Your front walk is the most important element of your outdoor foyer. So why not splurge on the high-end look of stone, which is sophisticated and low maintenance?

A flagstone walk formed of large irregular stone is a stylish approach to paving the way to your front door. And if you don't care for rock on the entry walk, what about on the garden path or another landscape path?

Now, while your garden is stripped to the essentials and you are assessing your garden's needs, ask yourself whether your outdoor space provides an interesting and pleasing structure. For those open to the idea of attaining some structure with stone, here are some things you should know.

Selection and cost

Dry-laid flagstone set on gravel and sand is an easier installation than setting stone in mortar. Large irregular pieces of stone are less costly and less formal than cut stone. Look for stone 2 inches thick. Check with local stone suppliers or search the Internet. Select from an assortment of rock types, colors and shapes. Some sources also can recommend a mason or contractor if you prefer writing a check over laying rock.

The planning

Begin the project with a rough sketch of ideas or use a hose or string to lay out the proposed path on the ground. Keep in mind that paths that accommodate two people walking abreast should be 4- to 6-feet wide. Flaring the walk at each end merges the stone path gracefully with the front steps, the drive or the street edge. Walk the proposed path and take in the views from both directions. Be sure to add plants, lighting and focal points that enhance the journey (from the car to the front door, if you are doing the front walk).

The work

Excavate the path to a depth of 8 inches, which provides a well-drained sub-base. Fill the entire trough with a 6-inch layer of crushed stone, level and water-in. Compact the crushed stone with a hand tamper or vibrating plate compactor. Both can be rented. Top off with a 1- to 2-inch layer of sand or screenings that will raise the walk surface to within an inch of the existing grade.

Position the largest stones at each end of the walk, placing the individual pieces together to create narrow, uneven joints. Use a 4-foot level to ensure evenness, and slightly slope the walk with the grade for proper drainage. (A rubber mallet is a great tool to help level individual stones, and a wide chisel can be used to trim your rock to fit in irregular spaces.)

The top of the flagstone walk should be roughly level with the existing grade to avoid potential lawn mower blade damage. Fill the space between the stones with mini river jacks or alternate with decorative stone 1/2 inch in diameter. Sweep and tamp in place. Water the path thoroughly to settle the rocks in the joints, adding additional stone to compensate for settling. Settling for the rock and stone usually takes awhile.

The payoff

Great bones -- as in structure and plants that provide an impact during the winter. That's the stuff of great gardens. A flagstone entry walk or garden path is a solid start. It makes a big impression on your guest and provides a sense of permanency and elegance to your home year round.

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