How to Edge a Pea Gravel Patio

You can create aesthetic appeal around your existing pea gravel patio by installing an edging to the perimeter. Choose an edging material that works well with your landscaping or the exterior of your home. Stone, brick, and lumber are some of the common edging materials used in landscaping projects. Stone and brick are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. These features will enable you to create a customized, unique pattern around your patio. Edging installation is a simple and easy home improvement project that requires a few necessary tools. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you begin your work. You will need one or two days of good weather to complete your edging project.

Step 1 – Determining the Excavation Depth

Choose the material you would like to use for your edging project. Use a tape measure to determine the thickness dimension of the material. Divide that measurement in two. Add two inches to that total. Your final calculation will be the depth of soil that will need to be removed around your pea gravel patio. Use your tape measure to determine the width of the material. This dimension will be the width of soil that will need to be removed. Mark the soil to be removed with a chalk line.

Step 2 – Excavating the Soil

Use your spade to dig the soil around the perimeter of your pea gravel patio. Keep the line you are creating with your spade as exact and precise as possible. This will prevent your installation project from looking sloppy. Use your tape measure to ensure that the correct depth of soil is being removed around the entire perimeter of the patio.

Step 3 – Compacting the Soil

Compact the edging area by placing a board in the trench and pressing it into the soil with your rubber mallet. Work for the board around the perimeter of your patio. Use your level to be sure the soil is flat and even.

Step 4 – Laying the Gravel

Lay two inches of gravel over the soil. Use your board and mallet to compact the gravel. Position the level on the gravel to be sure that it is flat and even.

Step 5 – Laying the Edging

Lay your edging material over the level gravel layer. Begin the edging material installation at one corner of the pea gravel patio. Continue working around the patio. Position your edging material tightly together to prevent visible gaps.

Step 6 – Laying the Sand

Cover all of your edging material with sand. Push the sand into any crevices in the edging. Use your garden hose to wet the edging you have installed. Allow the sand to dry. If necessary, add more sand.