (And When to Choose One Over the Other)

The “better ROI” answer depends on your goals:

• Selling soon? Invest in visible hardscape features like patios or walkways, paired with a tidy planting plan for instant curb appeal.
• Long-term living? Consider blending durable hardscape with trees and plantings that grow in value over time (shade, privacy, lower energy bills).
• Budget-conscious? Start with softscaping for quick wins, but plan for phased hardscape additions that build permanent value.

In most cases, the smartest play isn’t hardscaping vs softscaping—it’s hardscaping + softscaping. A patio surrounded by thoughtfully designed plantings will always outperform either investment alone.

Practical Examples of ROI-Driven Yard Investments

• Patio + Plantings Combo: A 300 sq. ft. patio with perennial beds can provide immediate lifestyle benefits while boosting resale.
• Retaining Wall + Shrubs: Functional erosion control plus evergreen structure ensures both practical and visual returns.
• Tree Placement: Properly positioned shade trees can reduce cooling costs by up to 20% (U.S. Department of Energy), delivering ROI beyond resale value.

Bottom Line: Strategic Balance Wins

When homeowners ask whether hardscaping or softscaping delivers better ROI, the most accurate answer is: neither in isolation. A yard that combines durable, functional hardscaping with visually impactful, low-maintenance plantings delivers the strongest returns.

If you’re considering a renovation, start with a professional consultation. Imperial Landscaping and Contracting specializes in creating tailored outdoor spaces that maximize both curb appeal and long-term value. Their team can design a phased approach—prioritizing hardscapes that anchor your space while layering in softscaping that matures gracefully over time. Reach out today to transform your yard into a stunning, high-value outdoor living space.

Sources & Citations

1. National Association of Realtors. Remodeling Impact Report. Retrieved from https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/remodeling-impact
2. University of Vermont Extension. Landscaping and Property Value. Retrieved from https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/426/426-087/426-087.html
3. HGTV. Landscape and Garden Cost vs. Value. Retrieved from https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/landscaping-and-hardscaping/landscaping/landscape-and-garden-cost-vs-value
4. U.S. Department of Energy. Landscaping for Energy Efficiency. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/landscaping-energy-efficient-homes