How to Build a Simple Pea Gravel Patio

Pea gravel comes in a variety of colors and sizes.

Patios provide an area to rest, relax and entertain outdoors, but installing a new patio is both expensive and time consuming. A simple gravel patio provides an area to place seats and tables but doesn't require the labor or expense of a concrete or paved patio. Pea gravel blocks out weed growth and doesn't collect puddles after rain when it's installed correctly. You can install gravel patios quickly, often in less than a day, depending on the size of the desired patio area.

Things You'll Need

• Stakes
• Twine
• Shovel or sod stripper
• Rake
• Plastic or metal edging
• Landscape fabric
• Builder's sand

Instructions

1. Mark out the patio area. Install a short stake in each corner of the area. Stretch twine between the stakes to mark the shape and size.

2. Remove any turf from the marked-out area. Dig up the existing turf with a flat-bladed shovel or use a powered sod stripper to remove the turf.

3. Dig out the patio area to a depth of 6 inches. Grade the area slightly so water doesn't pool in the gravel during rainfall. Drop the level of the dug-out area by 1 inch for every 4 feet, placing the drop so it follows a natural slope or slopes away from the home or building. Rake the surface smooth after grading.

4. Install metal or plastic edging around the perimeter of the bed. The top of the edging must sit right at or up to 1 inch above the surrounding turf. Edging prevents grass from encroaching on the gravel while also keeping the gravel in place.

5. Lay a sheet of landscape fabric over the soil inside the patio bed. Overlap the edges of the fabric so there is no gap.

6. Spread 2 inches of coarse builder's sand over the top of the landscape fabric. The sand provides a base for the gravel and prevents weeds from taking root in the gravel.

7. Fill in the patio with 4 inches of pebble gravel. The surface of the gravel should sit 1/2- to 1-inch below the edging so it doesn't spill over the top. Rake the gravel to level it after installation.

Tips & Warnings

• Combine pea gravel with paving stones for a sturdier patio surface.

References

• Cornell University; Mulches for Landscaping; Donald A. Rakow; July 1989
• Oregon State University: 10-Step Guide to Installing Pavers