Stone Wall Edging

Equipment

• Forming a stone wall for an edging project requires several types of landscaping tools. A spade works for digging trenchers and backfilling for smaller projects. For larger projects, a backhoe used for digging and a skip loader -- which backfills and moves larger-sized boulders -- aid in making sizable projects more manageable. Wooden stakes help to create an outline for the developing wall. Additional items, such as a pry bar, assist with moving and swiveling smaller-sized boulders. Using a tamping bar or power plate tamper to compact soil results in a level surface for the stone wall.

Preparation

• Determining the size of the trencher wall depends on several factors, like how large the area is and the required height of the stone wall. University of Minnesota suggests building two shorter, terraced walls instead of a taller wall. Many supply yards sell several small to medium-sized boulders by the ton for landscaping needs, including 6 to 12 inches, 12 to 18 inches and 18 to 24 inches. Larger walls require bigger sized boulders. Measuring the area for the wall and marking it with wood stakes attached to string helps to form a visual for the project. Using spray paint on curvy areas creates an accurate pattern to follow.

Construction

• Using larger boulders to start the project at the soil line creates a solid base for the edging wall. Digging a trencher to the depth of one-third to one-half the size of the first line of boulders helps to establish sufficient support. Placing the first layer of boulders and partially covering them with soil provides stability to the wall. Choosing stones similar in size gives the wall a balanced appearance. Fit the stones together, tightly rotating when needed, with the smooth side up, to make a suitable contact surface for additional boulders. Backfilling and tamping the soil before starting each new layer of the stone wall produces a leveled surface for the next layer.

Maintenance

• Stone wall edging has low maintenance requirements. Typical weeding of garden and lawn areas keeps stone walls free of unsightly overgrowth. A regular schedule of pressure washing with water helps to remove dirt from building up on the stones. Using mild dish detergents and water to clean hard-to-remove stains assists in maintaining the wall’s appearance. Avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning the stones, some cleaners break down the boulder’s composition leading to a weakened wall. Replacing damaged stones when needed keeps the wall strong.