How to Lay Gravel Over Grass

It’s really no surprise why so many homeowners think of replacing grass with gravel. It’s suitable for almost every type of garden, it’s easy maintenance and there are many types to choose from. So, if you are also wondering about renovating your garden space, this is a helpful guide on how to transition from grass to gravel.

So, if you:

• Don’t have time to look after a lawn;
• Want to replace your grass lawn with a gravel garden;
• Are thinking of creating gravel paths in your yard,

Then this article is for you!

Removing the grass

One of the most important things about laying gravel is the process of installing a weed membrane. And this, like any other landscape fabric, cannot be placed directly over a lawn. The surface would be too lumpy and uneven for the gravel to be laid down properly and as the turf decomposes, the landscape fabric will get even bumpier.

So, start with removing any large debris and other items from your lawn. If this sounds like a bothersome task to you, you can take advantage of our garden clearance service.

Here is how you can remove the grass:

Chemical methods

Removing grass by digging

This method is a lot quicker as you will be able to place the gravel right after you are done. The only possible problem is that it requires a lot of physical work. The most efficient tools for this job are spade or a fork and you will probably need to free a whole day to do everything, depending on the amount of grass you need to remove and the dimensions of your garden.

The best thing you can do here is to grab a buddy and share the work. You will be twice as fast and it will be twice as fun.

Removing grass by smothering

This is perhaps the easiest and slowest process. If you are the one to plan ahead and you prefer an easy and secure result, then, this is the method for you. With this technique, you will literally kill the grass by cutting out all needed sources for life. You can use plastic or an old carpet, here is how:

How to choose the correct gravel

If you want to have the best results and enjoy your garden for years to come, you have to be careful when choosing the type of hardscaping material. Textures, colours, sizes, everything is important. First, you need a clear idea of the gravel’s purpose. Small-sized, soft type of gravel will be perfect for walking but won’t be as good if it’s placed on a high traffic area, like a private parking.

So, here are the different types of gravel and their best use.

Laying a weed membrane and gravel

Having a weed membrane underneath the gravel is not necessary but it is recommended. Just as the name suggests, a membrane is a layer which will stand between the gravel and the ground to prevent any weeds from growing. Like the smothering method of killing grass, a quality membrane will cut short any light and air to the soil beneath and nothing will grow.

The maintenance will be a lot easier, as you won’t have to pull weeds every couple of days. So, if the area, you are renovating, will not need any green life, it’s best to make sure nothing grows there.

When choosing a membrane, you have to keep in mind the purpose of your gravel path or hardscape area. If it is one with less foot traffic, or is only used by people, then a thinner layer will do the trick. It’s a lot easier to cut and will also keep the soil beneath nourished by allowing water, light, and air to enter.

A thicker membrane is more damage-resistant and is suitable for vehicle areas and heavy foot traffic. It’s harder to install, due to the said thickness, but it’s a lot more durable than other kinds.

Before you lay down the membrane, make sure the area is completely cleared out of weeds, grass, stones, and anything else which might pierce the fabric. If you have areas, in which weeds are more likely to grow, we would recommend spraying with a weed killer before putting the protective layer.

After you have cleared out everything, start placing the membrane carefully. Overlap all the joints and gaps every 100mm by using stones and pegs, for example. When you are done, cut out all the excess fabric and do some finishing touches.

Once you have laid the membrane, you can continue with laying down the gravel. No matter what tools you are using, if you are pouring it from a bag or a wheelbarrow, always try to distribute it evenly on the ground. You can make things easier if you help yourself by using a rake or a spade.

Wash the gravel with your garden hose when you are done. This will bring out the colour of the stones and rinse off any dust that is left on the surface.

Pros and cons of replacing grass with gravel

If you are still wondering whether to take this step not, here is a summarized list of the most important advantages and disadvantages of installing gravel space in your garden.

Pros

Cons

Need help with your project?

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Takeaways

• To make for an even surface, remove the grass before placing the gravel.
• Do not apply chemicals to the grass on rainy or windy days.
• Choose the type of gravel carefully, depending on its purpose.
• A weed membrane under the gravel will stop any unwanted vegetation from growing through.
• Gravel is a good, low-maintenance option for your garden.

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Do you know something we don’t about replacing grass with gravel? Then, please, leave a comment below and share your tips!

Header image source: DepositPhotos / dit26978