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Gravel and Chipping paths

Paths are a permanent garden feature that can be made with a variety of materials, but they need to be at least 60cm wide. Paths can be made using slabs, block paving, tarmac or gravel, with gravel being one of the simplest options. Gravel paths are simple to build, look good and are fairly easy to maintain, usually just needing a good rake every now and then. Paving slabs are inexpensive too and are both practical and durable. They are also available in many different colours and textures, so they can be laid in a variety of patterns. Pavers are smaller and lighter versions of traditional paving slabs, making them easier to lay and suitable for small paths in compact gardens.

Bricks can also be used for garden paths and laid in a variety of patterns, much like block paving. However, be sure to purchase actual paving bricks which are designed for walking on, as standard wall bricks may start to break up over time. The choice of materials depends on the purpose of the path and the look required. There are a number of options, but if the path is going to be used daily, you will need to use a sturdy material, whereas this may not be as important with an ornamental path.

Gravel paths are a popular option, partly due to their relatively low cost and simple construction. There is a huge variety of stone chippings available in terms of colour, size and shape, but avoid really small stones as they can easily get picked up by shoes and distributed throughout your house!

Whatever material you choose for your path, you will need a good foundation to help prevent water from getting underneath the surface and causing frost damage. Paths also need good drainage and should be laid with a fall which slopes away from any adjacent walls. A drop of 25mm every 2m is a common gradient. Curved paths can create an attractive feature but are a little more difficult to build. Try using something flexible, such as a garden hose, to lay out the shape of the curves and make things easier. The excavation required for good foundations may put some people off building a path as a DIY project. Digging out a foundation is a relatively simple process, but it can be tough on the back and quite time-consuming.

If you are determined to lay a gravel path yourself, begin by determining the required layout and then excavate to a depth of at least 4 inches. Use treated wood boards as edging, checking that both sides of the path are level. Next, put down a weed-proof membrane, overlapping the seams in the fabric by at least 4 inches. Add the crushed stone base and distribute it as evenly as possible to a depth of around 2 inches. Rake the crushed stone level, compact it and finally pour the gravel into the path area before raking it level. Once the path has settled, you may need to add more gravel. If this sounds like a lot of hard work, you can compare quotes from local landscape gardeners instead.

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