In the context of landscaping, parking pads are a form of padding usually placed in front of one’s home in order to make parking the home owner’s car easier. Traditionally, parking pads refer to robust constructions that are part of outdoor flooring and are usually made either with concrete, pavers, granite or some combination of those materials. Alternatively, the term can also refer to removeable polyvinyl or rubber padding usually placed in one’s garage.
The oldest and most common material used to create parking pads is concrete. As it is very durable while also being relatively cheap, it is often the primary choice for anyone without specific ideas on how their pad should look like. Of course, there are several variations of concrete under the umbrella term of upgraded concrete that offer a more stylish and modern look that can complement the design of one’s home. Pervious concrete offers an eco-friendly option allowing water to pass through freely during heavy downpour, while stained or tinted concrete, especially when using the correct technique, can be a seamless addition to your home’s exterior.
For those with a slightly larger budget, pavers might be a better option due to their diversity. Pavers or paving stones are usually flagstone, meaning that such a parking pad can be expensive if the stone is used to cover the entirety of the padding area. Therefore, some opt to create only two separate lines of pavers for car tires and leave the grass inbetween, but this can require slightly more precision when parking the car.
Gravel can also be used as a material, as it is not only inexpensive but also comes in different colors that can match the property. It’s also possible to install a parking pad underneath the grass as opposed to above it. This will preserve the soil and grass without altering the appearance of your yard, making it the ideal option for those who do not wish to add any new elements or objects to their property. A plastic of concrete framework is installed below the surface of the soil in order to support the weight of the car. The grass can still grow from the soil, meaning that after a while, the entire parking pad will be completely covered in grass, effectively making it a part of the lawn. This will allow you to park your car on the grass without significantly damaging the soil it grows