You may need to level out some parts of your yard in order to install the granite. For example, if you’re planning on building in a recessed area, excavate nearby raised areas as well to prevent runoff from flowing toward the granite. You may need to work around utility lines unless you’re willing to pay to move them, which can cost $300 USD or more. Keep the granite away from your home’s foundation, especially if the roof doesn’t have gutters. Rain will roll off the roof and onto the granite, ruining it.
Getting the outline correct is important since the construction work could cause problems later if it is done incorrectly. Note the outline’s location and dimensions to ensure that the granite will fit where you intend on placing it. All of the tools you need for the installation, including chalk and granite, are available online and at most home improvement stores.
A 4 in (10 cm) depth is a good starting point for most pathways. For patios, driveways, and other areas that experience heavy foot traffic, try installing a 6 in (15 cm) for extra durability. If the soil is soft or sandy, plan on installing a thicker layer of granite. Try making excavating 6 in (15 cm) or deeper. You can always dig deeper to fit more granite. It increases the cost of the project, but the thicker layer helps ensure the granite lasts longer.
If you don’t have a compacting tool, check with your local home improvement store. Some places rent out mechanical plate compactors. You could also use a handheld tamper, which is a square tool you can push against tough to reach areas to flatten them. For a more makeshift option, lay down a wood board and hammer it to flatten the soil.
There are several different types of edging you can use for your project. Metal is a sturdy alternative to wood that works well for almost any project. Plastic is also useful, especially around gardens.
Secure each stake with a single screw or nail. Position the fastener against the middle part of the stake on its outer edge. When you secure everything together, the fastener will pass through the stake and into the header boards. Metal headers often have slots for metal stakes, so you don’t need to screw them in place. Plastic edging material often does not require stakes. When you’re done installing the stakes, you can hammer the boards down until they are level with the ground if you wish to hide them.
You may need to cut the fabric to fit it into the hole, especially if you’re making a curved path. Use a utility knife to cut it to size. Installing a weed barrier is optional, although it often works well for garden areas and paths. A weed barrier is meant to stop weeds from growing underneath the fabric. Over time, weeds may eventually settle on top of it. The fabric can also prevent water from draining through the granite as quickly as it usually does.
For example, a hole 20 ft long, 10 ft wide, and 4 in deep is about 66 cubic feet. Divide 66 by 27 to convert it into about 2. 47 cubic yards of stone. For additional help, look up a coverage calculator for decomposed granite or stone. Type the hole dimensions into the calculator to determine how much granite you need to buy.
Regular, or natural, decomposed granite, is the least expensive type and is very porous. It works well as a mulch around gardens or other areas that require efficient water drainage. Resin decomposed granite is treated for extra stability and durability. Since it’s similar to asphalt, it’s useful for areas that experience a lot of heavy traffic, like roads or driveways.
The exact depth of the layer isn’t as important as its consistency. If it isn’t level now, the finished project may not turn out the way you envisioned. Decomposed granite surfaces are layered, so don’t fill in the hole all at once. The layers adhere to one another, making the surface stronger. It also gives you more of an opportunity to keep the granite compact and level.
One way to check for water absorption is to stick a metal pole through the granite. Note the height of the mark left by the granite on the pole. It should be the same as the layer’s thickness.
Cold, damp weather will prevent the granite from drying out as quickly as you would like. If you’re unsure, wait a full 24 hours to ensure it has plenty of time to dry out.
Most home improvement stores rent out compactors. Compactors are heavy, so you may need to bring a friend along to help you transport it. If you don’t have a compactor, get a heavy roller instead. It’s a heavy, wheel-like tool that you can roll over the granite by hand. A tamper tool can also be helpful, especially for areas you can’t reach with a roller.
The wait is the longest part, but take your time. The sturdy, level surface you end up with is well worth the patience. Note that the finished height will vary depending on your design. In most projects, the decomposed granite will be level with the rest of your yard. If you’re making a patio, you may wish to elevate it a little more to prevent mulch or other material from spilling over onto it.
