How to Install Decomposed Granite
Decomposed granite is an affordable material for patios, walkways and driveways. It has a sandy consistency and is mixed with 1/4 inch pieces of granite. There are two ways to apply it: loose or coated with a resin that forms a solid surface. Installing loose decomposed granite is a do-it-yourself project that will take approximately two days. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Ropes or landscaping paint
- Spade or flat shovel
- Tamper
- Weed barrier fabric
- Spikes
- ¾-inch aggregate
- Rake
- Edging material
- 9-inch nail spikes
Instructions
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Figure the size and shape of the intended surface with a tape measure and a basic sketch of your yard. Lay out the path with ropes or landscaping paint. Use a spade or flat shovel to cut straight down along the edges of the site. Remove 7 inches deep of grass and dirt from the area with a shovel.
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2
Pack loose dirt at the bottom of the expanse until it is hard and flat. Place the flat end of a tamper over each section and pound it down several times. Cover the bottom with weed barrier fabric. Drive spikes through the corners to hold it down.
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3
Fill the excavation with 5 inches of 3/4-inch aggregate. Rake the aggregate evenly over the site and tamp it to compact the rocks into a solid base.
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4
Pour 3 to 4 inches of decomposed granite over the aggregate. Tamp the granite until the material feels firm under your feet. Add a 1-inch layer of decomposed granite along the center of the surface. Rake and tamp the material to form a slight outward slope to aid drainage.
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Secure metal or plastic edge restraints around the outside of the site with a hammer and 9-inch nail spikes. Edging is optional, but adding it will add a polished look and reduce maintenance by containing the loose material. Alternatives to basic edge restraints include pavers, timbers and natural stone.
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References
Resources
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