Walkways & Pathway Projects

Stone

• Weather-resistant by nature, stones offer permanence to a lush yard that changes with the seasons. Lay stone tiles or pavers in intricate patterns along an angular walkway, or set irregularly-shaped snapped pieces like a jigsaw puzzle. Flagstone, fieldstone, sandstone, slate and travertine are types of stone split or cut for landscaping. Each type of stone comes in a range of color hues, and the pieces vary in thickness. Setting them in a foundation of gravel and sand makes it easy to replace or adjust pieces as needed while mortar-set stones are less likely to need repair.

Pavers and Bricks

• A practical fit for do-it-yourselfers, pavers come in different shapes, colors and sizes. Interlocking pavers come in kits and are cut to fit into each other. Edge restraints should be installed along the edge to keep the pavers or bricks from sliding or rotating when laid in a bed of sand. Once pavers or bricks are set flush against each other, compact fine sand or stone dust into the crevices to pad them. Though pavers and brick surfaces are durable, they should be sealed every two or three years to reduce fading and weather damage.

Gravel

• A gravel pathway is simple and affordable to install and has an informal feel that complements backyard gardens. Lay landscape fabric over an excavated site to prevent weeds, then pour crushed rock fill until the foundation is 2 inches from the surface and compact it. Compacted rock packs together for strong support and allows drainage from beneath. Crushed rock also has sharp edges, so for a comfortable walking surface, complete the gravel path with a layer of pea gravel.

Concrete

• Concrete walkways provide smooth surfaces for transporting equipment, bikes and wheelchairs. Concrete is versatile as it takes the shape of the form it is poured into. Pouring concrete is a straightforward process, but it is helpful to have two helpers to shift, level and smooth the concrete before it begins to set. As an alternative to the typical plain gray surfaces seen on public sidewalks, residential concrete walkways can be stamped and stained with color to give it a more textured, colorful look.