Edmonds Decorative Rock Installation Services
Let’s be honest—decorative rock can be a beautiful addition to your landscape, but if not installed properly, it can quickly become a headache. From using the wrong size to neglecting edge restraints, there are plenty of pitfalls that can lead to a messy yard. At Neat & Tidy, we specialize in decorative rock installation done right—ensuring clean lines, the perfect depth, and reliable drainage solutions that can withstand the unique weather of Edmonds.
What’s the Problem?
We understand the common issues that can arise, and we’re here to help you steer clear of them:
- Rock drifting into your lawn and walkways due to insufficient edge restraint or improper gradation.
- Those relentless weeds sneaking through just months after installation.
- Washouts occurring on slopes and around downspouts, creating unsightly puddles instead of effective drainage.
- Fabric laid under planting beds that chokes roots and looks outdated.
- Slippery pea gravel paths that become a hassle to navigate and can track indoors.
What We Install (and Where It Shines)
We offer a broad selection of decorative rock options tailored to meet various needs across Edmonds:
- River rock (1–2”) — ideal for dry creek beds, splash pads under downspouts, and accent bands.
- Crushed “minus” (¼″–10, ⅜″ minus) — perfect for compactable walking paths that are stroller-friendly.
- Clean crushed (⅝″ clean, 1¼″ clean) — best for drainage zones where fines would clog.
- Basalt/granite cobble & boulders — excellent for edging, step sides, slope stabilization, and creating visual anchors.
- Pea gravel (⅜″ round) — best reserved for decorative pockets; not suitable for slopes or heavy foot traffic.
- Gravel grid (stabilization cells) — perfect for drive strips, alley aprons, or steeper paths that require extra traction.
Fabric Policy: We utilize geotextile only under paths and drive lanes (to separate from clay). No fabric in planting beds—we rely on mulch and planting density for healthy root growth.
How We Build (So It Actually Stays Put)
Our meticulous process ensures a long-lasting installation you can count on:
- Site Evaluation — we assess the grade, water sources, soil type, wind patterns, and traffic flow.
- Edge Restraint — we implement steel/aluminum edging, stone bands, or concrete mow strips to keep the rock securely in place.
- Base Preparation — we remove organic material and add/compact a crushed rock base for paths and drive lanes.
- Geotextile Application — we only use woven/separation fabric on paths and driveways to prevent choking plant roots.
- Set the Depth — we typically aim for a 2–3” finished depth (not too thin, not too deep).
- Drainage Solutions — we create swales, splash pads, or dry creek routes to effectively manage water flow.
- Placement & Finishing Touches — we ensure even coverage, tight transition seams, and eliminate any “thin spots” that could invite weeds.
Just to be clear: covering weeds with rock is a temporary fix. We prep thoroughly, or we won’t take the job.
Coverage Math (Order the Right Amount)
- 1 cubic yard covers: Approximately 324 sq ft @ 1”, 162 sq ft @ 2”, 108 sq ft @ 3”.
- Example: For a 450 sq ft path at 2” → 450 ÷ 162 ≈ 2.8 yd³ → order 3 yd³ (we always recommend rounding up for curves and settling).
Details That Make It Last
We focus on the finer details to enhance your landscape’s durability:
- Transitions — neat seams to lawn, pavers, and concrete that allow for easy mowing and edging without displacing rock.
- Slope Control — utilizing jute/coir and rock “check” bands; grids on steep areas prevent slippage.
- Window Safety — we ensure no fling-zone rock is near mower passes by adjusting edges or materials accordingly.
- Planting Compatibility — we help you select stone that complements your plants and reflects heat appropriately (lighter rock = hotter soil).
Our Annual Maintenance Plan (Your Yard’s Routine)
Keep your landscape looking its best with our comprehensive maintenance plan tailored for Edmonds residents:
- Weed Prevention — we apply pre-emergent treatments and schedule hand pulls (IPM-first).
- Rake & Reset — we re-level traffic lanes, pull rock back from edges, and tidy seams.
- Top-Ups — we provide light refreshes where rock settles or migrates.
- Drainage Checks — we clear leaves from dry creeks and splash pads to ensure proper flow.
- Moss/Algae Control — shaded areas are treated as needed (without pressure blasting fines).
We’re a low-maintenance landscaping crew, aiming for fewer issues between visits and less hassle for you.
Service Cadences (Pick What Fits)
Choose a maintenance schedule that suits your lifestyle:
- Quarterly — includes spring/fall resets plus two tune-ups.
- Bi-Monthly — perfect for areas with heavy tree litter, high foot traffic, or slopes.
(For fresh installs on slopes or under large conifers, we recommend starting monthly for 60–90 days, then tapering off.)
What Annual Maintenance Includes
With our annual maintenance, you can expect:
- Edge patrol with re-pinning and re-seating where needed.
- Raking and redistribution to maintain consistent depth.
- Debris removal from dry creeks and drain inlets.
- Spot top-ups that match existing color and gradation.
- Photo updates so you can see how we keep everything looking sharp.
Why Annual Maintenance Matters
Maintaining your landscape brings numerous benefits:
- Clean lines = curb appeal that lasts well beyond the initial installation.
- Weed pressure decreases when we consistently maintain depth and edges.
- Safer footing—no slippery surfaces to worry about on your paths.
- Lower long-term costs—small top-ups are far more economical than full re-dos.
How It Works
Here’s how to get started with us:
- Free Estimate — we provide clear, upfront pricing through photos, videos, or a quick walkthrough.
- Design & Materials — you choose the stone, edges, and any drainage features you want.
- Build Day — we handle the prep work, set the edges, prepare the base (if necessary), place the rock, and finish cleanly.
- Follow-Up — we’ll offer you simple care tips and a maintenance schedule that fits your lifestyle.
Why Edmonds Chooses Neat & Tidy
Here’s what sets us apart:
- We’re a local crew with expertise in clay pockets, steep alleys, marine layer moss, and heavy winter rain.
- Licensed & Insured—we keep job sites tidy and respectful.
- Upfront Pricing—we include all materials, labor, hauling, and disposal.
- On-time, clean finishes—no stray gravel in your yard.
- Green-First Approach—we focus on permeable solutions, smart drainage, and minimizing landfill waste.
Ready for rock that looks great and stays put?
Call or text Neat & Tidy for a decorative rock installation that drains well, holds strong, and looks fantastic—without the hassle of constant upkeep. We’ll keep it tidy—so you don’t have to.