Types of Materials Used for Walkways

When you are considering constructing a walkway, take into account functionality and curb appeal. The types of materials used for walkways can offer a sturdy and reliable path leading to the front door of your home, and they can also add a decorative look that increases your home's value.

There are several ways you can use concrete as a walkway material. A standard poured walkway offers a bright and sturdy front walk. You can add color to the concrete to give it character and a unique look. Mix in different colors to give a look of marble or other stone. Stamped concrete can give the look of an expensive stone walkway at a lower cost than installing actual stone. You can also leave decorative impressions in your concrete with items such as seashells, or mark the date your family built the walkway.

Lay a layer of gravel in your walkway path, and then create your walkway with a decorative stone. Brick can create a colorful and durable walkway as well. Other kinds of stone include granite, slate, brownstone, limestone and sandstone. Each kind of stone offers a unique texture and color. Be sure to choose a stone that matches the color scheme of your yard. Pack the stone tightly when installing it to help prevent cracking with age.

Crushed stone offers color to a front walkway, but it is not as stable to walk on as stone blocks or concrete. You can get crushed stone in a variety of colors including white, pink, blue and gray. When installing a crushed stone walkway, be sure to dig a walkway outline at least three to four inches deep. Fill in the walkway up to the point where it is flush with the ground. Packing the stones in tightly will make them easier to walk on.