HOW TO MAKE A GRAVEL PATHWAY – If you don’t want to make your path out of paving stones or paving slabs for example, then consider using gravel. Gravel comes in many different sizes and colour and can make a pathway look very attractive. Because gravel is a natural material this is also an eco-friendly solution and is very easy to maintain. In this guide we provide you with step by step instructions that will show you how to make a great looking gravel pathway that will last for years.
Step 1
Take a measuring tape, pen, paper, string and wooden stakes.
Step 2
Measure the width of your path and place two stakes, one either side along the intended path.
Step 3
Measure the overall length.
Step 4
Mark the sides of your path with a string line or marking paint.
Step 5
Take your measurements along to your local builders merchant and order the quantity of gravel you will need.
Step 6
Dig out the path to a depth of about 6″ and compact the surface with a commercial compactor. You can hire one of these from a local DIY tool hire company.
Step 7
If you are installing curb stones now is a good time to cement these along the length of your path on both sides. If you are not using curb stones the cut strips of plywood to the depth you made and secure these to stakes with screws or nails along both sides of the path. This will help retain the gravel.
Step 8
Cover the bottom of the path with a membrane. This will help prevent weeds growing through.
Step 9
Pour the gravel, and with a rake, level the grave to the height of the plywood or 1″ below the level of your curbing stones – remember if you laid curbing stones these will sit on a bed of cement of about 1″.
