Here are examples of construction tools and materials you can use for path building.
Concrete
For a permanent and durable path, concrete heads the list.
Its harshness may be softened by color topping, texturing the surface, or exposing the aggregate.
A long path is a job for a contractor. However, concrete can be expensive.
Brick, Flagstone In Concrete
Set in concrete, these materials are almost as durable as concrete and harmonize better with the landscape.
They cost slightly more than concrete and are best built by professionals.
Asphalt
Almost as durable as the above, some people object to asphalt for its commercial appearance.
However, it does not reflect heat and light as concrete does much less expensive and blends well with the landscape.
Large areas are best done by a contractor who can advise on hot-or cold-mix types.
Do-it-yourself mixes are available in some localities and are practical and easy to use.
Brick, Flagstone In Sand
Much less durable than when set in concrete, these materials in sand nevertheless make a highly attractive and satisfactory entrance, service, or garden path.
It’s not too expensive and can easily be built by amateurs.
To do this, following these steps:
- Excavate deep enough so 1 ½” inches of sand can be placed under the surfacing material.
- Tamp the sand level and tightly fit brick or flagstone over it.
- Brush and water sand into the joints.
Bricks are best with brick edging concrete, especially for an entrance walk.
No edging is required for flagstones. Stones or bricks that rise during the winter are easily reset.
Stepping Stones
The following examples make excellent steppingstone paths:
- Flagstone (either cut or broken)
- Flat-sided field stone (difficult to set firm)
- Concrete squares (precast or poured in place)
- Wood rounds (preservative-treated)
Doing this is inexpensive, but it can be a job for amateurs.
The thicker and larger the stone, the more durable the path is.
For spacing, lay stone on the ground and adjust the distance until the path “walks” easily.
Stones may be set on soil or a 1 ½” inches sand base. Simplifying settings and poorly-drained ground help prevent winter thawing.
Concrete Blocks
Concrete and cinder blocks are laid in patterns similar to a brick.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Excavate 8” inches deep and set blocks on level soil. No sand base is required.
- Fill the hollow centers with soil as you go along.
- Joints an inch or more between blocks are attractive.
- Fill with soil and seed grass or plant with creeping thyme, etc.
It’s a relatively inexpensive, attractive service or garden path.
Gravel
Over a 3- to 4-inch rubble base (use stones raked from the garden), spread a 1-inch layer of gravel.
Easy walking gravel should not exceed ½” inches in diameter.
Confine gravel with a border of stone, brick, or steel edging.
It’s an inexpensive service or garden path.
Tanbark, Pine Needles, Wood Chips
Depending upon where you live, one of these materials should be inexpensively available.
Mostly for garden paths, they are especially effective in woodland areas.
Edge the path with logs pegged in place or with stone. Cover the ground with a 3-inch layer after using a pre-emergence weedkiller.