Homeowners have always liked stone paths because a stone pathway matches any kind of home architecture. We see stone pathways being used in several homes for its infinite durability. Many outdoor courtyards and patios are paved with stone in various designs and styles.

To build a stone pathway, you first need to make a plan. You also need to plan drainage and the base on which you will lay the stone garden path. You can choose from a variety of stone pathway styles – among the most charming are the stepping stone paths and the grass and stone pathways. Another way is by installing a wet mortar stone path. You can create very pleasing looking stone paths with the help of paving bricks or flat natural stone. A stepping stone path can be really convenient when you want to walk through your garden or yard without getting your feet wet.

While building a stone path, make sure that the pathway is a bit higher towards the center to keep it dry. Stagnant water on your path can eventually create damage over the years.

You have to choose the right kind of stone for your garden stone pathway. First decide on how much material you need. A width of about two feet for a single person path and four feet for two people to walk side by side should be adequate. Stones with the maximum quartz are the longest lasting. Natural stones like sandstone and quartzite conform to this. When the sun shines, the quartz glitters, looking fabulous. Other natural stones you can choose from are slate, granite and flagstone. You can get most of these stones in some really pleasing colors that seem to look good in any environment.

About the only discouraging thing about stone paths is the cost of bringing the material to your place. Stone is very heavy. So consider a thin stone that is strong. This will allow you to cover more area with the same material. You have a choice of quartzite, lime stones, flagstones and slate that come in thin form.

For stepping stone pathways, you will need to plan the spacing between the stones. The best way is to match this to your normal stride and mark the stepping stone path footprint, so that you can lay your stepping-stones based on this marking. The middle point of each footprint will be the center of each step you lay. Embellish this by laying grass between the stones and you have your grass and stone pathways! With this stone pathway, gardens look neat and organized.


© Copyright 2007 ExteriorDesignTips.com All Rights Reserved.