DIY Builds
Photo by Plantpool images Pexels Logo Photo: Plantpool images

Will weeds grow through gravel?

Because there is more flexibility and movement with a gravel path, it can potentially see some unwanted growth, as weed seeds sprout from the ground into the gravel surface. In addition, grass can also potentially sprout from the gravel areas.

What is the cost of a 24x24 concrete slab?
What is the cost of a 24x24 concrete slab?

A typical 24x24 garage slab costs between $3,057 and $5,944 with prices ranging from $5.31 to $8.31 per square foot for a 4” reinforced slab of...

Read More »
Can you reuse potting soil with roots?
Can you reuse potting soil with roots?

Yes you can reuse soil with roots in it. However, try and remove as many as possible. Especially the larger roots left behind. Leaving some smaller...

Read More »
These are the Best Shed Plans!
These are the Best Shed Plans!

Comprehensive and Intuitive to follow. Build That Shed!

Learn More »

Having a gravel sidewalk, pathway, or driveway with your home has many appealing qualities. For example, you can have a gravel pathway using any number of beautiful kinds of gravel pebbles, including contrasting or complementary colors to your home. You can also have a gorgeous curving pathway with the gravel, something that can be more difficult to do with other roadway materials. And you can even use materials like crushed granite or lava, among other hard materials, to create the “gravel” sidewalk or driveway. Also, the materials are much more yielding in cold weather than asphalt is. All that sounds great, except for one thing – weeds. Because there is more flexibility and movement with a gravel path, it can potentially see some unwanted growth, as weed seeds sprout from the ground into the gravel surface. In addition, grass can also potentially sprout from the gravel areas. So what can be done to keep weeds and even grass from growing in your gravel? Here are some weed control tips:

Weed the area thoroughly yourself

Before you put the gravel down:

Make sure to thoroughly go through the soil in search of weeds and any other signs of plant life. Or if you already have the gravel in the pathway or driveway, temporarily remove it with a shovel. Turn the soil and check for any weeds, and pull them out. It is much easier to remove the weeds this way, than with gravel blocking getting the entire weed out. Rake the area, and some protective mulch, and then put the gravel on the top layer.

Use garden fabric to keep weeds away

Some people take this a step further and use garden or landscape fabric instead of, or in addition to, the mulch. This step will indeed add time and effort to the job, but it also offers very good results as far as keeping the weeds away. You also have to make sure to have a method to have the material held down into the ground, so that it does not blow away. Then simply put the gravel on top of this level.

Use salt for your weed control

Some people “brine” their gravel pathways with salt water. This avoids the use of herbicides completely. However, this can have some side effects. While the salt can indeed kill weeds, it can also kill anything else in its path, including grass and gardens. So you do not want to use this on a surface where the salt water will roll down into areas you do want to thrive.

Talk to your Lawn Doctor lawn care professional

Lawn Doctor has a variety of ways to establish pre-emergent weed control, as well as broadleaf weed and crabgrass control, so that any such weeds are dealt with immediately before your gravel driveway or gravel sidewalk looks out of control. Of course, these weed control and prevention services are also available for the rest of your lawn as well to keep the weeds at bay. Good luck with your gravel, and let us know if we can help.

How do you reinforce a shed?
How do you reinforce a shed?

Using nuts and bolts instead of the standard screws is always a good idea since the former is a lot more difficult to break. In addition to...

Read More »
Do composting toilets stink?
Do composting toilets stink?

Does composting toilets smell bad? When people consider the new idea of compost toilets, they assume the toilet would stink up the house. They...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Can you put a shed straight on gravel?

Lawn, gravel or dirt are not suitable bases - It is not recommended that you build your new shed directly onto a lawn, bare ground or gravel. Not only can this result in subsidence and warping, but can also lead to damage from damp.

So you've bought your new shed, you're now waiting for it to be delivered and you've considered where you would like to build it in your garden. Below you will find example of what to do and what not to do, when preparing your garden.

Have you prepared the ground ready to install your new shed onto?

When installing a timber shed you must ensure that you have a even and level surface onto which you can build it. This can be made using either concrete, garden slabs or even timber decking. Failing to prepare a level surface will lead to your shed warping, which can result in damaged timber or even broken windows. If you're using one of our shed bases you will still need to clear the area for rubble. It's also a good idea to lay a weed proof membranes, to prevent growth and eventual damage to your shed.

But I've paid for a shed installation service, do I still need to prepare my garden?

Yes.

Our installation teams will not clear your garden or lay a concrete surface for you. You will need to make sure that you have prepared the area in time for your delivery and installation.

Does rotten wood burn good?
Does rotten wood burn good?

Can You Burn Rotten Firewood? You can - but it's not recommended. Rotten wood is not only less dense than solid wood, meaning it won't produce as...

Read More »
How long does a Keter shed last?
How long does a Keter shed last?

How Long Do Keter Sheds Last? Like all plastic sheds you would get at least 20 years of use from a Keter branded product. Whilst they don't require...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Do you need a vapor barrier for an unheated garage?
Do you need a vapor barrier for an unheated garage?

The majority seem to agree that insulated, unheated garages, should be allowed to breathe. If the garage is heated, you will need a vapor barrier,...

Read More »
Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »
What can you fit in a 10x20 shed?
What can you fit in a 10x20 shed?

A 10×20 shed is large enough to store anything. Okay, maybe not anything, but you get the gist. 200 square feet gives you the flexibility to store...

Read More »