DIY: Decorative Rock

Measure the length and width of the area you are covering with the rock. Multiply the length of the area by the width of the area to calculate the square footage you need to cover. Determine what size rocks you are using. For 1-inch rocks, divide the square footage by 100. For 1/2-inch rocks, divide the square footage by 110. For minus grade rocks, divide the square footage by 150. The result gives you the tonnage you need to cover the area.

Dig three inches deep in the area you are covering. Three inches of depth is recommended for proper coverage. Too shallow of an area results in easy rock displacement and causes bald patches, while an area too deep results in your feet sinking into the rocks.

Treat the area with plant killer according to the directions on the package. This ensures that grass and weeds do not grow through your rocks. Check with your homeowner association to see if it permits you to use black tarp under decorative rock. Placing black tarp on top of the soil before laying decorative rocks keeps vegetation from growing through the rocks.

Use a shovel to spread the rocks evenly throughout the area one layer at a time. Use the shovel to spread piled rock for even distribution.