Question
hello, i am replacing a grass path with brick.  i understand the process - gravel, tamp, sand, brick....my question is about the edging.  i currently have the common plastic garden edging down and wish to maintain the same shape.  can this edging be used successfully even if it doesn't go as deep as the gravel?  second, i want an informal path,  can i leave a larger space between the bricks and fill in with sand  or will the bricks shift if they are not tight together? Thank you in advance. Liz

Answer
Generally plastic landscape type edging will not maintain a straight edge over time. Steel or heavy duty plastic edging made for pavers is what you need. Search "paver edging" in quotes on the Internet. You'll find plenty of styles to choose from and vendors.

As for gaps, large gaps are fine but yes they lead to movement over time. Consider using polymeric sand. Search this on the Internet as well to learn all you want.
http://www.groundtradesxchange.com/pavers/polymeric_sand.htm


Best of Luck

Sean Murphy
www.amenityarchitects.com