Transform Your Backyard: Paver Pathway With Grass to Absorb Rainwater

At our house, we’ve always enjoyed spending time in the backyard, but we had a big problem: every time it rained, water would accumulate and the ground would erode easily. Instead of being a place for relaxation and play, the space would turn into a puddle that was hard to enjoy.

Looking for a practical and sustainable solution that we could build as a family, we decided to design a long pathway with pavers surrounded by grass. The idea was simple but very effective: the pavers allow for comfortable and organized walking, while the grass absorbs excess rainwater, preventing both erosion and annoying flooding.

The result not only solved the problem but also transformed the backyard into a more beautiful, functional, and natural space. 🌿 Additionally, it was a very special family experience, as we worked together on every step of the process.

In this instructable, I want to share how we did it, the materials we used, and the tips we learned along the way, so anyone can apply this solution in their own outdoor space.

Materials and Tools

To build the pathway with pavers and grass around it, we used simple and easy-to-find materials.

Main Materials

1. Pavers → The design depends on your preference (at home we made two paths with different styles).
2. Sand → Used to level and support the pavers.
3. Grass seeds or plugs → I used San Agustin grass plugs that a friend gave me. This method ensures faster and more reliable growth, as you plant the grass directly.
4. Special pavement paint → Provides extra protection and a better finish.

Tools Needed

1. Shovel → For digging and preparing the ground.
2. Level → Ensures the pavers are even.
3. String (piola) → Helps mark a straight path.

Note: Except for the pavers, paint, and grass, most of the tools are commonly found at home, making this project very accessible.

Before starting the pathway construction, it’s important to plan and organize everything you’ll need:

a) Choose the pavers

1. Define the design and style that you like most for your outdoor space.
2. Measure the length and width of the path to calculate how many pavers you’ll need.
3. Make sure you know the dimensions of each paver to buy the right amount.

b) Select the grass

1. Choose a grass variety suitable for your local climate.
2. Consider:
3. Water requirements (some varieties need more watering than others).
4. Texture (some are soft, others rough).
5. Resistance to sun, shade, or occasional foot traffic.
6. Maintenance (how often it needs mowing and care).
7. In my case, I used San Agustin grass plugs, which allowed me to plant the grass directly, ensuring faster and more even growth.

c) Check tools and safety

1. In addition to the shovel, level, and string, make sure you have:
2. Comfortable and protective clothing.
3. Sturdy gloves.
4. Suitable footwear for working in the yard.

d) Choose the pavement paint color

1. This step is optional but can give personality and functionality to the path.
2. I chose yellow paint, because the little ones like it and it also helps as a guide at night. One of the paths is used for guiding the car into the house, and the color is very helpful at night (pavement paint has a reflective effect).

With the space defined and materials ready, it’s time to prepare the ground for the pavers:

a) Mark the path

1. Place stakes along the planned path.
2. Tie string between the stakes to create a straight (or curved) line according to your design.
3. Use the level to ensure the guide is even.

b) Dig the ground

1. Begin digging along the marked path.
2. The depth should match the height of the pavers.
3. Ensure the pavers do not stick out too much to prevent tripping hazards.
4. Adjust the depth according to the terrain’s irregularities.
5. Frequently check with the level to ensure the base is even.

💡 Tip: Take your time in this step; properly preparing the ground ensures the pavers are stable, secure, and have a clean finish.

Now that the trench is ready, it’s time to start shaping the path:

a) Prepare the sand base

1. Place a thin layer of sand at the bottom of the trench.
2. It shouldn’t be too much, just enough so the pavers can sink slightly when placed.

b) Lay the pavers

1. Start placing the pavers side by side along the path.
2. Press each paver gently to settle it into the sand.
3. Continue until the entire path is complete.

c) Fill the gaps

1. You’ll notice small gaps between the pavers.
2. Cover the surface with more sand and sweep it into the gaps.
3. This helps lock the pavers in place.

💡 Tip: Treat this step as a relaxing activity, like putting together a puzzle. Take your time and enjoy the process.

⚠️ Caution: Pavers are heavy; wear gloves and protect yourself from injury.

With the pavers in place, we can give them a final finish using pavement paint:

a) Prepare the surface

1. Sweep the area to remove any remaining sand.
2. The surface should be clean and dry before painting.

b) Apply the paint

1. Apply the paint slowly, using as much as you need for each section.
2. Tools you can use:
3. Brush (ideal for detailed, handcrafted work).
4. Roller.
5. Pavement paint sprayer if available.
6. Go carefully to cover each paver, especially edges.

c) Drying and precautions

1. Pavement paints dry quickly, so you won’t need to block access for long.
2. Avoid walking on the pavers until the paint is fully dry for a durable finish.

💡 Tip: Enjoy this step as the final touch; this is where your path starts to stand out visually and gain personality.

Time to bring life to the area with grass:

a) Using seeds

1. Lightly loosen the soil.
2. Spread the seeds evenly.
3. Cover seeds lightly with soil.
4. Water gently and wait according to the instructions on the seed package.
5. Watch them grow!

b) Using plugs or grass pieces (like San Agustin)

1. Place each plant at a reasonable distance:
2. Too far apart → takes longer to cover the area.
3. Too close → covers faster but may affect growth.
4. Water well after planting.
5. Some plants may appear a little dry at first—don’t worry! With regular watering, they will revive and gradually cover the ground.

c) Initial watering

1. Water more frequently during the initial stage to keep the soil moist.
2. Adjust frequency if it’s the rainy season.
3. Once the grass is established, you can reduce watering according to the variety’s needs.
4. In my case, with San Agustin grass and the local climate, watering is only necessary at the start; afterward, the grass maintains itself.

💡 Tip: Cross your fingers and enjoy watching the grass grow—it’s very rewarding after all the hard work with the pavers.

Building a paver pathway with grass is hard work, but very fun and rewarding:

1. Involve the whole family and share moments together.
2. Seeing the backyard transform into a beautiful, functional, and natural space gives a great sense of accomplishment.
3. This project is not only aesthetic but also solves real problems like excess water and erosion, making your effort doubly valuable.

💡 Tip: Take a moment to admire your work, walk along the path, and enjoy the green space you helped create. Each paver and grass plug tells a story of your dedication!

This is the moment to personalize your space:

Decorating the pavers:

1. Draw figures, hopscotch patterns, or any design that inspires you.
2. Let your imagination run wild; every detail makes your path more fun and unique.
3. Prefer a simpler style? That’s perfectly fine too—sometimes less is more.

Plants around the path:

1. Plant roses or flowers along the edges to frame the path.
2. This highlights the green grass as a beautiful “carpet” around your design.

💡 Tip: Combine creativity with functionality. Decorative elements and plants not only beautify the space but also help define the path and protect the grass from foot traffic.

Thank you for following along! 🌿

I hope you enjoy recreating this project as much as I enjoyed creating and sharing it with you through this instructable.

💡 Final Tip: Take your time, have fun with every step, and remember that the most important part is to enjoy the process and the space you are transforming.