Pathways help you move through your landscape smoothly without causing damage to the plants. They also keep your feet clean even on muddy, wet days. Different types of pathways can also complement your landscape with attractive design elements, adding depth, texture, and complexity. Here are 5 types of pathways you can add to your landscape.

1. Stepping Stone Pathway

Stepping stone pathways are affordable, durable, and can bring a natural, earthy aesthetic to your home. When laying a stepping stone pathway, ensure the stones are placed within a close distance from each other and that the stones you use are big enough. If the stones you use are too small, you’d end up tiptoeing through the tulips. For the best results, use flagstones or large pavers as stepping stones.

PROS	CONS
Affordable	Can be hazardous for elders or those with mobility issues.
Natural, rusty look	Grass, mulch, or other obstacles can get in between the stones.

2. Gravel Paths   

Gravel pathways are popular due to their affordability. Gravels also provide effective drainage as water can soak through the pathway into the soil below. Most pathway gravels are recycled from other quarry activities, making them one of the most environmentally friendly pathway options.

However, gravel paths can be difficult to roll strollers or wheelchairs on. Gravels also tend to spread into nearby beds and lawn along the path. As a result, you may need to add gravel every few years. Finally, weeds can grow through the gravel, making it harder to maintain.

PROS	CONS
Affordable prices	Gravel loss happens over time and must be refilled every few years
Easy installation, can be DIY-ed	The loose material can be difficult to walk on.

3. Concrete Pathway

Concrete pathways require minimum maintenance and are easy to keep clean. Concrete is also more accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making it the perfect material for entryways or sidewalks. You can color and stamp your concrete for it to match your house. Concrete can also be poured and fashioned with nice, crisp lines.

Properly installed concrete pathways can last a long time and weather most storms.  However, the concrete will expand with hot temperatures, causing it to crack. Soil movement can also cause water to pool up under the concrete, leading to water damage.

Finally, you should hire a professional to install a concrete pathway. Rebar must be used to make the concrete strong. Before the concrete is poured, a wooden form must be made.

PROS	CONS
Low maintenance	Will crack due to temperature fluctuation
Durable and weather resistant	May suffer water damage as soil shifts and water pools underneath
Safe for strollers and wheelchairs	Must be installed professionally

4. Paver Paths 

Paver pathways add a simple, modern look to your landscape Paver paths are also great options for front entryway and can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal.

Pavers come in various sizes and styles. Choosing the right paver to blend the pathway with your home’s architecture or create a sharp contrast. Paver pathways also make it easier to transport large appliances or heavy equipment. You can even lay down pavers in amazing patterns to add some personality.

Once installed, paver pathways are easy to maintain since you can replace a single paver if it heaves or cracks instead of redoing the whole pathway. However, the upfront investment for a well-laid paver pathway can be higher than other options.

PROS	CONS
Elegant, modern aesthetics	Higher initial cost
Makes it easier to transport heavy items	May heave and shift as time goes by
Can be spot repaired	Requires regular maintenance

5. Bridges

Does your pathway cross a drainage swale, creek bed, or water feature on the property? You need a well-constructed bridge. Bridges can be built with various materials, including natural wood, composite wood, PVC, stone, tile, or pavers.

Bridges can add complexity to your landscape. When installed in the front yard with a water feature, it can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal. They provide a clean and effortless way for you to get over a pond or creek, turning your landscape into a watery sanctuary.

PROS	CONS
Adds complexity to your landscape	Higher cost
One of the most decorative options	Can be high maintenance

6. Ramps

Ramps make areas more accessible. They can be used in place of stairs or right next to them. Accessible ramps can be integral to your pathway to make life easier for elderly household members or individuals with mobility issues.

PROS	CONS
Improve your home’s accessibility	Must meet specific requirements (such as ADA specifications)
Make it easier to move heavy things around	Needs to be installed by a pro.

Can Pathways Increase Your Property Value?

Properly installed paver and concrete pathways, well-designed bridges, and wheelchair ramps that meet ADA requirements can make your property more attractive to high-end buyers, whereas gravel paths rarely have a direct impact on your property value. To maximize your investment in pathways, make sure you stay on top of seasonal maintenance. Broken pavers and cracked concrete won’t really help when it’s time to sell your home.

Hiring the Right Paver Contractor

Pathway installation is labor-intensive and highly challenging. The land must be prepared before laying down the materials. The sod must be removed, gravel or sand must be laid down first. A poorly installed pathway can cause uneven surfaces, pose security risks, or reduce the pathway’s lifespan.

Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping has the skills, experience, and crew to do this right. Our team can design the perfect path with bridges, ramps, and other important features. We also offer cleaning, sealing, and maintenance services to ensure your pathways always stay at their peak. Let us help you install a new pathway or repair an existing one.