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When it comes to choosing the best edging for pathways there are two main fundamentals to consider. Not only do edgings need to be durable, they must also work well with your landscapes theme.
Generally there are two main types of pathway edging; retaining edging and border edging. Retaining edgings typically are installed to retain aggregates such as gravel paths. However border edgings are more associated with creating a visual frame or border around paving and other surfaces. It is very common to border pathways with an edging which provides some contrast or visual texture. A good example of this would be a brick edging retaining a gravel path. In this article I will list and describe the best edgings for pathways whatever your gardens design or theme. 1. Granite sets
Granite setts have long been utilised to surface and landscape the public realm. Being an extremely hard wearing material, granite has become a favourite material for garden landscaping including paths. Granite setts can provide the perfect retaining edging for gravel surfaces. These robust cubes of stone make very effective structural edging for pathways. Setts also create effective borders to paving especially where they can provide contrast. The light tones of granite work well with darker coloured paving and can fit almost any style. 2. Kerb edgings
Kerb edgings come in a broad range of retaining edging and border paving products. These edgings are typically made from concrete or concrete aggregate with dye mixes. Kerb edgings can be long and thin or cubed with chamfered or bull nose faces. Due to their mass and size kerb edgings are typically used for retaining edgings to pathways. This could be to retain gravel paths or hold back soil from a paths surface. 3. Pathway edgingPathway edgings are linear edging kerbs typically around 1 metre by 150mm wide. These pre-cast edging kerbs are perfect for creating long and straight retaining edges. Path edging kerbs come in a wide range of colours and styles for every style. Some come with decorative rope top patterning while others have a bull nose finish. These edgings are extremely effective for retaining both soil and aggregates around and within pathways. They can also be used to edge driveways, flower borders and steps. 4. Bricks
Bricks have always been an extremely effective edging material for a number of reasons. Firstly they come in a broad range of colours and styles fitting into most landscaping styles. Secondly they are effective at forming retaining structures and even paved surfaces. This gives bricks a great amount of versatility and flexibility when building garden features. Bricks are perfect for creating retaining edgings to gravel paths and other aggregates. They can also be used to frame pathway pavers as well as form steps and level changes. 5. Cut paving edgings
When it comes to the best edging for pathways there are no strict rules. Consequently you are really free to utilise whatever edging material you wish. This is so even if the material has not traditionally been used as edging. A good example of this is cutting paving slabs to form and shape edging borders. This is a particularly good Idea with natural stone paving such as sandstone or slate. Slabs can be cut into thin strips, block shapes or squares. These can be set on to strong mortar bed to form unique edging for pathways. You may wish to cut some key groves into paving’s underside to bond well to the mortar below. 6. Flexible metal edging
Flexible metal edging has become an extremely popular edging product particularly within modern gardens. Not only can this sleek edging retain loose aggregates it can also provide a clean edge to paving. Flexible metal edging comes in lengths of around one metre which easily slot together. Gentle curves and organic shapes can be formed for more meandering garden paths. Most edgings come with vertical anchor strips which can be securely fixed into the ground. 7. Block paving
Block paving has become one of the most diverse and varied paving materials in existence. From contemporary, textured to cobble effect and elegant slim line blocks there is paver to match every taste. As block paving is designed for driveways it is both durable and easy to cut. This makes it a great choice for intricate curves or other challenging shapes. Block paving can be installed as flush edgings for pathways or to form decorative pathway, borders. 8. Timber edging
Timber is not always the most permanent of edgings when it comes to pathways. This is because even treated and stained timber eventually rots and degrades. As timber expands and shrinks due to its moisture content it does not work well with masonry materials. However timber edging can be a satisfactory way to edge gravel pathways. This can be achieved with a few different external timber landscaping products including deck boards, gravel boards and treated 6x2 timber. Deck and gravel boards are the best for forming curved and meandering path edging. Straight pathway edging however is best formed with more ridged and treated 6x2. The curved edging in the image below I installed utilising 150mm fencing gravel boards.
Thank you for reading our article on the best edging materials for pathways. Below I will link to some other articles you may find helpful.
If you require garden landscaping, pathway construction or garden edging installation services contact us here. Based in Amersham, Buckinghamshire we undertake most landscaping services and projects large and small. Our landscaping services cover: Amersham, Aylesbury, Bovingdon, Chalfont, Chesham, Hyde Heath, Great Missenden, Princes Risborough, High Wycombe, Penn, Beaconsfield, Tring, Gerrard's Cross and Denham. Our typical landscaping projects include: paving, patios, driveways, paths, edging, raised beds, garden drainage, lawn drainage, gardening, fencing, new lawns, garden walls, ponds, re-levelling, planting, wildlife gardens and vegetable gardens.
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Herb gardens can be one of the most productive parts of a home dwellers garden. Unlike vegetables, herbs can take much less hard work and be harvested at leisure.
Fresh herbs can be utilised for garnish, salads, teas and medicinal applications. Herb gardens however are not just about functionality, they can look amazing too! With a bit of creative landscaping and some planning herb gardens can become a real focal point. Herb garden edging can play a very important role! Some herbs such as Mint and Lemon Balm can spread if not suitably contained. Consequently installing the robust edgings for herb gardens can be of utmost importance. In this article, I will list and summarise 8 fantastic edging choices for productive herb gardens. 1. Dry stone walling
Dry stone walling is an ancient building technique involving building walls with rock fragments. These can not only look extremely decorative, their multiple crevices can make perfect planting pockets for herbs. As herbs like warm, sunny places with good drainage, these walls can make perfect retaining beds for herbs. 2. Sleepers
Sleepers have become a favourite outdoor building material for their natural aesthetics and multiple uses. These large sections of timber are extremely effective at making raised and retaining landscape edging. They can be installed length ways or cut into shorter sections and set in vertically. Their ability to create well drained, raised borders make them perfect edging for herb gardens. 3. Sandstone blocks
As many herbs originate from warm, rocky, climates natural stone is always suitable for herb gardens. This is especially so when it comes to sandstone! Sandstone has naturally light and radiant colours which gives it the feel of the Mediterranean. These sandstone blocks can be the perfect material for building raised edgings to decorative herb gardens. 4. Bricks
Bricks are one of the most versatile and varied building materials on the planet. With so many different variations, textures and colour styles there is so much to choose from. Made with natural clays bricks have unique colour variations which do not fade within sunlight. This makes them an effective edging material for herb gardens whatever your garden style. 5. Terracotta rope top edging
A terracotta rope edging is a decorative edging product perfect for edging pathways and flower borders. This edging has a real feel of the Mediterranean with its warm colouration and rustic appeal. These linear edgings are perfect for building raised herb planters within your landscaping. These edgings are easy to install and very easy on the eye! 6. Rustic kerb edging stones
Kerb edging stones are pre-cast concrete kerbs typically installed as retaining edging to block paving and patio projects. The large, bulky kerbs can form a robust, retaining, edging when laid tightly together. These rustic kerb edgings from marshals are perfect for building raised planters and edging to herb gardens. 7. Rocks
If you want to create a real Mediterranean masterpiece, why not consider edging your herb garden with rocks. Rocks can be a great way to retain and build up free draining planting beds for herbs. These can be particularly effective arranged within a naturalistic rockery design. Rocks can also be set into mortar to create effective boundary edging to herb gardens. 8. Rendered block
There are two things which herbs really like; sunlight and warmth. Garden edgings built with concrete block and rendered can make exceptionally modern edging for herb gardens. When painted white, these raised edgings can provide a real clean, Mediterranean look. The light colour will help reflect the sun and the concrete will boost warm microclimates. The result is edging which looks amazing and a happy, productive, herb garden. Thank you for reading our article on the best herb garden edging materials. Below I will also include some other articles you may find useful. If you require garden edging or paving services do not hesitate tocontact me. Based in Hyde Heath near Amersham, Buckinghamshire we undertake a broad range of garden landscaping services. some of our landscaping services include: Patios, pathways, edging installation, new lawns, garden re-levelling, clearances, Gravel installation, garden design, garden drainage, garden walls, fencing, retaining walls, wildlife gardens, ponds and raised bed installation. Contact us
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Time and time again bricks prove themselves as some of the most practical and aesthetic garden edging.
There is pretty much a brick to fit into any garden style or colour scheme. When it comes to landscape edging, bricks have multiple uses and functions. Bricks can be utilised to build retaining edgings to steps, raised beds and flush garden edging. They can be laid in a single stretcher row or as a double soldier course. In this article I will identify and summarise the best brick types for garden edging. These include a combination of traditional clay bricks and natural stone block edgings. 1. Rustic Red & Purple bricks
Rustic red and purple bricks are traditional clay bricks utilised for building homes and garden landscaping. These rustic bricks contain interesting blotches, speckles and colour tones which are a result of the firing process. Typical examples of these bricks include Chaileys, Ashdowns bricks which come from the clays of southern England. These extremely durable bricks work well with sandstone paving and perfect for edging lawns and flower borders. 2. Marshalite wallingMarshalite split faced walling is an extremely popular walling material which mimics natural stone. These pre-cast concrete blocks have a buff dye to give them a natural sandstone feel. These blocks can make the perfect retaining edging for rustic flower borders and garden steps. If cut blocks down the middle you can benefit from two faces which makes your money stretch further. Like natural stone these blocks are easy to cut and shape with bolsters. This provides the perfect rustic edging for mimicking natural stone. 3. Rustic yellow bricks
Rustic yellow bricks are typically produced from particular clay sub-soils such as London clay. These rustic yellow bricks are traditionally used to build homes and landscape structures. Rustic yellow bricks such as Thames Yellows and Sevenoaks Yellows are also perfect for garden edging. These bricks match the naturally neutral tones of sandstones and other paving materials. These bricks make exceptional edging for steps, pathways and lawns. 4. Block paving
Block paving is a pre-cast concrete paving unit typically laid as a paver to driveways. Although technically not a brick standard block paving is readily used as brick edging in gardens. Block paving comes in a wide range of different block products perfect for every garden style. The most typical use of block paving for edging is lawn mow strips and pathway edging. These blocks are very easy to cut into curves or lay to any shape or pattern. 5. Indian sandstone blocks
Indian sandstone blocks are a landscaping block typically utilised within Indian sandstone paving projects. Like Indian sandstone paving these blocks display natural sandstone tones and colour variations. This makes them perfect for building low walls and building edging borders within garden landscaping. The blocks are excellent for edging paths lands and rustic flower borders. Although it has to be said these are normally quite expensive to use on a large scale. 6. Engineering bricks
Engineering bricks are a common construction brick well known for their smooth surface and vibrant colours. These bricks undergo an intense firing process which cause the surface to become glazed. This results in a brick which is extremely weather resistant and impervious to moisture penetration. Their good looks and waterproof nature makes them absolutely perfect for garden edgings. Blue engineering bricks are particularly effective at edging lawns and borders within modern garden designs. 7. Old stock bricksOld stocks are a yellow stock brick that was produced on mass during the Victorian era. These bricks were produced to build the City of London within the UK from the underlying clay sub-soil. As these bricks were moulded by a hand press system it meant many had characteristic imperfections. They were also made to a metric scale which gives them a unique character. Their rustic charm has led them to become a favoured reclaimed brick for garden edging. 8. Granite setts
Granite sets have been used as paving materials for hundreds of years. These robust blocks of stone are both extremely hardwearing and visually appealing. Although technically not a brick in block form they work extremely well as landscaping edging. Granite setts have an ability to blend into both historic and contemporary landscaping making them effectively timeless. They are perfect for edging paths, patios, gravel areas and flower borders.
Thank you for reading our article on the best bricks for garden edging. If you require brick edging installation do not hesitate to contact us. Below I will link to some other articles you may find relevant.
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Tuscan gardens have become world famous for their rustic beauty and simplistic charm. Many Tuscan gardens seem to combine typical elements of both Mediterranean and French garden design.
These merge with a classical, Italian style and a flair for good design. This combination makes Tuscan gardens some of the most sought after and seductive in the world! However, behind all these influences lie landscapes of practicality with a focus upon production and simplicity. Tuscan gardens are often rural interpretations of traditional and classical styles. Consequently, edging within Tuscan gardens plays an important role in defining spaces and retaining planting borders. In this article I list and summarise 8 garden edgings ideal for Tuscan gardens. Red brick
Red brick with terracotta tones have always been utilised within the gardens of Tuscany. Fired clay materials such as bricks and pots have always been used locally within this region. Therefore, red bricks are a very effective and fitting edging material for Tuscan gardens. The best bricks are those with deep red tones with rustic imperfections and earthy colour variations. I find bricks such as Old Stocks, Ashdowns and Chaileys ideal edging for Tuscan landscaping. Dry stone walling
Dry stone walling is an extremely decorative form of construction typical of rural rocky regions. This type of natural stone walling is regularly found across rural Tuscany. Agricultural boundaries and buildings themselves are often made with natural stone. This makes dry stone walling an effective edging or low wall edging for Tuscan styled gardens. Flexible metal edging
Flexible metal edging is a modern type of landscape edging of which popularity has exploded in recent years. Although far from traditional landscape edging it can be effective for contemporary interpretations of the Tuscan style. This is especially so for edging gravel surfaces and borders to formal hedging. This edging is also very effective for edging organic shapes and curves. Natural stone setts
Natural stones setts have always been used within traditional European landscaping as a paving material. These robust cubes of stone are both decorate and durable making them perfect for landscaping applications. Both granite setts and sandstone setts are both particularly effective for Tuscan gardens. These setts are effective at creating decorative borders to paving and robust edgings to planting borders. Terracotta rope to edging
Tuscan gardens regularly display decorative features in theme with classical and historical architecture. Consequently decorative edgings with ornate patterning are always effective. This is especially so if they also come in terracotta which accentuates the Tuscan garden aesthetic. These terracotta rope edgings are perfect for edging paths and gravel areas within Tuscan gardens. Rustic kerb edgings
Kerb edgings are large and robust edging kerbs typically made for driveway and landscaping applications. These kerbs are normally laid to create raised steps, border edgings and accommodate level changes. This Rustic kerb edging block from Marshals greatly compliments the Tuscan style. It is perfect for forming raised beds and retaining edgings to paving and planting beds. Sandstone blocks
Sandstone blocks are a natural stone walling product which is typically incorporated into Indian sandstone, paving, projects. These blocks are commonly sourced from the same bedrock as Indian sandstone quarries. This gives them exciting colour variations and radiant tones. Their rustic appear and rough texture makes them the perfect material to form rustic Tuscan garden edging. Rocks
A typical feature of the countryside of Tuscany is medieval towns which pierce the landscape from rocky outcrops. Rocks are familiar element throughout the landscape and a historic building material. This makes laying rocks and small boulders for garden edging an exciting idea. Not only will it serve as a functional element but also become a focal point within its own right.
Thank you for reading our article on the best edging for Tuscan gardens. If you require Tuscan landscaping services do not hesitate to contact us.
We serve most of Buckinghamshire and neighbouring counties. Below I will link to some articles you may find useful.
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From the Riads of Morocco to walled gardens of English villages, courtyards have become the ultimate transition between home and garden.
These sheltered spaces have provided the perfect spot to meet and socialise with friends during summer evenings. The enclosure provides a safe, intimate feel and an atmosphere which is perfect for relaxation. As courtyards have square or rectangular walls a vertical structure is typically a vital factor. This makes courtyard edging an important element defining spaces and retaining borders. In this article I will list and summarise some of the best edgings for courtyard gardens. Rustic rope edgingRope edging is a type of path kerb edging traditionally used to create raised edging. Measuring around 1 metre by 150mm they are perfect for setting in along borders and pathways. In courtyards they can be hunched in concrete to form geometric shapes and boundaries. These edgings look particularly decorative it black and terracotta tones like in the image below. Granite setts
Granite setts have a timeless beauty and an ability to blend into any garden design style or theme. These solid cubes of granite have been used for external surfacing for centuries standing the test of time. Their light speckled colouration and rough surface gives them an attractive texture. In courtyard gardens they are perfect for creating borders to paving and other surfaces. Sleepers
Sleepers are becoming an ever popular material for creating border edging and raised borders to gardens. These large and robust sections of timber have a light and natural aesthetic within courtyards. They are excellent at creating fast and affordable, retaining edgings and raised surfaces. Sleepers are available in various size grades and also come in softwood and hardwood timber. Flexible metal edging
Flexible metal edging has now become an extremely popular landscaping and edging product. These long, flexible edgings are strong and flexible, perfect for forming organic shapes. These edgings can be used as formwork to edge concrete and other surfaces such as gravel and resin bound. For contemporary courtyards flexible metal edging is a superior edging choice. Sandstone sets
Sandstone setts are very similar to granite setts but display the sandy, warm tones of sandstone. These setts have seen an increasing adoption with the rising popularity of Indian sandstone paving. With interesting colour variations and rustic textures these setts are great for courtyard landscaping. Laid in double rows they can make exceptional borders to paving and planting areas. Rustic kerb stone edging
Kerb edgings come in a range of products designed to form raised kerbs and edgings to paving and driveways. When laid together, these bulky kerbs form a robust retaining edge ideal for holding back heaving loads. This makes them perfect for forming raised planting areas and level changes within courtyards. These rustic kerb edgings from Marshalls are great for traditional courtyard themes and designs. Dry stone walling
Dry stone walling has been used as a building material within rural communities for centuries. Consisting of small rock fragments, when laid together, they form a very attractive landscape feature. Dry stone walling can be used to form low wall edging to flower beds and seating areas. Where budgets cannot stretch, there is now very realistic dry stone wall cladding on the market. BricksMost traditional courtyards try to incorporate the materials of surrounding walls into their hard landscaping. This is especially so where landscape edgings which form the structure of the garden. This gives courtyards an amazing uniformity connecting surrounding buildings to the landscape. This makes bricks one of the best materials for creating edging to courtyards. Their range of colours and styles means they can blend into any courtyard theme.
Thank you for reading our article on the best edgings for courtyard gardens.
If you require courtyard landscaping or garden edging installation do not hesitate to contact us. Based in Amersham we cover Buckinghamshire, the Chilterns and neighbouring counties. We now also have an office in Norfolk. Below I will link to some other articles you may also find useful.
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Garden edging not only serves as a structural element, it can also have a dramatic impact for drainage.
Landscape edging plays an important role in defining levels and directing surface water run-off. Edging needs to create visual connectivity with the surrounding garden and serve other functions simultaneously. Therefore, the importance of edgings functional and aesthetic attributes cannot be underestimated. In this article I will summarise how edgings affect drainage and the best garden edging solutions for drainage. What is the best garden edging for drainage?
The best garden edging for drainage will set levels to slight falls directing surface water to drainage features. Edging can frame a landscapes surface at a 'flush level' avoiding bellies and troughs avoiding the accumulation of standing water. Garden edgings can also help to collect and divert water away utilising channel drains and gravel traps. Utilising intelligent design, garden edging and drainage installations can be combined to realise bespoke drainage solutions. How to improve drainage with edging
The best way to improve your landscapes drainage with edgings is by 'setting levels'. Very often gardens experience drainage problems and boggy areas due to level sumps. This is where surface water runs into low spots and saturates the soil. Such low areas can be very difficult to identify with the naked eye as levels can be subtle. However, with a tight string line, wooden pegs and a long spirit level these can easily be identified. Edging should be installed to a new, 'flush level' with slight falls to the lowest garden boundary. Then topsoil, lawns and other surfaces can be landscaped flush with the new edgings. The result will be a landscape which drains water away easily with no flooding. Raised edgings to improve garden drainageIf you have a low lying garden which congregates water it is inevitable you will have poor drainage. One of the best ways to solve this is by raising your gardens level up slightly. This does not have to be a large amount; a couple of inches can make a big difference! You will need to install raised, retaining edgings to your garden perimeter. These edgings can gently slope to your lowest boundary maximising drainage. Raised edgings should be robust to retain soil and ideally be made of masonry materials. Materials such as landscape bricks, blocks and concrete edgings are best for such raised edgings. Gravel strips for garden drainageIf you want edging to drain water away from lawns and other surfaces consider gravel strips. These linear strips of gravel collect surface water and channel it away to a drainage feature. An effective way to install such a feature is by installing a parallel line of concrete pc edgings. These can be hunched into position with concrete and filled with free draining gravel. It is best to lay perforated pipe under the gravel to enable water to drain quickly. Why not visit our article on how to install a gravel strip for drainage here. Double row edging with a drainage trapIf you have considerable amounts of surface water during heavy rainfall you can incorporate extra drainage within edging. The most effective way to do this is by sandwiching channel drains between two edgings. The edgings must be level with the surrounding ground in order to collect water. A typical drainage chamber with a metal grill can be laid between two rows of brick edging like in the image below. For less visual impact a slot drain can be installed underneath the edgings. The drainage slot can run the length of the edging collecting any surface water that travels over them. This principle of a double row of edging can also work well with an inbuilt gravel strip. Weep holes under garden edging
A great way to integrate drainage into landscape edging is by installing weep holes. This is only possible if edging is raised or retains an amount of ground. The installation is the same concept as weep holes for raised beds and retaining walls. Sections of 30mm PVC ground pipe can be based under edgings every metre. These will help to drain the ground on the higher level if it becomes too saturated. It’s best to cap the buried end with wire mesh and filtration fabric so they don’t become clogged.
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It is typical today to desire the perfect lawn with a clean layout and design. The contemporary style of garden has very much become a popular option.
Lawns should be functional and orderly. With this comes the need for lawns to have strong borders and straight edges. This can be implemented by using an edging that lends itself to creating perfectly straight lines. Therefore, in this article I have identified and summarised 6 of the best lawn edgings for straight lines. I will explain why they are suitable and how they are typically installed. Brick edgingBrick edging is a classic favourite when it comes to general landscaping and lawn edging. Not only are bricks robust enough to withstand outdoor conditions they can easily blend into any design theme. There is a style and colour of brick to suit any type of lawn edging project. Bricks can be laid lengthways or as a soldier course to make perfectly straight lawn edgings. This can be laid on a strong mortar bed to a tight and level string line. Paving edging
Another way of creating straight lawn edging is with conventional paving. Natural stone paving can be cut into strips blocks or setts and laid as lawn edging. You will need to excavate long strips around your lawn and lay a compactable sub-base. Then you can lay your new edgings on a solid mortar base to a tight sting line. It is relatively easy to cut down paving using a grinder and a diamond grinding disc. Block paving
Block paving is not always the first product people think of when it comes to lawn edging. However, recent times have seen such a broad range of block paving products covering many styles. Some of which are particularly suited to lawn edging especially those with a 'cobble effect.' Like paving and brick these can be laid upon a strong mortar bed on top of a compacted base. Block pavers are typically square making them easy to lay in straight lines. Pathway kerb edgingPathway edging kerbs are long, thin edging kerbs about 1 metre in length and 150mm wide. These kerbs come in a wide variety of colours textures and styles. The standard concrete kerbs are often implemented in public sector landscaping to edge borders and surfacing. However there are many more decorative versions of these edgings on the market. These kerbs are perfect for laying edgings to lawns in perfectly straight lines over a long distance. Treated 6x2 timber
One of the fasted and most affordable ways to install straight lawn edgings is with 6x2 timbers. It is best to buy treated external grade timber for this which is normally sold at fencing stores. Lay them into linear trenches around the outside of your lawn to a tight string line. When they are perfectly straight they can be fixed to timber pegs driven into the ground. Timber sleeper edging
Sleepers are large sections of external grade timber traditionally used to base railway lines. Sleepers have also become widely utilised in external landscaping especially for retaining structures. As they are long and straight these can also be used to create robust lawn edgings. Sleepers can be set in horizontally along the edge of lawns to create a continuous edge.
Thank you for reading our article on the best lawn edging for straight lines. I will link to some other articles you may find useful below.
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Concrete is probably one of the most versatile building materials ever discovered by mankind.
It has the ability to be moulded into almost any shape or form adhering to any design. Concrete also has a high compressive strength making it perfect for load bearing structures and surfaces. It is no surprise that concrete garden edging has multiple applications within the landscaping sphere. In this article I will list and summarise some of the best concrete garden edging blocks for garden landscaping. Block paving
Block paving is a pre-cast concrete paving traditionally used to surface driveways and car-ports. These paving blocks lock together tightly laid upon a compacted bed of sharp sand. The extreme popularity of these pavers has led to a diverse array of paving products on the market. Block paving now comes in styles catering for contemporary, traditional and even historical themes. Such a broad range has also made them an extremely popular choice for garden edging. Block paving is now widely utilised for edging lawns, flower borders and pathways. Kerb edging stones
Kerb edging stones are large concrete edging blocks typically manufactured to accompany block paving. These robust kerbs are traditionally used to lay retaining edging to steps, low walls and beds. Kerb edging stones come in a broad variety of block shapes ranging from bull-nose to curved and chambered. Being large and bulky these concrete edgings can really inject some impact to your garden landscaping. They are particularly useful for creating gradual level changes to sloping ground. Concrete block edging
Concrete block is a typical building material and common in some form worldwide. These pre-cast concrete blocks are 'non-facing' meaning they will be clad, tiled, rendered or painted. This gives them much versatility in terms of look and design style. Not only are concrete blocks relatively inexpensive they can be laid to any form. Blocks can easily be cut down to form curves and fit into any specification. This makes them extremely useful for creating concrete garden edging. Laid blocks can provide retaining features, borders and low wall landscape edging. Path edging kerbs
Path edging kerbs are long and narrow concrete edging kerbs designed to retain pathways and landscape surfaces. These concrete edgings typically come in a standard size of approximately 1m x 150mm x 50mm. However these edging kerbs can actually be utilised in a number of ways to provide robust edging. Most notably kerbs are used for retaining edges to hard standings and dividers between neighbouring surfaces. Path edging kerbs also come in more decorative products with patterning and differing colour tones. In-situ concrete garden edging
In-situ concrete simply means concrete mixed, laid and formed on site. Typically large concrete installations are formed this way, for example buildings and skate parks. However there is also a place for in-situ concrete when it comes to garden edging. Garden edgings can be formed in-situ using formwork or shuttering. This type of concrete garden edging is great for bespoke edging work and flowing designs. However, most in-situ concrete edgings will require a level of reinforcement and expansion added during construction.
Thank you for reading our article on the best concrete garden edging blocks.
Below I will link to some of our other articles you may find relevant. If you require fencing or gate post installation do not hesitate to contact us. Based in Amersham we undertake a wide range of garden landscape projects. Our landscaping services include; brickwork, paving, pathways, edging installation, fencing, drainage systems, landscape design, garden clearances, new lawns garden re-levelling, ponds, wildlife gardens and gravel installation. We cover most of Buckinghamshire including Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire and the local regions of Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Chesham, Chalfont Great Missenden, Gerrards cross, High Wycombe & Tring
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Installing gate posts for wooden and garden gates is one of the most crucial stages of timber gate installation.
As timber is a natural product it is susceptible to varying moisture content and seasonal movement. Consequently installing gate posts correctly is crucial to avoid excessive gapping and jamming. In this article I will not only explain how to install timber gate posts step by step. I will also describe measures and tips to avoid some of the pit falls of gate post installation. In this article I will include step by step pictures of recent gate posts I have installed. Tools you will need
Shopping list
How to install wooden gate posts step by step
Step 1: Setting up your line
Set up a string line or long and straight piece of timber across your gate line. This will enable you to mark out, excavate and set in your gate posts straight. Step 2: Mark out your holes
At this point it is a good idea to cut a piece of timber to the exact width of your gate with an extra 3mm at each end. For example if your gate is 900mm wide cut your timber squarely at 906mm. Now mark out the centre point of your gate posts and mark out a circle around the centre. The radius from the centre should be about 130mm all the way round. The best way to mark out your post holes is with line marker paint. Step 3: Excavate your post holes
Excavate your post holes so you have clean sides with a level bottom. You are aiming for a depth of around 600mm deep. This is best done with a digging bar and post hole diggers featured in the image below. Step 4: Check your post heights
Place your posts into your excavated post holes so you can check their heights. You want to make sure the posts are slightly higher that the gate when the gate is installed. Remember that it is custom procedure to elevate your gate off the ground by an inch or two. Step 5: Set in your first post
Place your first post into the first hole so there is a reasonable void around the post. It is good to set in posts to a string line so they are flush with the existing fence. When the post is in position fill the hole half full with water. Now empty the first bag of postcrete evenly around the hole. Using a long stick mix the dry mix with the water distributing it evenly around the post hole. Add more water if necessary and add the second bag, mix well until it forms a level mix. Set in posts with their sides as flush as possible, any angles could prevent gates from closing fully. As the post sets over the next 10 minutes check its vertical level so it remains in place. Step 6: Set in your second postSet in your second post using your gauge to make sure the correct distance is set for the gate. A good tip here is to screw a timber brace along the front line of your posts. Once the posts are screwed into position and level you can concrete them in more easily. Add your concrete making sure the posts distance and vertical level as you work. Step 7: Fix a spacer gauge
As posts are setting they can occasionally move slightly out of position. This can lead to a wider or tighter gate width than is optimum. As this issue typically affects the top of posts a spacer gauge can be installed while they set. This simply involves screwing a section of gravel board across the top of the gate posts. You can use your 906mm timber gauge to set the distance while you fix it into position. Step 8: Check your levels
Once your posts have been concreted, it is a good idea to check their vertical levels. Go around your posts with a spirit level and make sure they are as plumb as possible. You have now completed your fence posts and ready to hang your gate. FAQ’S
How do you fit a wooden gate post?
Wooden gate posts should be a minimum thickness of 100mm and set into concrete 600mm deep into the ground. You should use fence posts treated for outdoor use but should also water proof the bottom 600mm. This can be brushed on with a wood preservative to prevent rot at the soil line. You should also only use the straightest timber posts possible and set them in as vertically level as possible. Should gate posts be set in concrete?
Yes gate posts need to be solid with no threat of movement. If fence posts have any movement they can lead to gates jamming or not closing properly. Posts should be concreted at least 600mm deep with at least 75mm (3 inches of concrete all the way round) How deep should a wooden fence post be?A wooden fence post should be well concreted into the ground about 600mm deep (2 feet). How many bags of postcrete per post?
You should add at least two 20kg bags of postcrete to concrete in a single post. How much water do you need to add to postcrete.
It depends upon how permeable the underlying ground is but aim for the hole to be half full. As a general rule two thirds of a bucket or 3 gallons is enough to hydrate two 20ky bags of postcrete. How do you line up a gate post?
The best way to line up a gate post with a fence line is with a tight string line. Set up the tight string along the line of the fence, and then set your post flush with it. The best way to set posts straight is fixing long straight sections of timber across posts. This also allows posts to set perfectly inline overnight with no threat of disturbance. How far apart should gate posts be?
A standard distance between gate posts is a standard gate distance of around 900mm. Any narrower than that and future access for certain things could be restricted. Any larger than a metre, could mean heavy gates and eventual bowing of posts.
Thank you for reading our article on how to install timber gate posts for wooden gates. Below I will link to some other articles you may find useful in your search.
If you require fencing or gate post installation do not hesitate to contact us. Based in Amersham we undertake a wide range of garden landscape projects. Our landscaping services include; brickwork, paving, pathways, edging installation, fencing, drainage systems, landscape design, garden clearances, new lawns garden re-levelling, ponds, wildlife gardens and gravel installation. We cover most of Buckinghamshire including Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire and the local regions of Amersham, Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Chesham, Chalfont Great Missenden, Gerrards cross, High Wycombe & Tring.
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Achieving the best looking lawn possible does not just rely upon a strict mowing regime. There are many things that go into the perfect lawn with good edging being a much understated factor. Edging can frame your lawn whilst also making mowing and trimming much easier. Selecting the best lawn edgings for mowing will result in no more edge trimming or strimming. In this article I will explain the typical attributes of the best lawn edging for effortless cutting. I will also list and summarise 8 of the best lawn edgings for easy mowing and maintenance. What is the best edging for making mowing easier?
The best lawn edgings for mowing allow you to mow edges reaching every blade of grass with no need for edge trimming. Edgings should be at least 60mm wide so mowers can hover over the edgings to capture every blade. The most effective edgings should also have a retaining and levelling function to your lawn. The best scenario is to install robust and level edgings before you lay your lawn. This way soil can be spread perfectly level to the top of the edgings. The result is a level lawn with no dips or bows leading to easier cutting and better drainage. The most effective edging for mowing should be retaining edging that holds your lawn securely in place. This will prevent loosing lawn to flower borders and scalping to edges. 8 Of the best lawn edgings for mowing
Brick on edge mow strips
Bricks are hardwearing materials with natural colour tones that work well in garden landscaping. When laid upon a compacted base and solid mortar bed they make perfect lawn edgings for mowing. These edgings can be set flush with an existing lawns level to create a seamless mowing edge. This is often referred to as a brick mow strip. Granite setts
Granite setts are robust cubes of granite utilised for a multitude of external applications. Historically Setts were used to surface streets, pavements and walkways which give testament to their durability. Granite setts are weather resistant with their light colours providing excellent contrast to garden lawns. These materials are a great way to lay straight or curved lawn edgings for perfect mowing. Paving mow strips
Standard concrete and natural stone paving is also a great edging material for lawns. Paving slabs can be cut down into strips, blocks or even setts to create visually appealing mow strips. These are most effective when laying a new lawn as you can spread topsoil to the top. This results in your turf being perfectly flush with your edgings providing the perfectly level mowing edge. Flush timber edging
Treated timber edgings laid flush with your lawn also make great lawn edgings for mowing. Timber edging is also much cheaper and faster to lay than masonry edging materials. If you want curved timber edging then treated gravel boards are probably the best option. These can be scored and persuaded to form organic curves and even circles. For straight timber mow edging treated 6x2 timber is normally the best option. Block pavers
Block paving is a standard concrete paving material typically used for driveways. However, its popularity has led to an explosion of various different types, textures, colours and styles. This has made block paving a much more interesting option for creating lawn mow edgings. These blocks can be laid to the perimeter of your lawn on a well compacted sub-base and mortar bed. Concrete mow strip edging
When it comes to concrete mow strip edging there are many products available on the market. These typically consist of concrete path or pc edgings which are around 1 metre long. At 150mm deep these can provide an effective retaining edge to lawns with a clean and modern feel. Concrete mow strips are typically concreted into position within a concrete haunch. The disadvantage with these is they are only 50mm thick; some mowers may not overhang enough to cut efficiently. Rubber Lawn edging
Rubber lawn edging comes in a range of products with popular examples including Flexi-border. I personally am never a fan of synthetic, plastic based, materials for landscaping but there are some advantages. These borders are very flexible and durable resulting in less chance of shrinking and cracking. These are also very easy to remove or move around as and when you need them. Flexible metal edgingFlexible metal edging has now become a very popular lawn edging material. This contemporary style edging very much fits into current modern styled gardens. These edgings make great mow strips but only when set back from vertical steps, borders and walls. In such scenarios the gap between vertical features can be filled with decorative gravels.
Thank you for reading my article on 8 of the best lawn edgings for mowing. Below I will link to some other articles you may also find useful.
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