Connect Outdoor Areas with Walkways and Paths
Beatrice, Neb. (PRWEB) March 28, 2017 -- For homeowners looking to enhance the beauty and functionality of the yard, walkways and paths are an excellent way to connect the dots and tie together outdoor spaces.
According to Atlanta, Georgia-based landscape designer, Doug Scott, of Redeem Your Ground, said well designed walkways connect different areas of the yard, both visually and functionally.
“Gravel and mulch paths are very cost-effective from a materials and installation standpoint, and in many cases, they’re a great choice.”
For homeowners looking to kick their landscape design up a notch, Scott recommended building walkways out of pavers, or paving stones.
“In addition to their visual appeal, pavers create a more durable walkway, ideal for high-traffic areas, or where drainage is a consideration.”
Scott said the process of building a paver-based walkway is relatively straightforward and can be completed in about one weekend.
The first step of this, or any landscape project, is to call 811 and have all utilities located and marked.
Then, measure and mark the location where the walkway will be placed. It also helps to know the width of existing walkways when deciding on the width of the walkway to be built.
Next, use a sod cutter to remove the existing sod and make room for the paver walkway to be installed.
“Today’s newer-model sod cutters can often be rented at local tool or hardware stores,” Scott said. “And they’re surprisingly easy to operate.”
With the sod removed, level and prepare the area using a base mixture of sand and crush and run gravel. The next, very critical step is to compact the base with a tamper.
Once the base is compacted, determine your desired pattern and lay the field of pavers. Once pavers have been laid, Scott recommended filling the paver joints with sand and installing a soldier course along the border to tie the walkway together. Finally, compact the entire walkway to ensure its level with adjoining surfaces so there are no trip hazards.
The resulting walkway will be a durable, stylish addition to your landscape for years to-come.
Visit WeAreExmark.com/diy to view more ‘Done in a Weekend’ videos with project ideas to improve the beauty and functionality of your outdoor living space.
Matt Gersib, Matt Gersib Public Relations, +1 (402) 314-2150, [email protected]
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