🛠️ How to Build a Gravel Garden Path (DIY or Trade Pro)

A gravel path is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to tidy up your garden or yard.
Here’s how to build it like a pro — step by step — using the right gear to save time and effort.

🚚 Tools & Equipment (Available for Hire)

You can build a path by hand — but using the right equipment makes it faster, cleaner and easier.

Recommended gear:

• Mini Loader or Mini Excavator – for quick digging and moving gravel
• Wacker Neuson Compactor Plate (VP80A or similar) – for compacting your base solid
• Wheelbarrow, Shovel & Rake – for spreading and levelling
• Spirit Level & String Line – for getting everything straight and true
• Hand Tamper – for tight spots and edges
• Safety Gear – gloves, boots, glasses

💡 Tip: DO IT DADDY delivers all gear to your site, with fuel included and a quick demo to get you started.

🧱 Materials You’ll Need

• Crushed rock (road base, 75–100 mm layer)
• Fine gravel or decorative topping (10–20 mm layer)
• Landscape fabric (weed mat)
• Edging (steel, timber, or concrete)
• Pegs, pins, and string for marking

🔧 Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Path

• Mark out the shape using string line or spray paint.
• Standard width: 800–1000 mm for a comfortable walking path.
• Add gentle curves instead of sharp corners — looks more natural and blends into the landscape.

2. Dig Out the Area

• Excavate about 100–150 mm deep.
• Remove any grass, roots, or soft soil.
• Compact the sub-base with a compactor plate to make it firm and level.

3. Install Edging

• Add edging along both sides to keep gravel contained.
• Secure with stakes or pins.
• Make sure both sides are level and straight.

5. Add the Base Layer

• Spread crushed rock evenly to about 75–100 mm thick.
• Rake smooth, then compact it thoroughly with a Wacker Neuson compactor.
• Maintain a slight slope (1–2%) so rain drains off easily.

6. Add Gravel Topping

• Spread fine gravel or decorative topping (around 10–20 mm thick).
• Level it with a rake.
• Lightly compact if you want a firm finish, or leave slightly loose for a more natural look.

7. Finishing Touches

• Sweep off any loose material from the edges.
• Rinse lightly to settle dust.
• Optional: add stepping stones or pavers for a polished finish.

🔄 Ongoing Maintenance

• Rake occasionally to level out dips.
• Top up gravel every year or two.
• Hand-pull any stray weeds.
• Keep edges neat so gravel doesn’t spread into lawns or garden beds.

✅ Ready to Start?

Hire everything you need — compactor, loader, mini excavator — from
DO IT DADDY – Landscaping Equipment Rentals Delivered.

“More time doing, less time driving.”
Free delivery zones. Complimentary fuel. On-site demos.
Book Online Instantly → doitdaddy.com.au