Any home looks better with a well presented garden, and a gravel path is an attractive addition, and done correctly will enhance kerb appeal to a property. Provided the area is flat it is a reasonably quick job to complete. It is also economical and, if a change of mind happens at a later date, it can be very easily changed. The main objective is to keep all the gravel in place with good edgings to avoid gravel spreading over the garden.

Suitable edgings for a gravel path would include bricks, treated timber or concrete kerbstones. However, if any plants are going to spread on to the gravel path, there is no point in spending a lot of money on the edging as it will be hidden. Remember when working outside to have all windows and doors locked as opportunist thieves in the area may mean a claim on the household insurance.

When choosing what type of gravel to use on the pathway, consider the drawbacks of using pea gravel or any other small sized stones. Smaller sized gravel does not stay together as well as larger stones and they will spread everywhere making it look unsightly. So it is always best to use larger gravel. First job is to mark out the position of the path, do this by using string and pegs. If enough space is available try and make the path wide enough for two people to pass each other. Use a spade to excavate the marked area to a depth of at least 4in, then the area will need levelling with a rake. A good idea at this point is to apply a liquid weed killer which will help make it harder for weeds to grow up through the gravel.

Next position the edging all along the side of the pathway, if using timber, screw them to some timber pegs inserted into the ground. Now place weed proof sheets along the floor of the trench and make sure to overlap the sheets where they join. Another option is to lay the sheets before fixing the timber edging so the sheets will cover the edge of the pathway as well. Next lay around 2in of hardcore onto the sheet surface which will create a good firm base for the gravel. Spread the hardcore as evenly as possible using a rake and then compact it all using a rammer. Place the gravel on top and rake evenly. Add extra gravel wherever it is required. After a few weeks more gravel may need to be added as the surface begins to settle.