Decomposed granite in backyard?

Question

I purchased a rental (duplex, each unit is $1k/month). The tenants in both units want to reseed the backyard. One has suggested putting decomposed granite for half the lawn, and then grass for the 2nd half. This is because they claim its lower maintenance and they have a dog -- so more pet friendly.

I have no idea. Any thoughts? What are future maintenance concerns? the cost seems reasonable enough.

Thank you!

I have no idea.  Any thoughts?  What are future maintenance concerns?  the cost seems reasonable enough.

Thank you!

David Krulac · Answer

Arjun K.

Think of it as a giant litter box, who is going to clean it after the tenant leaves?

Matt Devincenzo · Answer

Haha that's actually a really good description.

Whatever you do I'd tell the tenant if they want a yard improvement they can pay for it upon your approval of their "idea". Yards while nice are not a fundamental necessity to living in a place, now if they're good tenants and their lease is up and you want to give them a reason to stay then maybe spend $200 and get another year lease out of them.

George P. · Answer

besides dirt, nothing's cheaper than grass seeds.

buy them a bag and let them re-seed.

Jon Klaus · Answer

It "decomposes" down to large sand and small gravel size. It works great in landscapes where grass or other ground cover is a challenge. It hardens over time, though I think a determined dog could dig in it. Maybe it's sharp edges would discourage digging?  It's cheap in areas with lots of granite, like central Texas.

Ryan Moses · Answer

It is affordable and low maintenance, is water penetrable and good for pets.Besides you can easily remove it in future if you need to.

Phillip Dwyer · Answer

I wouldn't put too much into a yard with a dog involved.

Bill Gulley · Answer

I'd say no, good points above.

Decomposed? Do you mean crushed? I had no idea granite decomposed, it's been around a pretty long time!  :)

Matt Devincenzo · Answer

Decomposed granite isn't bad out her in CA it's usually what they use in any sort of desert/low water landscaping. Think of a rock garden with the sand in it, that's basically what DG looks like. It will definitely be low cost as far as not needing water or mowing.

If the tenants want it great, have them pay to install it unless you've already agreed to the cost otherwise it's just an expense that doesn't get more rent so you don't need to do it. If your concern is future expenses with it, you really shouldn't have any so I wouldn't be concerned there.

Decomposed granite in backyard?

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