When it comes to defining your landscape beds, you have options ranging from simple plastic edging to premium decorative concrete curbing. Homeowners in Owatonna and the surrounding area often ask which option gives the best value.
The answer depends on your goals, budget, and how long you plan to stay in your home. Here is an honest comparison.
Option 1: Plastic or Rubber Edging
- Cost: $1–$3 per linear foot installed
- Lifespan: 3–5 years before needing replacement
- Pros: Most affordable, easy to install, creates a clean line
- Cons: Shifts, heaves, and becomes visible over time — especially through Minnesota freeze-thaw cycles
Option 2: Metal or Aluminum Edging
- Cost: $3–$6 per linear foot installed
- Lifespan: 8–15 years
- Pros: Stays in place better than plastic, clean modern look
- Cons: Susceptible to frost heaving, can develop sharp edges over time
Option 3: Natural Stone or Brick Edging
- Cost: $8–$15 per linear foot installed
- Lifespan: 15+ years with maintenance
- Pros: Attractive, timeless look, durable
- Cons: Labor-intensive installation, individual stones shift and settle over time
Option 4: Decorative Concrete Curbing
- Cost: $6–$12 per linear foot installed
- Lifespan: 20+ years with minimal maintenance
- Pros: Seamless, permanent, no gaps for grass to grow through, dramatically reduces trimming time
- Cons: Higher upfront cost, minor cosmetic hairline cracks possible
Decorative concrete curbing is a continuous, machine-extruded border formed directly on site. It creates a seamless edge around landscape beds, driveways, walkways, and tree rings. Because it is one continuous piece with no joints or seams, there are no individual pieces to shift or heave.
15-Year Cost Comparison (200 Linear Feet)
For a typical Owatonna residential property with 200 linear feet of bed edges:
- Plastic edging: $400–$600 initial + 2–3 replacements = $1,200–$1,800 total
- Metal edging: $600–$1,200 initial + 1 replacement = $1,200–$2,400 total
- Concrete curbing: $1,200–$2,400 initial + $100–$200 sealing = $1,300–$2,600 total
When you factor in reduced trimming time during mowing service, curbing often pays for itself within 5 to 8 years for properties on a professional mowing program.
Curb Appeal and Property Value
Decorative curbing provides a clean, finished look that immediately elevates your property's appearance. Real estate professionals consistently note that well-maintained landscaping with defined bed lines is one of the most impactful curb appeal improvements a homeowner can make.
The National Association of Realtors reports that landscape maintenance and upgrades can recoup 100 percent or more of their cost at resale.
Minnesota-Specific Considerations
Our freeze-thaw cycles are tough on all hardscape materials. Tips for curbing in our climate:
- Proper base preparation and control joints are essential for longevity
- Lighter colors minimize the visual impact of weathering
- Stamped and colored curbing may require periodic resealing
- Pairing new curbing with fresh mulch installation or a landscape renovation maximizes the visual impact of both
Our Recommendation
Staying 5+ years? Decorative concrete curbing is the best long-term investment — low maintenance, attractive, and permanent.
Rental or short-term? Quality metal edging offers a good balance of cost and durability.
See Real Results
Want to see what decorative curbing looks like on local properties? Browse real landscaping projects completed by our team across southern Minnesota.
View Our Landscaping Projects →
Get a Free Curbing Estimate
We install decorative curbing in a variety of profiles and colors to complement any home style. Homeowners across Owatonna, Faribault, and the surrounding communities use our curbing to permanently define beds and eliminate weekly edging.
Or call us directly at (507) 455-0081. We'll measure your beds and provide a detailed quote on site.