Pave the Way: Using Pavers to Side Step a Common Pitfall

Foot worn paths in the grass don’t have to be an eyesore. Pavers can help!
We’ve all seen them and we’ve all helped make them: shortcuts across lawns that leave ruts in the grass, called “desire lines” or “desire paths.”
Because people and animals love shortcuts, it can feel like an uphill battle trying to get them to go down the right path. By installing a paved path, you can better control where people walk. Depending on the paving stones and complexity of your path, you may even be able to do it yourself. If the desire line is a literal uphill path, a contractor may be a better decision. Here are the general phases of a stepping stone path project.
Measuring the path will be first. The contractor will visit the site and assess the landscape. Average step length, according to the American College of Sports Medicine, is about 2.6 feet or 31 inches. The desired path will be divided by the average step length (30, 31 or 32 inches), giving your contractor the approximate number of steps in the path.
Grass covering will be the next concern. Contractors will probably suggest laying down sod if you wish to have a path of pavers with grass in between. The contractor will lay the sod down and secure it in place, and cut out tight spaces in the sod for pavers.
Heavier stepping stone pavers may be set simply in a layer of sand; for smaller pavers, it may be a good idea to use quick-setting concrete. Walkways must be steady and secure with no wobbling when you step.
The last part of the plan is up to you. You’ve transformed your landscape from a problem to a pretty path. Add flowers, lighting and garden trinkets alongside your walkway. Family, neighbors and guests will appreciate the shortcut as well as admire your taste.
Action Supply in Seaville is the leading supplier of all your landscaping needs in South Jersey. We are open 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 6 a.m. to noon on Saturday. We deliver six days a week! Stop in at 1413 Stagecoach Rd., Seaville, or call (609) 390-0663 for more information.