How to lay a weed-free pebble path?

[GreenVista]

Hi there,

I would like to lift up all the pebbles along the side of the house, to then re-lay them with a firm base.  I know that grass or weeds may still grow up along the edges, howevever, the main aim of this project is to remove the ability for it to grow in amongst the pebbles.

I have read that the 'Garden Glue' product can be sprayed over the top of them, but this is far from permanent. So the new plan is to lift the pebbles up, and lay appprox 30mm of crushed rock and compact it down. Followed by approx 50mm of paving mortar, to then spread the pebbles out onto, and press them down somewhat, and level it off best as possible.

Can anyone provide guidance on if this is a good approach, or any alternatives?

Also have I got my layer thicknesses correct?

Also, if mortar is the best option? If so, what sort of ratios should I use to mix it up?

Thanks very much

  

 

 

[EricL]

Hello @GreenVista 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about weeds growing in your pebble path.

Your idea of putting in crushed rock is good, I don't recommend putting mortar in the mix as this will permanently bind the rocks to your pathway. Just to be sure we are referring to the same mortar mix -Dingo 10kg Mortar Mix is what I'm talking about. I suggest instead putting on a layer of Geofabric such as the Pillar 1.8 x 10m Grey Geotextile Drainage Membrane Mat. This will allow the water to drain away and prevent weeds from growing in between the pebbles. 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[GreenVista]

Hi Eric,

Thanks for this.

Though, yes, we want to permanently bind the rocks in place. This was the idea towards having close to zero maintenance when it comes to weeds and lawn growing in the pathways. 

Regarding the geombrane, I'll put  a layer of this down under the crushed rock, thanks.

My question was more centred around if I have my layer thicknesses correct?

30mm crushed rock -compacted. 

Then

50mm mortar (with pebbles set in the top layer of it.

Would this be strong enough to be walked on without cracking?

Thanks again

[EricL]

Hello @GreenVista 

That would essentially make it a concrete walkway with pebbles on top. If that is your goal, I suggest using Premixed concrete instead of mortar. Your proposed layer thickness will be enough to put your pebbles on top.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[GreenVista]

Hi Eric

OK, fair enough. Thanks Eric.

If I have approx 20m² in total to cover, would you think I can do it by hand, or would it require a cement mixer?

i.e. if I mix by hand in batches, would 1 batch start to cure before I can add the next batch after mixing it, and so on......?

Thanks 

[EricL]

Hello @GreenVista 

If you were to do it by hand it would require a minimum of 100+ bags of 20kg pre-mixed concrete. It would be better to get a cement truck service to pour the concrete for you. If you were to do it in sections, I suggest building form work in sections and adding steel mesh support. This will allow you to fill the walkway at a slower pace and allow sections of your walkway to cure. 

In this particular situation, I suggest engaging the services of a concrete specialist as doing such a large pour will require an experienced professional.  

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[GreenVista]

Thanks Eric,

Yes, I think you are right, that seems to be the direction it is going in.

Cheers