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A smart solution to a muddy thoroughfare with a new garden path using Travertine pavers and gravel at a cost of just $600.
The project
The grass leading up to the back of the house was always a wet sludgy mess, due to getting limited sun, and I hated looking at that part of the garden. There was no way to get from the house to the shed without stepping through muddy grass. I wanted to remove the grass and create a pathway to complement the deck.
After receiving numerous quotes of between $3000 - $5000 to complete the job, I decided to do it myself, and all it cost me was around $600.
Tools and materials
Materials used in the project:
- Travertine pavers
- Garden edging
- Edging pegs
- Weed mat
- Road base
- Bungendore brown gravel
- Sand
- String line
- Spray marker.
Tools used in the project:
Steps
Step 1
First, I measured out where I wanted the path and marked it out with string line. I then sprayed along the line with spray and mark paint.
Step 2
I used my edger along the marked line to create a crisp edge and started digging up the grass with a shovel. When removing the grass, I made sure to dig it out on a slight angle slanting away from the house, for drainage.
Step 3
Once the grass was removed, I raked the area making sure the ground was even, before compacting it with a tamper.
Step 4
Once compacted, I put down the weed mat and garden edging, and fastened with metal pegs.
Step 5
I evenly spread the road base and tampered it down as I went, creating a firm level base.
Step 6
I measured where the pavers would go and used string line to mark a straight edge. I then put sand down to lay the pavers on.
Step 7
I started laying the pavers, using the string line as a guide, and a spirit level. I used a rubber mallet to adjust and tap the pavers into place.
Step 8
Once all the pavers were down, I evenly distributed the gravel around them with a rake. I used the Bungendore brown gravel from CSG.
Step 9
To complete the project, I also gave the deck a much-needed sand and oil, and I was done. So happy with how it all turned out.
Before and after
How to lay paving for a path
Experienced Workshop member Adam has detailed a list of the tools and materials you'll need for your own paving project, plus a helpful video, in How to lay paving for a path.
More inspiration for your paving project
Community member Marty used charcoal-coloured pavers and river pebbles in his side access paving project.
Workshop community member marliemakesit transformed unused garden space with her small yard makeover with pavers and planter boxes.
Check out our Paving ideas for outdoor entertaining areas for more inspiration for your home.
Afternoon @TaylerMayd
That looks much tider and a lot more useful! With you doing the deck and the path together it looks flash enough for a "For sale" sign! 
Nice Work
Dave
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