Walkway materials vary as to cost, longevity and ease of installation. Natural stone pavers, such as flagstone, may be costly, but they are easy to put in place. Poured concrete is one of the least expensive permanent walkway materials, but preparing the site for concrete is labor-intensive and finishing fresh concrete may be difficult. Hardwood mulch is both inexpensive and easy to install, but it will need replacing or top-dressing at regular intervals.
Since a front yard walkway ties visually to your house, use materials that complement your home’s exterior style. In addition to the paving material, you may need other materials to complete the walkway installation. Solid materials such as brick, flagstone and concrete paving blocks can be set in either concrete or sand. When using loose walkway material such as mulch, you will need edging material to help define the edge of the walkway. Make sure your walkway material is rated for outdoor use and is thick enough to withstand heavy weight without cracking.
Mark out your planned front yard walkway with wooden stakes, then walk down the proposed path. Go to the front of your house and look at the path to make sure you’re getting the look you’re after. Adjust the stakes until the walkway is where and how you want it. Next, remove the debris from the path, including existing grass, stones or bushes. Excavate the pathway several inches to allow for the installation of a bed of gravel or sand if required.