Metal vs. Plastic Edging: Which Is Best for Your Garden?

Garden edging isn’t just a stylish addition to your garden. It plays a crucial role in defining your space, keeping materials in place all whilst giving your outdoor area a neat and professional look. There are so many options out there, and choosing between metal or plastic edging might be tricky.

There are pros and cons to both, and the right choice for you depends on factors like durability, budget, maintenance and the overall style that you’re going for. In this guide, we’ll compare metal edging vs plastic edging to help you make an informed decision!

Corten steel vs. plastic edging – a look at the durability and design impact of two popular garden border options.

Full Edging Range

Why Garden Edging Matters…

Before diving into the comparison, let’s quickly cover why garden edging is essential:

• Creates clear separation between lawns, flower beds, and pathways
• Prevents grass and weeds from creeping into unwanted areas
• Helps retain gravel, soil, or mulch in place
• Enhances the structure and organisation of your garden
• Reduces maintenance by minimising overgrowth

Choosing the right material for your edging ensures your garden remains tidy and easy to manage.

Sleek CORE EDGE metal edging creates a sharp, durable border between mulch and paving for a polished garden finish.

Metal Edging: Pros & Cons

What Is Metal Edging?

Metal edging is typically made from steel or aluminium and is used to create clean, durable garden borders. It’s often seen in modern and formal garden designs due to its sleek, minimal appearance.

Pros of Metal Edging

Long-Lasting Durability – Steel and aluminium edging are highly resistant to weather, impact, and general wear, making them a long-term investment.

Neat & Professional Finish – Metal creates sharp, defined lines that give gardens a polished look.

Flexible for Curves & Shapes – Metal edging can be shaped into curves, angles, or straight lines, offering design flexibility.

Resistant to UV & Moisture Damage – Unlike plastic, metal won’t degrade due to sun exposure or fluctuating temperatures.

Minimal Maintenance – Once installed, metal edging requires little to no upkeep.

Cons of Metal Edging

Higher Initial Cost – Metal edging tends to be more expensive upfront than plastic alternatives.

Prone to Rust (If Not Treated) – Some untreated metal edges, like standard steel, may rust over time. However, CORE EDGE steel edging is galvanised to prevent rusting.

💡 Looking for durable metal edging? CORE EDGE steel edging is rust-resistant, flexible, and easy to install, making it perfect for long-lasting garden borders.

Flexible CORE EDGE recycled plastic edging keeps gravel pathways neat while blending seamlessly into the garden design.

Plastic Edging: Pros & Cons

What Is Plastic Edging?

Plastic edging is usually made from recycled plastic or polyethylene and is a lightweight, flexible option for defining garden spaces.

Pros of Plastic Edging

Budget-Friendly – Plastic edging is generally more affordable than metal, making it a good choice for cost-conscious gardeners.

Easy to Install – Most plastic edging comes in roll-out or snap-together designs that don’t require special tools.

Flexible & Lightweight – Ideal for creating curved garden borders or softer landscape designs.

Resistant to Rust & Corrosion – Unlike untreated metal, plastic won’t rust or corrode over time.

Cons of Plastic Edging

Less Durable Than Metal – Over time, plastic can crack, warp, or become brittle due to weather exposure.

Not as Strong – Plastic may not hold up well in high-traffic areas or against heavy materials like large stones or thick mulch.

Can Fade Over Time – Sun exposure may cause plastic edging to discolour or weaken.

May Shift More Easily – Plastic edging may require extra stakes or reinforcement to stay securely in place.

💡 For an eco-friendly plastic edging option, choose CORE EDGE recycled plastic edging, which is made from 100% recycled materials and designed for durability.

A structured, contemporary garden using CORE EDGE metal edging to frame pathways and define planting areas.

Which Garden Edging Should You Choose?

The best edging material for your garden depends on your budget, design preferences, and long-term goals:

Choose Metal Edging if…

You’re in need of a long-lasting, professional-looking border.

The job requires stronger edging for driveways, pathways, or high-traffic areas.

You prefer a low-maintenance solution that won’t need frequent replacement.

Choose Plastic Edging if…

You need a low budget solution.

You’re after a flexible material for curved designs.

Working on a temporary or small-scale project.

💡 For a durable, sustainable solution, check out CORE EDGE

Final Thoughts

Both metal and plastic edging have their advantages, but if you’re looking for long-term durability, minimal maintenance, and a professional finish, metal edging is the superior choice. However, if you’re on a tight budget and need a flexible, easy-to-install option, plastic edging can be a practical alternative.

Key Takeaways:

Metal edging is durable, sleek, and best for permanent garden borders.

Plastic edging is budget-friendly, flexible, and suitable for quick installations.

Consider CORE EDGE recycled plastic or steel edging for an eco-friendly and reliable option.

Investing in the right garden edging can transform your outdoor space, keeping it neat, structured, and low-maintenance for years to come.