Raise and level surface

[mthomas]

Hi all,

I’m working on a garden project and could really use some advice.

I have a small, low-lying area next to a paved path that I want to raise and level before covering it with plum slate chippings. It's a low footfall zone, so it doesn’t need to be super heavy-duty, but I want it to be stable and tidy in the long run.

Here’s what I’m dealing with:

The ground is currently uneven and lower than the surrounding path.

I don’t plan to plant anything — just want to lay slate chippings on top.

I’ll be using a weed membrane underneath the slate.

I was planning to raise the area by about 5–6 cm.

I was originally going to use Dandy’s Topdressing Sand and Soil Mix (70/30), but it’s currently out of stock. So I’m exploring alternatives and wondering:

1. Would Dandy’s TurfSand Mix be a good alternative for this purpose?

2. Or should I create my own 70/30 mix using sharp sand and topsoil?

3. Are there other pre-mixed products people would recommend for this kind of job?

4. What would give me the best long-term stability under slate in a low-traffic garden area?

Any suggestions, product recommendations, or lessons learned from similar projects would be massively appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

 

[Sean Regan]

Hi and welcome!

I'd use hardcore, it can be bought in different sizes.

 

[mthomas]

Cheers Sean do you mean hardcore gravel ?

 

[Sean Regan]

Cheers Sean do you mean hardcore gravel ?

Yes, it will drain well and nothing should grow up through your membrane.
But it can be hard to work out how much you will need.