Wonky path - remove slabs or not

[toodleloohey]

We've into a new house that needs a full overhaul so funds are tight.

The garden is very neglected with a paving slab path which is completely wonky.

As a quick fix to make it safer I was thinking to gravel it. But do we remove slabs first or gravel straight over the top of them?

remove slabs

Amazing, thanks 😄

Hard to tell how they're fixed in but on our path I pulled the slabs up re-levelled the earth underneath then lay them back flat!

Do this!

Although looking at it again are they massive tree roots pushing it up?

Remove the slabs they're dangerous. As a quick fix lay some gravel.
Buy plenty, you'll need more than you think you need.

Yes some huge tree roots have lifted up the slabs. Only had a tiny back yard before so all new diy skills here.

Agree - this is the answer

gravel is money. I'd start by working out those roots because they will always mess with the path. I'd take them out if dead, level out the ground and replace the path. That's all free and not too hard. If alive then I decide if I preferred the tree or the path. Maybe consider cutting the roots, but it might only give temporary solution and perhaps bad for the tree.

Thanks all. The tree with the huge roots has been cut down. Just the stump and roots left.

There isn't actually anything keeping the slabs in place, they all just lift up with compressed soil underneath.

Laying slabs or gravel directly on soil isn't ideal. Ideally you'd build the path properly which would involve constructing a sub base. The internet has lots of guides.

You'll get something usable if you saw out the roots, level the soil and replace the slabs. The slabs will move about over time. You can do it properly at a later date if you want.

Yes @torqrench that's what we'll probably do. Level it out for now so no one breaks their neck. And I can decide to do something more practical and pretty later.

@toodleloohey as someone looking at a fixer upper I’m now curious as to what your ‘complete overhaul’ entails…

We finished it! Back breaking and took ages but we’re happy with it. Might add some stepping stones later.

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Good job

Next task🙃
Get a massive wood drill bit and a battery drill and every time you pop down the garden add a new hole into your bug hotel🐝

Great idea!