How to Master the Art of Driveway Edging

Lining your driveway can add aesthetic appeal and help protect it from damage, whether it is made from concrete, asphalt, brick, or gravel. Installing pavers or stones along each side is an easy way to increase curbside appeal and make your home stand out.

Practice with a Garden or Flowerbed

Driveway edging can be a successful do-it-yourself project, but you may want to practice first! Experiment first by building a short retaining wall for a flowerbed. Make sure the area has a distinct edge and that the surrounding ground is tightly packed. Whether you are working in a straight line or along a curve, make sure your materials of choice will either interlock or fit snugly together. Once you feel comfortable, start making preparations for the bigger project.

Gather Materials

Decide whether you want your edging to stay at the level of the drive or, more commonly, rise a few inches above it. Measure the length, doubling it if you want to use two rows on each side. Possible materials include brick, stone, Belgian block, and more in a myriad of sizes, colors, and patterns. Another possibility is to use plastic edging, which can then be covered with dirt and filled in with plants such as hosta. Edging adds definition and character, so whatever you choose will have an eye-catching effect that is sure to add curbside appeal.

Create a Straight Edge

For this point, there are two factors at play. Your driveway must have a flat edge so that paving stones can lay flush against it, and the ground must be even alongside the drive so that the stones lay flat and level. The flat edge of the driveway must be perpendicular to the ground, and you may need to create that 90-degree angle using a cut-off saw. A saw on wheels, intended for this use, will be easiest to handle. Be sure to ask an experienced friend or professional for this part of the process if you have any doubts.

Installing Blocks or Pavers

The process of installing pavers can be time-consuming, but it will be well worth it in the end. To ensure the pavers will be even, dig out a space wide enough for each stone the entire length of the drive. The next step involves cement and so should be done in smaller increments, such as a few feet. Tap down the dirt and add about an inch of cement over it, and then quickly place the pavers into position. Add some additional cement behind each block to help keep it in place. After placing all stones, you can go back and fill in that side of each block with dirt and grass seed, plants, or decorative stones. This process will give your lawn an instant facelift, adding distinction and character to your home.