easy diy No Dig Border *2020 UPDATE*

[@CitizenKate]

Followed your link to this updated video, and just wanted to let your recent viewers know I built a border in 2017 with some smaller Belgian pavers using this technique, and after 4 winters with lows around -9 to -17 deg. F, my border still looks just like when I first built it. Every single block is still exactly where I laid it. (Except for a few my fencing contractors busted out to replace a wood fence.)

[@maxpatch67]

Thank you for your comment, CitizenKate. Fantastic!! I'm so glad to hear this!!

[@johnstonmalachy4635]

Lurgan has gone to shit from the IRS stopped the good work they were doing a lot fuck head need to be thanking out aasp🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪👍👍👍

[@patl2699]

Thank you so much

[@patl2699]

Ty

[@realbryanc]

Glad to know it held up. I've watched a couple different videos on making borders and this one is the I think I'll follow. I was worried how it would hold up over time.

[@TheRussdog64]

Awesome video! I've spent days trying to figure out how I want to tackle my entire homes old landscaping replacement and now I found it - thanks again

[@maxpatch67]

Awesome!! You won't regret making this border. Thanks for the comment, TheRussdog64!!!

[@jeannetterowden6423]

I just finished my no dig border, 50 ft, and I am very happy with the results. I am 81 and can't even lift a 50 lb. sack of Quickrete, but I figured out how to slip it from my car into my wheelbarrow. I left it in the wheelbarrow, slit open the top, and used a #3 can to scoop it out. Once I got the weight down to about 10 lbs, I could lift it up and pour the rest out. I made sure my bricks were all even using a board on top, and level sideways and it really looks professional. Thanks for the great instructions.

[@maxpatch67]

Whoa, Jeanette!!!! I am super impressed!! Wow!!!! I hope you are already recognizing the advantages of this border over any you have had in the past. You work has really paid off!! Hey, if want to share some photos of your project, I'd love to see it and post it on my website www.timvogelaar.com/Easy-diy-no-dig-border. If you want, you can just email the pix to [e-mail]. Jeannette, thank you for this inspirational comment!!!!

[@Neyobe]

Jeanette good for you!! That’s amazing!!

[@ghhm2705]

@Jeannette Rowden , you’re an inspiration! Thank you!!

[@cherylwright9408]

Jeannette YOU GO GIRL ! Great job ! I want to try this !

[@sira451]

Jeannette Rowden you are my hero!! I am a single senior and want to do as much as I can without hiring someone (too expensive). I'm going to try your method of slipping the bag of Quickrete into my wheelbarrow. Now all I need is an Iron Man body suit to do the rest!! 😅😅 I'll take my time as I have a very bad back. It's always great to hear from someone who took on this type of project at our age! Thank you for your comment!!

[@razamohammadqaisar]

Thanks much. It looks easy doable. I hope this is easy as it appears. Liked this video.

[@maxpatch67]

This border solves many problems with other types of borders and works exactly as shown!! Thanks for the comment, Mohammad, and have a great day!!

[@DiscoCatsMeow]

If you ever sell your house won't the next owners be surprised when they go to move a brick?😊 It does look amazing though!

[@marcirobins5144]

Becky Rey You buy it you can break it or keep it!

[@jeanbean1390]

As the next owner in this concrete situation, I've cursed the previous owner many times. 😡

[@debbieparker4612]

Big no on using concrete!

[@sarahwamsley6111]

This is my concern too--or, if you as the owner want to change/update/add to landscaping area and are stuck with the headache of removing concrete! Would sand be an alternative here??

[@heidimusick7981]

@@sarahwamsley6111 He did it to also help prevent weeds and sand wont prevent weeds

[@omaha1361]

You can do this minus the concrete simply put down your edging make sure your ground is tamped and hard then lay your blocks. There is no need for the concrete

[@maxpatch67]

You can do it without it, but here is why it's best to use cement. The cement provides four major functions in this border technique 1. Height(for looks) 2. Keeps the stones straight/aligned over time 3. Stability/strength 4. Weed barrier(the extra width is nearly impenetrable to aggressive weeds and grasses(Bermuda Grass) that we have here in Nashville.

[@doncooper4729]

Why is the width of concrete so wide? Is this part of the engineering to maintain the structure? Can is be narrower?

[@heatherrosenberry4078]

I would also like to know this!

[@maxpatch67]

The width of the concrete is about one foot deep to create a substantial grass and weed barrier. Here in Nashville, we have Bermuda Grass that is very aggressive and it sends out shoots both above and below the ground and this extra width goes a long way in controlling it. So, yes, if you don't think you need that, then you could make yours however narrow you want. Great question, Don, and thanks for asking!

[@jimmys511]

If I wanted to go 2nor 3 blocks high can I use that same cement as a mortar for the blocks? Or do you recommend using construction adhesive I’ve been seeing this lately

[@maxpatch67]

Yes, landscaping block adhesive is what you would use. Honestly, I don't think this border would look good built up with 2 or 3 layers high because you aren't using a levelling process so this really throws off the border as it gets higher. If you want a little wall, you should use a different and more traditional wall building technique. I hope this helps.

[@gabrielaenriquez8675]

I really love this, is there any extra steps and I would have to do if I choose to double the bricks.0

[@maxpatch67]

Just use landscaping block adhesive between your layers. I'd love to see your finished pix.....if you want to email them to me, it's [e-mail] Have a great day!!

[@leticiavallejo7914]

Max can I put landscaping fabric before I sprinkle the concrete? I don't want weeds within my plant flower beds.

[@maxpatch67]

Yes, you can, Leticia, however, I don't recommend using landscaping fabric for any landscaping area because in my experience, weeds grow right through and on top of the best of fabrics so I don't use them any more. Here is a technique I do recommend, though: studio.kzbin.infoHIWDPlaB6wY/edit. I hope this helps. Have a great day, Leticia!!

[@shaneryan6307]

Great video!! Could you do do this to line a gravel driveway? And besides mulch, what could you put down to cover the left over concrete? Would regular dirt and grass seed also work?

[@maxpatch67]

Yes, this technique is super flexible and adaptable. Just don't build it expecting to drive on it.

[@spade749]

Can I use paver sand instead of concrete for this? I'm close to the impervious surface limit of my HOA and I don't want to push it.

[@maxpatch67]

No, it would be better to choose some other border than this one if you don't want to use the concrete. The cement is at the center of its features of long-lasting stabilty, and as an amazing weed barrier that is impenatrable. Let me know if I can help you any more, spade749. Have a great day!!

[@theregoshad7178]

How do you allow for drainage? I wanted to use the black plastic instead of the fabric because I do not want plants where I am doing the work

[@maxpatch67]

Usually, I run a black corrugated pipe out, under the ground to a box in the yard where the water can spill out from. If I'm running it out very far, use white pvc pipe through the ground instead so the flow rate is improved. If you have any more questions, I can give you more detail on that. I hope this helps. Have a great day, Anthony.

[@Jai-i3v]

Will the concrete make this hard to dismantle? I like to change things every year or two. Can this be done without the concrete?

[@maxpatch67]

You'll probably want to use another method since you want to move your border around pretty often. This method is really dependant on this exact concrete product being used and any substitutes takes away it's main attributes. Please let me know if I can help you any more, Jai.

[@Jai-i3v]

@@maxpatch67 Than k you

[@TCT-Walt.B]

Do you have any border, no-dig recommendations for landscaping that has a gradual slope around the house and detached garage?

[@maxpatch67]

Hey, Walt! There are so many variables to consider such as rainfall amounts, light, soil type and size so I can't really recommend anything worthwhile to you in that area without knowing a lot more about your specific situation. This border would work perfect, though, in the situation you are describing.

[@michelleeckert1763]

How many bags of cement did you use and how many feet was the area you did? I want to do something similar and it’s 40 feet long area by 4 feet on the ends. Thank you for your help, this video is just what I needed as this is my first time doing a project like this.

[@maxpatch67]

Oh good! I's so glad you found this video. This technique solves many problems people have had with different borders. Each bag of concrete mix works for about 5 linear feet so you would need 10. Get one or 2 extra, though, just in case. Its never fun to run out of supplies during a project. Have a great day, Michelle!!

[@michelleeckert1763]

@@maxpatch67 thank you so much for your help!! I have never done any type of landscaping work and I was to the point I was thinking of hiring someone to do it, but after finding your video, I feel a lot more confident I can pull it off. What I want to do is use decorative stones to fill the front area of our home and use this for the border around it. I did see similar rocks that you used but I felt they were a little bigger for the area we have so I went with ones that are a little smaller and think they will work perfectly! I’m so excited to get started. I sincerely appreciate your help and again thank you so much for sharing this video, I’m sure you have helped so many people save so much money, time, and hard work with this and I can’t thank you enough! I will keep you posted and if possible or share a before and after picture or video! Take care!

[@maxpatch67]

Michelle, you are too kind. Thank you so much for this thoughtful comment. I really appreciate you taking the time to leave this comment. It sounds like you are a very visual person like I am and you want it to look good. I think you made a good choice using the smaller stones for the smaller area. I would do that too if I were you. If you get it finished, I'd love it if you could send me before and after pix that I can share on my website to share with others. My email is [e-mail].

[@michelleeckert1763]

@@maxpatch67 I will definitely send you before and after pictures! The before won’t be very pretty at all, but I’m hoping I do a good job with this. And yes, you are correct, I’m a perfectionist or so I’m told, I want it to look perfect and it will mean so much more to me if I can say “I actually did this!”. I’ve been getting braver with diy’s lately, I painted our entire home inside last year, first time for me. It took me awhile as I love painting but I get tired of doing it, but it got done and I was so proud of it. So I’m hoping this will be the same scenario. Again, thank you and I will send you pics once it is complete. 😊

[@maxpatch67]

Awesome. This is the right border for you because it is going to stay perfect looking for you forever because of you using this technique and it will also help a lot with weed control by helping keep things out of your landscaping area. Here is a really good mulching technique that I highly recommend since you want to make things very nice and stay nice: studio.kzbin.infoHIWDPlaB6wY/analytics/tab-overview/period-default This goes a LONG way for weed control.

[@fortnb]

Wonder how it would look if the block isn’t level? Mine has a slope

[@maxpatch67]

I think this border looks great on a slope or even if the ground is going up or down some. I think it makes the line more interesting and sculptural. The border is very strong and reliable on slopes as well.

[@fortnb]

maxpatch67 I’m gonna give it a try thanks

[@maxpatch67]

@@fortnb My pleasure, fortnb!!!

[@michelleflynn-brown8904]

Do you advise against adding a second row of blocks?

[@maxpatch67]

Michelle, I have not made a second layer on this type of border because I don't know if it would look that good and the difficulty level is raised some because you would mix up and use a traditional mortar between the layers. Even, though, it involves more work, I would highly recommend digging out the old dirt and mulch out of your area so the level is dropped enough so that there is plenty of room for the mulch to sit in there without spilling over. Also, the same thing can be accomplished by building your border out further so the dirt can slope down to the level of the bottom of the blocks and also have room for mulch. I hope this helps.

[@EurocatGames]

Will this same procedure work for laying a no dig walkway with square or rectangular pavers? Obviously you'd have to do a little backfill or dirt removal to make it level though. If not, what would be the roadblock(s)?

[@maxpatch67]

Yes, it should work for your walkway idea. I did that in my front yard. So what is your roadblock question about?

[@EurocatGames]

@@maxpatch67 sorry, I was asking if there were any roadblocks to the project that I was thinking about doing. You answered my question and thanks!

[@arthurhardison466]

Quikrete is what masons call cheaters😂😂

[@ashliburton-wade8863]

I love how simple this is and how you got straight to the point an broke it down step by step!! No long drawn out talking just straight to business awesome video and work 👍👏🏽

[@maxpatch67]

Thanks so much for that compliment!! As a former teacher of 32 years, maybe I’m using my presentation skills👍 like in my classroom.

[@Joselitosinc]

My wife and I did this today. Your video was so helpful. Our border came looking better than we had hoped. Adding the curves was a great tip. The best thing about this is how quick it was. We finished a 20 foot border in a little over an hour.

[@maxpatch67]

Jose, I'm really glad to hear this! I'm so excited for you!! I have website where I'm posting pix of viewers finished borders and wondered if you mind sending me some pix! The website is: www.timvogelaar.com/Easy-diy-no-dig-border. If you want to send me pix, you can send them to [e-mail]. Thank you for taking the time to send me this comment, Jose!

[@nickymooney9424]

Just finished this ! I’m so grateful for this video. I completed it all by little old self. I wish I could share a picture here. I even split a rock for a perfect end on a piece that was short coming up to the end. I felt so empowered from this little project. Next step will be trying a fire pit spot. My husband is worried he will come home one day to a full on moat surrounding the house 🤣. Thank you for this!

[@fabisottomaior]

Me and my husband just don’t know anything about gardening, I mean we are really awful doing anything related to that. But I saw this video and thought to myself “It looks like something we can do!”. And we just finally finished our landscaping (in two days) and it looks GREAT! I'm so thankful for this video! And thank you for sharing this to us!

[@maxpatch67]

Wow, Fabiana, I am so excited to hear this! Thank you for taking the time to leave this comment. You'll love it for many years.

[@allisonmartens2667]

I have two questions I'd like to hear your thoughts on. 1.) Do you find that the black plastic no-dig edging gets in the way when mowing? Does it get "chewed up"? Or can you mow right over it? 2.) How does the quick-krete affect the permanency? What if you want to change the border or remove it? Thank you!

[@mapex311]

1) No not at all I mow and weed wack right up against it. You don't mow over it because the blocks are right on top of it. 2) It's more or less meant to be permanent but if you want to remove, you can just whack the bricks with a sledgehammer and they will come loose easily. But the concrete will most likely be stuck to the bottom of the brick so not easily reusable. If you want to salvage the bricks you can put a piece of wood up against the brick before wacking it with the sledgehammer. But still will be a pita getting the concrete off the bottom.

[@kdsmclife7080]

Viewed your video several times, to get up my courage! Bought my supplies, recruited one helper, and in two days was able to transform my yard. My neighbors can't believe it! Just followed your steps. I did use cardboard instead of fabric for weed control -- we'll see how that works! I'd post some pics if I had permissions....big thanks for your video!!!! KZbin is making us all experts!

[@maxpatch67]

Whoa...way to go, Kd theVP!!!! I'm so glad you shared your story. I'm gathering some pix from people that have made this border to share with others soon and if you'd like to share your pix with me, you could send them to [e-mail]. That's my email associated with my photography website timvogelaar.com. I can't wait to see what you have made and thank you for the comment!

[@kdsmclife7080]

@@maxpatch67 Just sent my before and after pics!

[@maxpatch67]

@@kdsmclife7080 Whoa!!! Incredible!!! That beautiful curve you have going across the front! Nice work! No wonder the neighbors are noticing...it really looks perfect.

[@demetria7639]

Kd theVP I want to see

[@kdsmclife7080]

@@demetria7639 Max has them, so can post at his discretion...

[@iamtyrell586]

Tomorrow my wife and i are layin our border down, this video just made me rethink my life.

[@waldog38]

About to redo mine. I feel your pain🤣🤣🤣

[@maxpatch67]

Alright!! Well, did it turn out as planned, Tyrell?

[@iamtyrell586]

@@maxpatch67 it turned out great! while we didn’t use the method in the video for our front bed (my back hates me) im DEFINITELY using it when we border our tree. Nonetheless I’m super proud i actually did it instead of paying someone to.

[@iamtyrell586]

@@waldog38 😫oh bro the soreness! If i had come across this video just two days prior to us starting i would have, but to change our whole approach the night before we wanted to start would have just thrown us off.

[@LOCOSCLAN718]

Really 😂

[@rickeguitar9086]

This is perhaps the best border instruction video I have seen. It took away my inexperienced fears by providing a simple step by step process that was very logical and not intimidating. Thanks! Where I live all the professionals are over worked and unavailable for small jobs like mine. My neighbors will thank you!!

[@maxpatch67]

Ricke Guitar, I'm also a middle school art teacher so maybe that expains the thoughtful instructions. I'm so excited for you. You won't regret creating your super nice border. If you'd like to send me pix to my email [e-mail] then I could post them here: www.timvogelaar.com/Diy-no-dig-border-folder-of-galleries for others to see. Feel free to browse other viewers' work there. People have really improved their properties as you can see in the photos. Have a great day!

[@ByrdieBird]

Thank you so much!! This method is a single women’s dream😍👍👏👏👏

[@maxpatch67]

haha...alright, Birdie!!! Nice pic!

[@mrsllp1439]

Dream solution for a woman married to a non-gardening/non-handyman spouse. Getting materials tomorrow for our gardens that are desperately in need of a makeover

[@CORNHUSKMCGRAW]

And man..

[@rickjames3562]

@@mrsllp1439 so you're married to a woman? lmao

[@jackieesparra8986]

Totally!!

[@Presha85]

I’m going to get up very early and do this project. This will totally have my neighbors thinking I had a professional come in and do it.😁😁😁😁😁😁😁

[@maxpatch67]

Noice! Did get your materials home yet? Exciting!!!

[@eastsideozzy]

I can say that 5 years later its still 95% good! I had a few dip spots but it was from moving soil. I would highly recommend this route.

[@maxpatch67]

No way!!! Actually that's about what I expect. :) I'm so glad to hear that and I really appreciate the update....very encouraging for myself and to others reading these comments. Have a great day, @eastsideozzy!!!

[@Archaides]

@@maxpatch67 I'm considering using this method but as the above poster mentioned about moving soil, I worry how well it will hold up over time. North Texas here, my ground shifts a lot due to our clay soil. Not sure if using paver base and sand would be any better.

[@BocoGreenpeace]

@@Archaides Same concern here as I live where it snows and temp can drop below 0 Fahrenheit.

[@Spucky50]

Excellent. Also watched the original. I'm moving and taking a lot of perennials with me. New place needs borders, and this 71 year old grandma is going to DIY, thanks to you!

[@maxpatch67]

Awesome!! If your area is going to be pretty big, you may want to have the materials delivered from you local store. They can deliver everything together, making it easier for you to get to building without having to lug the supplies home from the store yourself. Have a great day!!

[@hl9391]

Just did this this weekend. If you’re not sure, it is CHEAP and EASY! I can’t believe how good it looks. I have never done any type of landscaping and seriously thought this might end in us having to call in professionals but it looks SO GOOD! I was doing it myself around some trees in our front yard yesterday and our neighbors kept stopping to tell us how good it looked. We now have one of the best looking front yards in the neighborhood. If you’re on the fence, do this. It will turn out great if you follow the directions.

[@maxpatch67]

H L, thank you for taking the time to leave this comment. I really appreciate the high recommendation. I'm so happy you love your new landscaping border. I know you will be proud of it for many, many years. If you are interested, I'd love it at some point if you would send me some pix to use on my website. You could send them to [e-mail]. Here is where I would post yours: www.timvogelaar.com/Easy-diy-no-dig-border. Thanks again!! I am very happy for you!!! :)

[@manaoharsam4211]

Like this one. Knows what he is doing. Told everything in a short time.

[@Quyllur1]

Thank you! I’m going to try this soon. My husband and I are the least handy people. We know NOTHING about landscaping or anything house/ yard related. We are learning! Thank you for an easy to follow video!

[@maxpatch67]

My pleasure. I promise this technique works and you won't regret trying it if you want a permanent, nice looking border.

[@nettesmith9278]

Thanks for sharing such a great video!! Quick question. When you want to take this up, how hard is it to remove the concrete?

[@maxpatch67]

This border is considered to be permanent. You would need to use a sledgehammer to bust it up for removal. Ony build this border if you are very sure of what you want for many years. I hope this helps. :)

[@msflowers5152]

Brilliant, I'm 56 with sore knees. You just saved me a lot of time. Thank you.

[@karenbrummond8507]

Omg, this gives me hope! Thank you! We have clay soil that’s always hard.

[@maxpatch67]

You've got it made with this border then, Karen!! Have a great day!!

[@Charri33]

Buying the supplies today to get started on this project! I’m excited and nervous at the same time

[@maxpatch67]

I understand! I'm excited for you!! Please let me know how it turns out!!

[@mackeydirk8643]

My wife and I just completed edging our large landscaping bed in the front yard of our house .....so easy and only took us 3 hours....looks great! Thanks a million!

[@maxpatch67]

Mackey, I'm so excited for you!! I know it must be a huge upgrade for you and you feel so accomplished when you see what you have done. Congratulations!! If you'd like so share your images, I'd love to post them on my webpage here: www.timvogelaar.com/Easy-diy-no-dig-border. You can mail them to [e-mail] if you'd like. Have a great day and thanks for your comment, Mackey!!!

[@Ohioknighty]

I watched your video and did this along my backyard fence last year. Even though the ground isn't level, it turned out wonderfully. I've received a ton of compliments. I have already set the edging in place to do the same thing around the beds at the front of the house as well as three tree rings. Thank you so much for your videos and the inspiration.

[@maxpatch67]

Thank you for this encouraging comment. I really appreciate you taking the time to send this to me. I hope you will send me some pix to use on the website when you do your front borders...I can't wait to see them!! www.timvogelaar.com/Easy-diy-no-dig-border

[@alymar177]

Do you have a video on the DIY of the actual flower bed? I have a similiar style and "before" condition and would love to see the steps that went into making that flower bed look so nice

[@maxpatch67]

I don't have any videos on landscape design. As an artist, I think there is quite a bit that goes into it. I consider it to be "making art with plants". In this case, I used a mix of existing plants being trimmed way back, moving some plants, and adding a little new to make a pleasing look. Thanks for your question, alymar177!

[@Jas-qm4cg]

maxpatch67 to add to the question. I cut all of the plants and bushes down that I did have in the flower bed already . But the roots are still there. Did you dig your roots up or just added new plants along with the roots?

[@madgereddall3576]

@@Jas-qm4cg h

[@toddlee2932]

Is it possible to add another layer of landscape pavers? If so do you have any advice on how to do so.I would like mine to be a little higher.

[@maxpatch67]

You can add another layer with landscaping block adhesive. No problem. Have a great day!!

[@kala9907]

I just saw your older video last week. I just completed my border this week! Thanks for the update video. Right on time.

[@maxpatch67]

Wow!!! Way to go!!! If have have a chance, please send me a finished border photo at [e-mail]. I'm going to make a gallery of borders for people to browse through for fun. Thanks.

[@mrsllp1439]

What tag are the borders posted on?

[@susanneschauf7417]

Wow, this is the best diy video for bed borders. Even I can do this without getting overwhelmed 😅 Thanks for this great idea!!!

[@maxpatch67]

Honestly, it is really the very best method I've ever seen over all and I was just lucky enough to come up with the idea a few years ago. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment!!

[@conniemaniaci3612]

Jeannette: so glad you are active. I am 77 and do the same maneuver with all my large bags. No matter our age there is always a way!

[@noreenperez8666]

Wood like to know why you haven’t upload, hope everything is well🙏

[@alexz4786]

Nice solution but what about the drainage

[@maxpatch67]

Excellent question. I always attach a drain pipe doing straight down in the ground from the downspouts that extends under the ground and out into the yard, past the landscaping area. Thank you for that good question, Alex!! Please let me know if I can help you any more.

[@Mr.Das1983]

It’s people like you that make the most of us no-good-for-nothing look pro 😁 I can’t wait to start this project using your steps and make our lawn beautiful. Thanks again. Like others have already commented, you are simply the best 🙏 thanks again

[@maxpatch67]

Hey, thank you so much. I really appreciate that. It means a lot to me!! If you get a chance when you are finished, I'd love it if you sent me some finished pix to put on my website to share with others as noted in the video description. Thanks again!!

[@Mr.Das1983]

maxpatch67 of course I will. Thanks and have a nice day!

[@derekwhitehouse3082]

I am getting ready to lay new edging on my front yard. Is this method...using the concrete, a permanent job? What if I (or a new home owner) wanted to change the edging at a later date? Just curious how "permanent" this particular method is? Can the concrete be broken up easily if changes need to be made later? Thank much!

[@maxpatch67]

Well, the yard is not dug up so it wouldn’t take any digging to get it out, but you’d have to break it up with a sledge hammer. You’d want to choose another method if you’re not sure of the long term. Thanks for the question, Derek.

[@jroark101]

Won’t that concrete just cause big problems if you want to remove?

[@maxpatch67]

Yes. Don’t build this unless you are sure of what you want for many years.

[@ytmndan]

Just turn the bricks around to get rid of the gaps. That’s why the sides are angled like that.

[@maxpatch67]

Yes! Alternating the block faces would close the gaps. Maybe this would look good along a straight border? I recommend staying with the front facing arrangement, however. Many eye-pleasing landscapes use large, curving borders. The extra gap on the inside allows the border to turn without losing its "uniform" appearance.

[@stas211386]

@@maxpatch67 you can still easily make a curve without having gaps and I would recommend just throwing down a little paver base and tamp it rather than use concrete

[@Samy-hh1wn]

I appreciate you so much. this is gonna save me tons of money and omg the end results look like it worths a lot of money.

[@maxpatch67]

It does cost about $5-$6 per foot, but I think it adds a lot of value to the property.

[@connieh1898]

Thank you for redoing this tutorial! I just bought the supplies for the project this week based on the older video. So nice to have clearer visuals!

[@maxpatch67]

I’m glad to hear that, Connie. This border has been perfected with step #5 that I added. Also, I tried to include details for the most common questions asked in my comments.

[@maxpatch67]

If have have a chance, please send me a finished border photo at [e-mail]. I'm going to make a gallery of borders for people to browse through for fun. Thanks.

[@connieh1898]

@@maxpatch67 I'll send you some pictures asap :)

[@toddphipps5496]

This is one of the best demonstration videos that I have ever watched, on anything! Outstanding video, sound, camera angles, and content. Well done!

[@maxpatch67]

I really, really appreciate that. Thank you for the kind words. I’m a middle school teacher so maybe that’s the reason for the qualities of the video. Have a great day!

[@HeidisHereAndThere]

You know, if you alternate the bricks, front facing and then back facing, you won't have all those gaps to fill in!

[@maxpatch67]

Yes! Alternating the block faces would close the gaps. Maybe this would look good along a straight border? I recommend staying with the front facing arrangement, however. Many eye-pleasing landscapes use large, curving borders. The extra gap on the inside allows the border to turn without losing its "uniform" appearance.

[@elizabethdinny7894]

Can you then stack another level using the weight of the stone to hold it in place without extra cement or can use use a fine layer of the ready mix cement to make the next level? How do you do this with small incline will it look off?

[@keebler6903]

you could do that if you want to make a straight line with the blocks, as that is what they are designed to do, but for curves the only way you can really remove the gaps is by cutting the block, or getting a 2" wall cap block

[@tonyoliver5444]

keebler6903 Cap blocks are what a true professional would do!

[@justinegrayson2352]

@@elizabethdinny7894 I think you would have to make sure (very sure) that the first level is level, the next layer could be added with some construction adhesive. I wouldn't do more than 2 layers high with this method. To go higher than that it is probably best to dig the first layer into the ground about half way.

[@suzbone]

Me again... this update is GREAT! I especially love that you recommend protection while working with quickcrete, too... folks who haven't worked with it before aren't likely to know they really do need protection when handling it. This update has so many useful nuggets... better pricing for metal spikes... how many linear feet per bag of quickcrete... slope away from the house for drainage... well done, sir!!!

[@suzbone]

Liked and shared!!! A lot of folks I know are doing DIY landscaping right now.

[@maxpatch67]

I tried! Thanks, Suzbone!

[@maxpatch67]

Ya it’s the right time of year while it’s cool out and the ground is better to work in for planting now because of the rains. Later in summer planting can get pretty difficult. Some places I work get hard as a rock later in summer.

[@michiteliabradshaw3633]

I just did this on the siding of my house praying it works, yours looks amazing

[@maxpatch67]

Thank you, Michitelia! How did your border turn out?

[@lacydo]

How did it turnout

[@drew6207]

How did it turn out, don't leave us in suspense!

[@vinhkphan]

I'm planning on making a fire pit with those stones next week and you just gave me a great idea with using the cement mix. This is brilliant!

[@maxpatch67]

Hey, Vinh, you are brilliant for figuring out how to adapt this technique!! Please let me know when you finish and send me some pix!! Awesome!!

[@nimageofmine]

I don't recommend this steps if you want a long lasting border that stays even after years. Do the hard work to lay out a solid foundation under the ground by digging and adding gravel / sand.

[@nonisnest9718]

Perfect timing for us -our new house has no plantings in the front and now we are confident that we can easily have a beautiful border to our upcoming garden. Thank you!

[@maxpatch67]

My pleasure, Noni's Nest!! Sounds like you have great plans!! Have a great day!! :)

[@cindyspohn8407]

This is exactly what I have been looking for. I am landscaping an area with a lot of tree roots and so I can’t dig down to set them in the ground. I have spent hours watching videos on KZbin and finally found my answer with your method. Thank you!

[@maxpatch67]

My pleasure, Cindy, thank you for the comment. I love reading this!!

[@noyoke1]

Hi Cindy, I am using this great method myself. I ran into a horrible patch of root thatch like you. about 30 feet of it. I bought a new wood saw blade for my reciprocating saw. it worked great.... it laid out precisely how wide I wanted and how deep I wanted the base for the concrete.

[@dorald1]

Mr. MaxPatch - Very interested in your no dig boarder and will be doing this in our backyard soon. I am courteous as to it is holding up approximately one year later? Could you please update us?

[@maxpatch67]

Yes. Thanks for the question....the border is very long lasting....it will stay nice for many, many years. Only build it if you are very sure of what you want for many years to come. You will not regret making this border, Dorald!!

[@dorald1]

Thanks for the come-back! I’m convinced it’s the way for me to go. So is my back!!! Thanks again Mr. Patch.

[@maxpatch67]

My pleasure, Dorald!!

[@dreamgirrrl9]

This is EXACTLY what I'm going to do to our front yard this Spring! Thanks for showing such an easy way to do it. I actually already have the edging, just need to take it up and reshape it w/ some nice curves. Excellent idea!!

[@maxpatch67]

I'm so glad to hear this! You won't regret creating your super nice border. If you'd like to send me pix at my email [e-mail] thenI could post them here: www.timvogelaar.com/Diy-no-dig-border-folder-of-galleries .....feel free to browse other viewers' work there. Have a great day, Syllina!

[@sterlingholobyte]

Dang! I was watching KZbin not being logged in and had to sign in to like this video so I could refer to it later. Great idea!

[@maxpatch67]

Hey, sterlingholobyte! Thanks for the comment! Awesome!

[@reneaurquhart2281]

ME TOO!

[@karrileigh18]

Haha I just did the same thing!

[@joditsui1040]

Why do you spread the mix to 1 foot wide when the bricks’ width is smaller? Now I can see the leftover concrete. Can I place it the same width as bricks?

[@maxpatch67]

The width is for added strength and weed control.....but it will work without the extra width so that's great if you want to make it just a little wider than your bricks....have a great day, Jodi!!!!

[@Phamyunx]

Thank you so much. Inspired by your video, I finished my front yard in 2020 by myself alone. Laid 198 blocks, used 16 bags quickset concrete, 300 hundred + galvanized nails, 6-Pack Gatorade, 6-pack Beck Beer, and more....

[@maxpatch67]

Whoa!! I'm so glad to hear this good news, Phil!! I'm so excited for you!! You don't have to, but if you wanted, you could send your pix to my email and I'll post them on my website. I bet it looks great in your yard! My email is [e-mail] and here is a link to projects others have done with this technique: www.timvogelaar.com/Easy-diy-no-dig-border. Have a great day, Phil, and thank you for your comment!

[@khinekhine613]

Wow congrats

[@tikakahn2521]

How much was the total cost on Beer?

[@Phamyunx]

@@maxpatch67 emailed

[@atlantis1191]

Even I can do this feeling empowered

[@maxpatch67]

I'm glad to here this, atlantis1191. Have a great day!

[@faribamoslehi5275]

kzbin.infof5nfcLZ45dQ

[@Zoetropeification]

The permanence and ease of your method is great. I will try this soon using old paving brick instead of landscaping block.

[@maxpatch67]

Cool. I hope you get a chance to try it. Have a great day!

[@joprent6727]

Good idea. 👍

[@niallcoulson8607]

Great idea, but I don’t think it will work in Canada ... winters are too cold ... too much freezing, thawing and frost 🇨🇦

[@maxpatch67]

This is an excellent question and one that I would be interested in knowing too if I lived up there. Here is what I know. On my older video of this technique, I had people from several years ago, testify as to how happy they were with this border after multiple winters and these people lived in New England, Chicago, and Canada. That being said, I don't have personal experience building them up there and I do understand your concern.

[@jameshunt7972]

maxpatch67 I’m wondering if this will crack in New England winters?

[@jenelwoodard7665]

My husband and I did this today. Will post pictures when we finish the project.

[@traviscampbell7565]

Please post pictures

[@NRImomslifestyle]

JENEL WOODARD yes plz do post pics. We need to do some kind of edging for our front yard landscaping , I’m thinking of giving this a try.

[@maxpatch67]

Ya, please post somehow....go ahead a link to your pictures because they don't let you post photos in these comments. I'd love you see your work!

[@lucycope7047]

Amazing going right now to get the bits I have already have a slabed garden witch is big but my borders are out off control this looks awesome

[@licensed2hustle_]

Just finished mine as well using the smaller bricks (prior to seeing this video today). Came out great!

[@thebeginningoftheend2772]

We did ours yesterday, very happy with the results ❤️❤️❤️

[@maxpatch67]

I'm so glad to hear this!! You will love it for so many years!! If you would like to send me some finished pix to [e-mail], I'd love to post them on my webpage www.timvogelaar.com/Easy-diy-no-dig-border. Congratulations!!

[@denisramhit9066]

How many rows can I go up with this method? Can I go up with 4-5 rows on top with the concrete mix

[@maxpatch67]

I wouldn't do that since it is not levelled....you'd be better off choosing a different method if you have that need for height.

[@MarisolOceanSun]

I did this on the home I lived in for 3 years. I followed the DIY and did it! thank you I was so proud.🙂

[@maxpatch67]

I'm so glad you had great success with this border and thank you so much for taking the time to leave this comment... I really appreciate that!! Have a great day, @marisol2819!!

[@steffanied1620]

Thanks for the great video! Followed each step this past weekend and am super happy with the results. I have a slope in the front yard and it was no issue using this technique!

[@maxpatch67]

I'm super happy for you, Steffanie!! You will love it for many years to come!!

[@jenniferbailey9103]

How does this work with gentle yard slope? I see ppl said they did it with uneven yard, but how? Are you blocks level? Or sloped?

[@maxpatch67]

Ya, there is not problem with a slope in the yard. After tacking down the plastic edge, just level the concrete mix off even with the edge. I generally hold my cardboard level with the ground while doing this so the whole border looks uniform when finished. Let me know if I can help you anymore, ok, Jennifer?

[@jenniferbailey9103]

Thank you!

[@ellymae00]

This looks like it could be the perfect choice for me. I really appreciate your detailed instructions, too. A couple of questions: do you think this will stand up to Indiana winters? Also, how do you think this would work using a variety of garden stones for a more natural look? Thanks again for the great ideas.

[@maxpatch67]

Roxanne, this is an excellent question and one that I would be interested in knowing too if I lived up there. Here is what I know. On my older video of this technique, I had people from several years ago, testify as to how happy they were with this border after multiple winters and these people lived in New England, Chicago, and Canada. That being said, I don't have personal experience building them up there and I do understand your concern. I hope this helps, Roxanne. Have a great day!!

[@ericslotsve3982]

How well does this work in northern areas where the winter freeze is very hard. Will the concrete base break up?

[@nokster1798]

Man!!! Thank you for this. Great stuff!

[@maxpatch67]

My pleasure, nokster! Have a good day!

[@Casmige]

How about a 2023 update, BroDIY’er?

[@maxpatch67]

Great idea! I'm planning on one for Spring '24. Have a great day!!

[@phollero]

Thank you for the ideas and steps. I feel confident I can do it myself.

[@maxpatch67]

My pleasure, Self Reliant. I like your name.

[@reneejdesignstudio]

Thank you for this great video. This looks so incredibly easy. Can’t wait to try it.❤️

[@maxpatch67]

You will be glad you made it!! It's getting cooler and the cement needs to have a warmth of at least the 50's to set up hard, so that's something to consider. I hope you are having a good day. Thanks for the comment!! :)

[@ToddEdmondson]

I just used your idea for a 40’ lavender garden - about to do the misting step now. It’s looking like your video. Thank you. I decided to dig a small trench and fill it with locking granite then hammered galvanized nails into the ground to make it a natural curve.

[@maxpatch67]

hey, great!! How'd it turn out?

[@pickingpetunias1318]

This is the best. I just did this to the front of the house. It really makes an impact. This way the stones are not on dirt. If you hustle you can do this in a day. Great project!

[@maxpatch67]

I'm really glad to hear that! I'm going to start collecting images of finished projects to share with people and I was wondering if you'd like to share yours with me for that purpose. If you want to send me some pix, you can send them to [e-mail]. Thanks!

[@drumer4life21]

He should have interlocked them would have looked cleaner

[@maxpatch67]

The problem that arises with this is when you are creating a curved edge, then you have gaps on the front that most people think looks worse than on the back side. Your idea is perfect for a straight line, but this method is so fun to create curved lines with.

[@drumer4life21]

maxpatch67 idk mine doesn’t have any gaps but maybe it’s the style of brick I choose to use. Yours still looks good. Preference I guess lol

[@holleymeade]

With the shape of those blocks (they are not equal distances on each side) you can’t interlock or you will end up with a circle. (We tried a couple different layouts before deciding on the permanent one) This is why he put the extra concrete in those gaps. Fills in and strengthens the border. Also, it looked like he only put the heavy duty spikes every few holes. That’s what we did. We used the heavy duty spike to start, one at each end of roll, then the plastic ones in-between, about 4-6 holes down, then another spike. It just gave us piece of mind that it wouldn’t come up later, as the plastic ones may not last forever. This technique turned out very easily done, especially for non-professionals (my hubby and myself!) and the border turned beautifully!

[@maxpatch67]

@@holleymeade Holley, I'm so glad your project turned out great. I wish you could send a photo, but that's not the way youtube works. :) You have good insight. Thanks for you comment and have a great day!

[@davidmarino9009]

Totally agree. I just did. If you rotate the blocks you will avoid gaps at every blocks and can navigate the turns. Will have a slight gap at certain degree turns but most are not noticeable. But this technique is great.

[@sandral.2828]

Maybe I missed the part where you explained how to level the ground properly so your border doesn’t look like a roller coaster track.

[@maxpatch67]

Ha! Good one. I personally like the line made by following the curves of the ground...to me its more natural and aesthetically pleasing.

[@sandral.2828]

maxpatch67 Definitely, I love the curviness of the outline of the bed. What I’m wondering is how you get the stones level with each other. I guess I wasn’t very clear.

[@DR0CK]

That part involves digging so it was done first. Yeesh, didn't you read the title? This part is no dig :p

[@lexingtonnc4915]

I took the concrete base as the way to level up small imperfections in the ground without digging.

[@maxpatch67]

@@sandral.2828 Sandra, I'm sorry for the slow response. I just saw this. After you use the cardboard or small board to level off the concrete mix on the plastic edge, you set the blocks down. They will be amazingly level from this process. Again, I'm sorry for taking so long on this question.

[@MycobraII]

You can flip every second block to get rid of the space in between the blocks and make it more appealing.

[@maxpatch67]

That's what I would do if I weren't making it so curvy. With curves, it ends up looking worse having them flipped back and forth with gaps on the front side of the border sometimes. Your idea is perfect for straight lines. Thanks for the comment, Darren!!

[@bernfran1313]

Thanks for sharing. I want to do this for my Mom's yard, all around her house. Very helpful and easy to follow instructions!

[@maxpatch67]

My pleasure!

[@nancygruen7179]

I finished mine about a month ago using your video as my guide, and it worked great. would post pictures, but not sure how to do that or if it is allowed., But truly thank you for the great video, it really works

[@maxpatch67]

My pleasure, Nancy. Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment. Have a great day!

[@shortstack1757]

@@maxpatch67 why the concrete?

[@DT-tm8cn]

Really looks great! Looking at all the different types of borders that my husband and I are considering this is a top contender.

[@maxpatch67]

@@shortstack1757 The concrete adds height(just for looks), adds bonding and stability for the blocks, and goes a long way as a weed barrier for aggressive grasses and weeds like we have here in Nashville which includes Bermuda Grass.

[@31acruz]

How many times did you mist it with water?

[@lovetofly101]

QUESTION.....can't wait to try this....can I add another layer of bricks with this method? Thanks great video

[@maxpatch67]

Yes, you could use traditional mortar, but I’d suggest using landscaping block adhesive. I don’t like making it two layers high because I don’t like the way it looks as much.

[@dedethom9]

We did this a couple days after watching . Turned out great Thanks so much

[@maxpatch67]

Great to hear, Dede! You are welcome.

[@RN083012]

Thank you for this update, this is amazing! I can't wait to do my flower beds now

[@maxpatch67]

Great! My pleasure.

[@khoalam888]

@maxpatch67 Do I really need the concrete? What will happen if I just set the stones on grass? What is the purpose of concrete in this application? Similarly, What is the purpose of the no-dig edger? What will happen if I don’t use it? Like just a line of stones on grass, no edger, no concrete, backfilled with mulch. Thank you Totus tuus

[@maxpatch67]

The cement adds height, strength, and acts as a weed barrier. The plastic edging acts as a form for the concrete. If you don't want to keep the pastic edge there permanently, you can use it in reverse and make it removable. Both of these things are not a choice in this technique...they help make the technique what it is, which solves many problems for people in how they currently use landscaping blocks where they end up crooked and weeds going everywhere. Please let me know if I can help you any more. Have a good day!!

[@zacharyreed1378]

Question. How does this method hold up in cold climates? Just wondering if you’ve seen what freezing and thawing will do you it.

[@maxpatch67]

Zachary, this is an excellent question and one that I would be interested in knowing too if I lived up there. Here is what I know. On my older video of this technique, I had people from several years ago, testify as to how happy they were with this border after multiple winters and these people lived in New England, Chicago, and Canada. That being said, I don't have personal experience building them up there and I do understand your concern.

[@Noonelson]

how would this hold up in a freeze/thaw climate

[@michaelmurphy4574]

here in Chicago, that would be broken up with the freezing winters in 1 season. Love the idea though

[@tidonovan]

I did this in Boston using his old video and all the same material. The only difference is I went three rows high with the blocks. Not sure if the extra weight of each row of blocks (joints staggered) helped with stability, but after three winters everything is still solid. Only time will tell I guess.

[@maxpatch67]

I make these in Nashville, but others have made them in New England, Chicago, and Canada according to my previous video before this updated this one. There are tons of comments, but if you scroll way through them, they bragged how happy they are with them after a few years.

[@wjb111]

That was my first thought also. Seems Michigan winters would destroy the concrete. 🤔

[@RB-tx4mn]

@@wjb111 so concrete is not used in Michigan or Chicago at all?

[@theresachiorazzi4571]

I like your ideas why knock yourself out whatever is easy appeals to me Good job

[@dboy820]

There’s no way this works in a cold weather climate, right? He just dumped concrete on the dirt and grass.

[@maxpatch67]

Though I make these borders in Nashville, others leaving comments on my older video for this same border have said they are working great in New England, Chicago, and Canada. Threre are lots of comments to sort through, but you could find them and ask them more if you find it unbelievable. Here is the old video where the comments are: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYvGZYRof5mXh5Y&feature=emb_logo

[@MeinardoBenitez]

I went through a number of the comments and didn't see anyone address why to use concrete? My concern is what if I want to change the layout or design later? This seems like a permanent job?

[@abcxyz-kc7ch]

I agree. That's what I was thinking and it extended into the border too. You would have no choice but to cover it with mulch.

[@madman432000]

It's just concrete without reinforcement so it should just break up with a hammer blow if you want to remove and/or change shape.

[@abcxyz-kc7ch]

@Z W may as well forget the stone bricks and just create a concrete strip.

[@maxpatch67]

Yes, Antonio, this is designed to be a permanent solution for many problems people have with other types of borders. The purpose of the concrete is to add height, stability, and act as weed barrier against aggressive grass and weeds. Thanks for your comment and let me know if you have any more questions, ok? Have a great day.

[@mrskimthomas06]

A decorative border doesn’t get a seasonal or even yearly wardrobe change. If the stone is just set down on the ground it’ll move with heavy rain or when the kids bump it playing in the yard. But if you want to change things around, pull the mulch back and use a flat edge shovel to wedge under the concrete and lift up. It’ll break apart pretty easily.

[@carlfrasse]

Just wanted to comment that this worked really well, inexpensive easy and quick. the fast set concrete really works. Great video, thank you!

[@maxpatch67]

Thank you for taking the time to leave this comment and congratulations on your accompishment in building your diy border. Have a great day!!

[@jamesk1745]

Really like the finished look of the stones along the lawn bed. I have similar colored stonework along the the pillars and frontal areas of my house; kind of grayish and off white mixture of stones. This will really add a nice touch. Thank you for the video!

[@maxpatch67]

Sounds good, Mayo! Thank you for the comment!

[@lindaappiah-iz1fj]

Hello, for the owner of the video and anyone who can answer… what are those black sticks on his yard? Looks like small black wooden sticks. What are they and what is the purpose of it? We just built our house in an HOA last year and we have those same sticks in our front yard, except ours looks old and I want to change them 2:54

[@maxpatch67]

I can't quite figure out what you are talking about. Can you explain yourself a little more and then maybe I can help you with that. Thanks!