Garden walkways and paths. What you need to know to make your design successful.

A beautiful brick walkway by allentuck landscaping Rockville, MD

Walkways And Paths Are More Than Just A Means To An End

walkways and pathsThe main functions of walkways and paths is to get you from point A to point B. How they get you there is just the start of things. There are lots of things to consider when planning walkways and paths. Among them are material considerations, width, directness to the end and elevation changes.

Material Options For Walkway And Paths

Where the walkways and paths are located will help decide what material to use. Front walkways tend to be more formal. For these, flagstone, brick or pavers  are the most appropriate choices. Combinations of these materials both in shape, style and color can make for unique, one of a kind walkways and paths. If, however, the walkways and paths are located in the rear yard or side yard, one may opt to use these same materials or consider less formal materials such as natural steppers. walkways and pathsWhatever material is selected, it should compliment the architecture of the home and the existing hardscape features.

Width of Walkways and Paths

Just as the materials for front walkway tend to be on the more formal side, front walkways and paths should also be wide enough to allow two people to comfortably walk side by side. We recommend a minimum front walkway width to be at least 5’ wide. For secondary walkways and paths, 3’ wide is adequate.

Directness Of Walkways and Paths

How direct walkways are to getting to the end destination is simply dependent on how quickly you want people to get there. Sometimes, they say, the journey is half the fun. Straight line walkways and pathswalkways and paths maybe appropriate for getting to the driveway to the front door whereas meandering walkway and paths to get from the curb to the front door may be more enjoyable, especially if they wind through gardens with plants and features to enjoy along the way.

Elevation Changes in Walkways and Paths

The topography in our area is rarely flat, meaning that steps may be necessary in your walkways. Materials for steps usually are the same as for the walkways and paths but do not need to be. A little variation can make the steps a focal point and a place for transition. Consider mixing it up a little in order to make a more interesting set of steps.

No matter what you’re looking for in walkways and paths, the design experts at Allentuck Landscaping Company can help.

Remember, Allentuck Landscaping Co. is always here to help you design, install, construct and maintain your lawn and landscape. Give us a call!


Allentuck Landscaping Co.
is Your Residential Landscape Company

At Allentuck Landscaping Co., our mission is to create beautiful environments for people to enjoy. We see landscaping as a way to improve people’s lives.

The Allentuck Landscaping Co. team has been delighting homeowners in Maryland, Washington DC and Northern Virginia for over 28 years with our turnkey approach to landscape design, installation, construction and maintenance. Most companies try to serve many types of customers at the same time; homeowners, shopping centers, office buildings and the list goes on. At Allentuck Landscaping Co., we focus on one customer, you, the homeowner. We have a singular focus on bringing you the best landscape practices, the best customer service, and the best value for your home.

Services Provide – Master Landscape Plans, Complete Maintenance Programs, Plantings, Patios, Walkways, Retaining Walls, Water Features, Outdoor Lighting, Outdoor Kitchens, Trellises & Pergolas, Irrigation Systems, Drainage Solutions, Grading & Sodding. Fire Pits & Fire Places, Spring Clean Ups, Decks, Fences

Areas Served – Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Potomac, Rockville, North Potomac, Darnestown, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Damascus, Boyds, Clarksburg, Ijamsville, Urbana, Frederick and Washington DC.

 

What’s the Best Surface to Have Around a Pool?

Designing your dream pool is exciting—but don’t forget the space around it. The surface you choose matters more than you think. It affects how safe your pool area is. How comfortable it feels. And how much maintenance you’ll need to do. So, what’s the best surface to have around a pool? Whether you’re building a new pool or refreshing an old one, this guide will walk you through the best options available—helping you find the right fit for your home,

READ MORE »

The Gardening 3 Year Rule: What It Is and Why It Matters

You’ve planted. You’ve watered. You’ve dreamed of a lush, vibrant garden that turns heads and brings you joy every time you step outside.But after a year, things look… underwhelming. Sparse blooms. Thin growth. Disappointment creeping in. Relax. You’re not failing. Your garden is just following the Gardening 3 Year Rule. This simple but powerful idea explains how most plants behave over time—and why patience is one of your most valuable gardening tools. If you’re planning a new landscape or refreshing

READ MORE »

Top May Garden Tips: Helping Your Landscape Thrive in Late Spring

May is a magical time in the garden. Flowers are blooming, vegetables are growing, and everything seems to burst with life. As the weather warms up, your landscape needs regular care to stay healthy and vibrant. These Top May Garden Tips will help you keep your garden looking its best as spring transitions into summer. 1. Stay on Top of Weeding and Mulching With warm temperatures and sunny days, weeds can take over quickly. Weed Weekly: Regularly pull weeds before

READ MORE »

8 Best Low Maintenance Landscape Plants

Landscaping doesn’t have to mean constant pruning, watering, and worrying. In fact, choosing the best low maintenance landscape plants can save you time, money, and weekend headaches—while still making your yard look amazing. Whether you’re planting a new bed, refreshing an old one, or just want to spend less time doing yard work, these reliable plants deliver big beauty with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the top picks that thrive with less fuss. What Makes a Plant “Low Maintenance”? Low

READ MORE »

How Do I Fix Bad Drainage in My Yard?

Water should be a blessing for your yard — not a headache. But when every rainstorm leaves behind puddles, soggy spots, or even erosion, it’s a clear sign there’s a bigger issue. Bad drainage in my yard is something no homeowner wants to deal with, but the good news is, it’s fixable. With the right strategies, you can protect your landscape, your home, and your peace of mind. Let’s dive into exactly how to spot the problem, understand what’s causing

READ MORE »

Should You Aerate Your Lawn in the Spring?

Your lawn took a beating this winter. Soggy soil, heavy snow, kids and pets running across frozen turf — it all adds up to compacted soil and tired grass roots. As the weather warms in Montgomery County, many homeowners start asking: Should you aerate your lawn in the spring? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no — it depends on your grass type, the condition of your lawn, and what you’re hoping to achieve. Aeration is one of the

READ MORE »