Wednesday, August 11, 2010

After The Rain

A few weeks ago, when heavy rain carried away a good portion of the mulch on the new steps and the soil surrounding the plants, Ken and I knew we needed to make changes in our landscaping plan. I was disappointed because I wanted the woodsy look of mulch, but it wasn't going to stay put. We took a trip to a home improvement center and discovered a totally new product ~ 16 x 16 inch "pavers" made of recycled rubber, 3/4 inch thick and formed to look like bricks. We left the railroad ties in place and put down a barrier [also made of recycled materials] to keep the soil off the steps. Ken was able to cut the "pavers" to fit with a utility knife. Many bags of sand [for the base] and hours of work later, we had steps that will hold up to the hardest rain. Last evening a thunderstorm moved through and heavy rain followed. This morning the ground was soaked, and the steps were still in place ~

We are a long way from finished with projects in the yard this year, but it feels good to have one area done...at least for now.

7 comments:

patti said...

Oh, MY!!! And we are begging for rain right now in the Midwest.

The big day is approaching, isn't it????

P

Anonymous said...

Looks fabulous! Great teamwork guys!

CaShThoMa said...

I'm impressed. Very professional results!

I agree that it feels so good to have a project finished, even when there are many more backed up and waiting.

Debra said...

It looks lovely, Sharon, just lovely! You should stand back and enjoy your handiwork! Sometimes, doing something with your hands, allows the heart that went into the product to look even better! Yours certainly does:)

Hugs,
Debbie

helen said...

Looks great -- kudos for using a recycled product. I enjoy projects like this. Makes you tired but the instant gratification of the new look...priceless. May your efforts hold up to the most fierce rains!

Carolynn Anctil said...

I think they look great!

One Woman's Journey - a journal being written from Woodhaven - her cottage in the woods. said...

Sharon, I saw these pavers and had thoughts of using them for a walk.
I would like stone - but the large pieces I see are very expensive.
Hoping to find an old home where they might be taking them up. Will do something next Spring.
I have spent a year of total creating back by the woods.