Build a hoggin path

What is hoggin?

Hoggin is a a mix of gravel, sand and clay that binds firmly when compacted, yet allows water to drain through it. Not only does it look attractive but it's easy to maintain, just requiring occasional weeding. Hoggin can be bought from most builders merchants.

It's best suited to footpaths as it won't withstand the wear and tear of vehicle use.

What to do

Time needed

1 day

You will need

• shovel
• spade
• wheelbarrow
• vibrating roller or alternatively use a plank of wood and sledge hammer
• sand for marking out path
• flexible metal sheeting for the edging
• pegs to hold the sheeting in place
• hardcore
• hoggin

Step by step

• Once you have decided where you want your path to run, mark out the two edges using sand or lengths of hosepipe.
• Dig it out to about 15 - 20cm (6 to 8in) deep. This allows room for at least 10cm of hardcore and 5-10cm (2 to 4in) of hoggin, the proportions depend on how frequently the path will be used.
• Once dug out the path can then be edged using flexible metal sheeting. The advantage of this material is that it can be curved and bent into whatever shape is required.
• The sheets are held in place with metal pegs that are provided with the edging. Flexible metal edging for paths can be bought in various builders merchants and landscaping yards. A quick search on the internet should reveal a list of local suppliers.
• Along the bottom of the path, lay a good layer of hardcore, so that the water can drain away. The layer of hardcore should be about 10cm (4in) thick.
• On top of the hardcore, hoggin can be added. Make sure that about 2-3cm (1in) of hoggin is above ground level. This will enable it to be compacted down with a vibrating roller, so that it is flush with the metal edging.
• Use a vibrating roller to level the hoggin to the height of the metal edging or use a plank of wood placed across the path and hit with a sledge hammer.