Work-free surfaces with paving and gravel

Hard surfaces need virtually no maintenance. They can be used in all sorts of creative ways in place of a lawn. For instance, you can create a courtyard garden enclosed by walls, a Mediterranean-style garden surrounded by evergreens, a minimalist Japanese-style garden, a walkthrough rock garden, a modern patio or a traditional, formal terrace.

Gravel
The quickest and easiest surface to lay yourself is gravel. It is also very versatile, making it ideal for use in a garden that you may want to alter later. You can plant through gravel that has been laid over mulch matting. Gravel also makes an ideal surface for a courtyard. Several sizes and colors are readily available from landscape supply companies.

Pavers
Once good foundations have been established, pavers are quick to lay. Point the cracks between them with mortar to prevent weeds getting a foothold. Pavers need not be dull. They are available in various shapes, sizes, colors and surface finishes, including some that resemble natural stone. The pavers can be laid in different patterns and combinations of types of finish for an unusual effect. Textured finishes are non-slip, but you should avoid deeply textured patterns because they trap soil, are difficult to clean, and encourage moss and algae.

River Stones
Although time-consuming to lay, rounded river stones are good for decorative detail in small areas such as between pavers or around a fountain or other feature. They are also useful in awkward corners and, because they are hard to walk on, for discouraging people from areas where you don't want them to go. For a successful low-maintenance finish, bed the stones in cement so that weeds are not able to grow up between them. Pebbles, which are smaller stones with rounded shapes, can also be used.

Bricks and Concrete Blocks
These take longer to lay than pavers because they are smaller, but a wide range of effects can be achieved from the colors and styles available. Old bricks look irregular and give a rustic appearance but, if you have a new house, use new bricks or small clay pavers of the same color as were used in the house. Bricks can be laid in traditional patterns, in a basket-weave or herringbone style, or in more adventurous designs, such as a sweeping arc. Concrete-block paving, available in a range of colors, is easy to lay on an 8cm layer of river sand over a firm base. Timber decking Wood will blend in naturally with any garden design, and is easier on the eye and more forgiving underfoot than paved surfaces. Either pressure-treated softwood or hardwood is used. Hardwood will last longer but costs at least three times as much. Timber decking is available in self-assembly kits, or you can hire a specialist contractor to do the job for you.

Decorative Finishes
Colored, moulded surfaces can be cast by specialist contractors who re-create traditional finishes, such as those of cobbles or natural stone. No cracks are left for weeds to colonize. The surface can be laid over existing paving.


Good foundations

Laying hard surfaces
Paving work takes time and skill so, unless you are keen on DIY, it is advisable to employ a contractor. Surfaces that take the weight of garden furniture or equipment, or are frequently walked over, need proper foundations - at least 10cm of road base well packed down (best done with a hired plate compactor). Patios should slope slightly so that rainwater runs off them away from the house.