From Concrete to Comfort: A Guide to Chipping Your Outdoor Space

Transforming a Concrete Area with Wood Chips: A Step-by-Step Guide

Do you have a concrete area at the side of your house that’s seen better days? Perhaps it’s cracked, uneven, and has become an unwelcome habitat for weeds and grass. You’re not alone! Many homeowners face this issue, and thankfully, there’s a simple and attractive solution: transforming the space with wood chips.

This guide will walk you through the process, offering practical advice and addressing common questions, such as the use of weed membranes, to help you achieve a beautiful and low-maintenance area.

1. Assessing the Area and Planning

Before you start, take a good look at the concrete area. Note the size, the extent of any damage (cracks, broken sections), and the types of weeds and grass present. Consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Do you envision a natural, rustic look, or something more contemporary?

• Measure the area: Knowing the square footage will help you determine the amount of wood chips and other materials you’ll need.
• Consider drainage: Ensure the area drains properly. Standing water can lead to problems with both the concrete and the wood chips.
• Choose your wood chips: Different types of wood chips offer varying aesthetics and longevity. Hardwood chips tend to last longer than softwood chips, but they can also be more expensive.

2. Preparing the Concrete Surface

This is the crucial step for a successful transformation. It’s all about creating a clean, weed-free base.

• Remove existing vegetation: This might be the most labor-intensive part. You’ll need to get rid of any grass, weeds, or other plants currently growing in the area. You can do this by hand (weeding tools), using a hoe to scrape it out or using a chemical approach, such as a herbicide. For a natural solution, consider using boiling water or a vinegar solution to kill weeds.
• Clean the concrete: Once the vegetation is gone, thoroughly clean the concrete. Use a stiff brush and soapy water to remove any dirt, debris, or algae. Rinse well and allow the concrete to dry completely.
• Address cracks and damage: Fill any cracks or broken sections in the concrete with a concrete patching compound. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and curing time. This step will not only improve the appearance but also help prevent the wood chips from settling into uneven areas.

3. The Weed Membrane: To Use or Not to Use?

This is a common question, and the answer depends on your specific situation and preferences.

• What is a weed membrane? A weed membrane (also known as landscape fabric) is a porous material that allows water and air to pass through while blocking sunlight, preventing weeds from growing.
• When to use a weed membrane: Generally, a weed membrane is recommended if you want to minimize weed growth and reduce the need for future maintenance. If your concrete is badly cracked or has gaps, a membrane can be very beneficial. It’s also a good idea if you have persistent weed problems.
• How to install a weed membrane:
  1. Prepare the surface: Ensure the concrete is clean and smooth.
  2. Lay the membrane: Unroll the membrane over the entire area, overlapping the edges by at least 6 inches. For larger areas, you might need to use multiple pieces of membrane, overlapping them to ensure full coverage.
  3. Secure the membrane: Use landscape staples or pins to secure the membrane to the concrete. This will prevent it from shifting or blowing away.
  4. Cut around obstacles: Cut holes in the membrane to accommodate any existing structures, such as pipes or drains.
• When you might skip the weed membrane: If the concrete surface is in good condition and you’re diligent about removing any weeds that do appear, you might choose to skip the membrane. This can save you time and money.
• Alternatives to a weed membrane: Some gardeners opt for layers of cardboard or newspaper under the wood chips as a more eco-friendly alternative to the membrane. However, these materials break down over time and may not be as effective at weed control.

4. Applying Weed Killer

Even if you use a weed membrane, it’s a good idea to treat the area with weed killer, especially if you’ve had problems with persistent weeds. This will help eradicate any remaining weed seeds or roots.

• Choose the right weed killer: Select a weed killer that is appropriate for the type of weeds you have and the surrounding environment. Consider an organic or natural weed killer. Ensure the product is safe for use on concrete.
• Apply according to instructions: Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. This will typically involve diluting the weed killer with water and spraying it onto the concrete surface.
• Allow time to work: Give the weed killer sufficient time to work, usually several days or weeks, before proceeding to the next step.

5. Adding the Wood Chips

This is the final step, where you bring the area to life.

• Calculate the amount of wood chips: A depth of 3-4 inches is usually recommended for wood chips. Use the square footage of your area to calculate the volume of chips needed. Many online calculators can help with this.
• Spread the wood chips: Use a wheelbarrow and shovel to spread the wood chips evenly over the prepared area, covering the weed membrane (if you used one) or the clean concrete surface.
• Level the chips: Use a rake to level the wood chips, ensuring an even depth and coverage. This will create a visually appealing and functional surface.

6. Maintaining Your Wood-Chipped Area

While wood chips are relatively low-maintenance, they do require some upkeep to keep the area looking its best.

• Weed control: Despite your best efforts, some weeds may still appear. Regularly inspect the area and remove any weeds as soon as they appear.
• Top up the chips: Over time, the wood chips will decompose and settle. You’ll need to add more chips periodically to maintain the desired depth.
• Prevent contamination: Avoid planting directly into the wood chips, as this can lead to problems with drainage and root development. If you want to add plants, consider using raised beds or containers.
• Dealing with moss: In shaded or damp areas, moss can sometimes grow on wood chips. If this occurs, you can use a moss killer or simply rake the moss away.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Revitalized Space

By following these steps, you can transform a neglected concrete area into a beautiful and functional space. Whether you’re looking to create a natural pathway, a low-maintenance garden bed, or simply enhance the aesthetics of your property, wood chips offer a versatile and cost-effective solution. Embrace the beauty of nature and enjoy your newly revitalized outdoor space!