Tired of getting your
shoes muddy every time you cross the yard or walk through the garden? A path is
a simple solution that’ll also add a handsome feature to your backyard. In
this article, we’ll describe a variety of path-building materials that you can
install yourself. We’ll help you decide which looks best for your yard and
which best fits your budget, available time and skill level.
Gravel Paths
Click image to enlarge.
1. Gravel paths are the easiest to build. Although
these paths look informal, a limestone border like this one really dresses them
up.
2. Metal edging is easy to install, makes nice curves and costs less than other materials.
3. Tumbled stone and other stone borders require fitting, but they look the most natural.
4. Bricks fit together easily and form highly traditional border patterns.
Gravel is the easiest to handle and least expensive path material. It feels soft underfoot, but it’s
solid enough to handle a loaded wheelbarrow. And although it looks informal, it can complement a formal garden, especially if you add a stone border.
But gravel has several limitations. It’s not ideal for a walkway right to the back door—pebbles will
stick to your shoes and end up on the kitchen floor. It’s not the best choice if you have to shovel snow off it in winter.You’ll end up picking rocks out of your garden and yard. And it’s tough on bare feet!
Click image to enlarge.
Design Factors
Best use:
Gravel paths are best for light to moderate foot traffic.
Longevity/maintenance: A gravel path will last
indefinitely, but it needs upkeep. To keep it looking sharp, rake it and pull
weeds monthly. Every few years, top-dress it with a few buckets of new
gravel.
Drainage: No
special sloping needed. You can follow the grade of your yard, but avoid low
spots.
Slopes: Avoid
steep inclines. A heavy rain will wash all your hard work away. For steps, use
timbers or stone.
Borders:
Include a border in your plans. It’s essential for containing the
gravel.
Materials
Gravel is available in
many sizes and colors. Ask for gravel that compacts well. It’ll typically have
stones ranging in size from 3/4 in. down to a powder. Smaller stones (3/8 in.)
are the most comfortable underfoot. Larger (3/4 in.) stones stay put better
during rainstorms.
Buy your gravel from a
landscape supplier or directly from a quarry. (Look under “Sand and Gravel” in
your Yellow Pages.)
Cost: Figure 50¢ per sq. ft. (3 in.
deep).
Borders
Metal edging:
Thin metal edging offers a crisp, clean,“borderless” look. To contain the
gravel, set the edging 1 in. higher than the path. Anchor it with the metal
stakes provided. Metal edging is available in green or brown painted steel or
aluminum in 8-ft. and 16-ft. lengths. Cut it with a circular saw equipped with
a metal-cutting blade or a hacksaw.
Cost: $2 to $3
per lin. ft.
Stone: Almost
any stone can be used to border a path. Landscape suppliers will have several
types. If possible, fit the stones tightly for a smooth appearance. Install the
stones on an inch or so of gravel, then set them with a whack from a rubber
mallet. Cost: $1 to $4 per lin. ft.
Brick: The
brick border is a traditional style. Set the bricks upright at an angle or flat
in the ground. Install them in a 2-in. sand bed, then surround them with the
gravel and soil to lock them in place.Cost: $2 to $4 per lin.
ft.
Key Construction Details
Laying a gravel path is
mostly shovel and wheelbarrow work.You first flatten the pathway with a spade,
skimming off sod if you’re crossing a lawn. Then set the borders and pour in
about 3 in. of gravel.
You’re moving a lot of
weight. A strong back is essential—enlist a neighborhood teenager to help
out.
Tip:
Have your gravel dumped on your driveway. Shoveling gravel off a lawn or tarp
wastes time.
