Have you thought about constructing a new walkway for your next landscaping project? Walkways can be a great addition to any landscaping, while providing people a convenient way to get to and from your home. If you’re wondering how to build a walkway, read on to learn some common “do’s” and “don’ts” of hardscape walkways.

Do…

Pick the right materials. Depending on the purpose of the walkway, the materials used should be different. For example, if it’s a garden pathway, stepping stones will encourage people to slow down and appreciate what’s around them. On the other hand, if it’s a utilitarian pathway, it should have a smooth surface.

Match the design to the home. Outdoor walkways should be in proportion to your home’s features. This includes the width, angle, and materials used to make the walkway. Depending on the style of your home, your new walkway should complement this overall style. An extremely sleek, modern home should not be accompanied by a rustic stone path.

Consider the placement. If your walkway is meant to be used for people to enter your home or wander through your garden, make sure it’s designed to allow that. If the beginning of the pathway is way out of the way, a person is most likely not going to use it. Additionally, you should consider curves instead of straight lines for the design of the path. This will allow people to follow the path comfortably and with ease.

Don’t?

Make your walkway too narrow or too wide. A primary walkway should be designed to to allow two people to walk next to each other comfortably. On the other hand, walkways through gardens or to the tool shed can be narrower. Visitors should feel comfortable using the path, not awkwardly having to squeeze on it together or feel the the pathway is so big it’s overtaking the area.

Forget to landscape around the walkway. Constructing a new walkway means you have an endless amount of landscaping opportunities. You can choose to place flowers or plants alongside the path, which would not only enhance the pathway but make it clear to any visitors.

Place walkways against walls. A good rule of thumb to follow is to place walkways an arm’s length away from any other structures. This way, people will have plenty of room to walk and carry items if they have to. Additionally, paths should not be limited to front and back doors. Paths places throughout landscaping can maximize the use of the total area.

With approximately 398,383 landscaping businesses in the United States, you should have no problem finding resources to help you build your new walkway.