Whether leading to your front door or meandering to a favorite bench, walkways can be both functional and beautiful. And the material used plays a big role in that.
There are a number of different materials you can use to match your design preferences and budget. When we’re helping clients decide on a walkway material the main factors we consider are function, budget, and aesthetics.
In this article, we cover 5 of the most common walkway materials we here at Blessing Landscapes install for our clients. We’ll also cover some important items to consider when deciding which material is best for your walkway.
Paver
Concrete pavers are one of the most popular walkway materials for front entries and pathways leading to patios. There are dozens of options when it comes to shape, color, and pattern that allow for a lot of flexibility when it comes to design. They lend themselves well to angular or curvilinear walkways and can complement any style of home.
The labor-intensive installation makes them a little pricier upfront compared to other materials but they pay off in the long run. Once installed, they’re easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and resealing. They can also withstand heavy foot traffic and weather conditions making them a truly worthwhile investment.
Pavers also have good draining since water can seep between the gaps, and unlike poured concrete, there’s no concern of pavers developing jagged cracks over time.
Pro tip: We typically recommend a generous width of 5 feet for front entry walkways, and a width of 3 feet for other paths.
Flagstone
Beautiful, durable, and often lending a more upscale look, natural flagstone is one of the most expensive materials for walkways. Due to the unique shape of each piece, setting flagstones takes more time than any other pathway material. Naturally this makes installation more expensive due to the skilled labor involved to ensure stones are evel.
Since natural flagstone requires minimal processing, it’s a more environmentally-friendly walkway material. Some homeowners prefer to have flagstone installed with its natural shape for a more rustic look that blends in with their yards, while others favor a more formal approach where the stones are cut to shape for tight joints and smooth borders.
Pro tip: When installing flagstone, ensure each stone is stable and even to avoid tripping hazards.
Stepping Stone
Stepping stone pathways are a lower profile walkway option and can use flagstones or concrete pavers. They tend to be more affordable than continuous walkway materials and their spacing allows rainwater to drain naturally.
Since you can arrange stepping stones in a variety of patterns with different shapes and sizes, they allow for greater design flexibility. They can wind through a lawn, synthetic grass, mulch, or even across dry creek beds and streams. On the downside, depending on the material, stepping stones can crack or shift over time.
Pro tip: We carefully space stepping stones to comfortably match the average person’s natural stride. Our team also ensures every stone is installed evenly to guarantee a smooth walking experience.
Gravel
Gravel is one of the most cost-effective walkway materials you can choose. It adds a casual, natural feel to outdoor spaces and has excellent natural drainage. Gravel walkways can be installed with metal edging to keep them tidy with defined borders, or without edging for a more unrefined look.
If you’re considering gravel for your walkways, there are a couple things to keep in mind. First is that gravel can shift over time. It may require regular leveling to avoid uneven surfaces. Second, if gravel is installed without a proper base layer or weed barrier, weeds may grow through.
Pro tip: We recommend using ¼” minus gravel for walkways as it compacts nicely and doesn’t move underfoot. Unlike a pea gravel path, crushed gravel walkways won’t leave you feeling like you’re trudging across sand dunes, and you can easily move wheeled items such as trash cans or wheelbarrows across them.
Mulch
If you’re looking for an earthy feel or just want to keep your feet out of the soil, mulch is a great low-budget option to consider. It’s often used in garden paths or wooded areas for environmentally-friendly walkways with a rustic, grounded touch. Mulch helps retain moisture in nearby plants and is easy to spread.
Mulch is not as durable as other materials on our list. It breaks down over time and requires regular maintenance. It can also get a little messy in wet conditions, so keep that in mind. For long areas with poor drainage you’ll probably want to consider a different walkway material.
Pro tip: For mulch walkways, excavate 4 inches deep and install landscape fabric to ensure the materials stay where they’re intended.
Considerations When Choosing a Walkway Material
There’s no single best walkway material – each material has its pros and cons. The decision of which material to use will depend on your personal preferences and where you will be installing your walkway. Below are some important aspects to consider when deciding on a walkway material.
Functionality
Will your walkway see heavy foot traffic or is it merely decorative? Will it need to accommodate things like bikes, strollers, or wheelchairs, or will it only be used to occasionally guide visitors through your garden?
If your walkway will see heavy traffic you’ll want to invest in a durable material like flagstone or pavers. Gravel and mulch may not be ideal for high-traffic areas as the materials may shift and require regular maintenance.
Budget
Material costs, installation, and maintenance will determine how much your walkway will cost. Some walkway materials can be installed yourself while others will require professional installation. You’ll also need to balance the initial investment you will make with long-term upkeep. For example, pavers and flagstones will be more expensive to install but their durability can justify the investment. Gravel and mulch, on the other hand, are much cheaper and easier to install but will involve costs in the long term.
Design
The material you choose for your walkway should match the overall design aesthetic of your garden or yard. How will your walkway blend in with the architecture of your home, plants, and other hardscape elements?
If you want a more rustic look, you may opt for flagstone or stepping stones. Pavers provide a classic, structured look that can complement any style. Mulch and gravel can blend in better with your garden and add a more organic feel to your home.
Weather
Weather and climate will have a huge impact on your walkway’s longevity as well as how it performs. If you live somewhere with a lot of rain, you’ll want to prioritize materials with good drainage like gravel and pavers. And don’t forget that some materials can be quite slippery when wet! If your walkway will receive a lot of rain and foot traffic, look for a slip-resistant material to avoid any accidents.
Creating Your Perfect Walkway
The right walkway material comes down to your vision, budget, and how you plan to use your space. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic path through a garden or a sleek entryway to your home, each material offers its own unique charm and functionality.
At Blessing Landscapes, our amazing landscape designers love working with homeowners in Portland and SW Washington to create beautiful walkways for their outdoor spaces. If you’re looking to upgrade your home’s outdoor walkways contact us, we’d love to help you create your perfect walkway!
