Concrete lawn borders are an affordable and effective way to enhance a home’s curb appeal while adding structure to landscaping. These durable edgings create clean lines between lawns, flowerbeds, and walkways, lending a polished look to any outdoor space. DIY concrete edging is easy—homeowners can tackle this project with basic tools and materials. This step-by-step guide walks you through the process.
Materials and Tools Need to Build Concrete Lawn Borders
Before starting the project, you’ll need to gather all necessary supplies. Here’s a comprehensive list of materials and tools required for building concrete lawn borders:
Materials:
- Quikrete Crack Resistant Concrete Mix
- Quikrete Liquid Cement Color (optional)
- Quikrete All-Purpose Gravel
- Quikrete Acrylic Concrete Cure N’ Seal (optional)
- 1⁄4-inch plywood
- Wood stakes
- Wood screws
- Wood spacers (1 x 1-inch or 1 x 2-inch)
Tools:
- Mixing basin, wheelbarrow, or electric mixer
- Wood float
- Edging tool
- Margin trowel
- Hammer
- Square-pointed shovel
- Screw gun
- Waterproof gloves
- Safety glasses
- Hand taper
- Garden sprayer, roller, or brush (for sealer application)
Planning for DIY Concrete Edging
Before homeowners start mixing concrete, it’s important to plan ahead. Homeowners should decide on the desired shape and dimensions of their concrete borders. Use a rope or similar object to lay out the proposed border path to better visualize the end result.
The site also needs to be cleared of any debris, rocks, or vegetation.
How to Build Concrete Lawn Borders
To lay your new concrete edging, follow each of these steps:
1. Dig the Trench
Outline the shape and dimensions of your desired concrete border using a shovel. The borders should be at least 3.5 inches thick and extend 2 inches into the underlying soil.
To allow for natural terrain variations, dig your trench 0.5 to 1 inch deeper than the final planned border thickness minus its soil penetration depth. For a typical 3.5-inch thick border, you’ll need a 5.5 to 6-inch deep trench.
Next, use a square-nose shovel to level the trench bottom and make the trench walls’ sides straight. These extra steps will result in better structural support for the concrete edging.
2. Install the Form Boards
The foam boards will act as a mold for the concrete.
Cut 1⁄4-inch plywood boards to match the planned border height, minus the 2 inches that will extend below ground.
Place the cut foam boards into the trench and brace them by hammering 12-inch wood stakes on the outside. The stakes should be level and even with the tops of the foam boards. Use a cordless drill to secure the boards to the stakes with screws.
To keep the width of the concrete form consistent, use 1 x 1-inch or 1 x 1-inch wood spacers placed at 4 to 6-inch intervals along the trench bottom. The spacers can remain while pouring concrete if you use them throughout the entire trench. Otherwise, remove spacers pre-pour to prevent flow obstruction.
3. Pour the Concrete
Before pouring concrete, add a thin 1⁄2-inch layer of gravel to the bottom of the forms. This helps stabilize the forms, prevents wet concrete from seeping underneath, and reduces the risk of cracking.
For the best results, use Quikrete Crack Resistant Concrete Mix, as it resists shrinkage cracking and provides a smooth finish. Mix the concrete by hand in a wheelbarrow or use a barrel-type concrete mixer. The consistency should resemble thick oatmeal and hold its shape when squeezed with a gloved hand.
Carefully shovel the concrete mix into the forms. The surface should be flat and slightly above the form edges. Then, use a wooden float to remove excess material and create a smooth, level surface.
4. Shape and Finish the Concrete Edging
Run an edging tool along the tops of the concrete borders, applying consistent and even pressure. Finish the edges into rounded or squared profiles on both sides. Cut ¼-inch deep control joints lengthwise to help control shrinkage cracks. It’s best to place these joints every 8 feet.
For the best strength and durability, the concrete needs to cure properly. Homeowners can either gently mist the concrete daily for three to five days or apply Quikrete Concrete Cure & Seal immediately after finishing to accelerate curing. If using the sealer, apply it with a roller, garden sprayer, or brush.
After five days of curing, carefully remove the form boards and avoid damaging the concrete. Fill any edge gaps with soil to create a seamless transition between the border and the surrounding landscape.
Properly installed and cured concrete borders typically last 20 to 30 years or longer.
How to Customize Concrete Borders
Once homeowners install the basic concrete border, they have several options to further customize and enhance its appearance.
Stain and Color
Concrete borders can be stained or colored to complement the home’s exterior or surrounding landscape. This can be done by adding Quikrete Liquid Cement Color to the mix before pouring or by applying concrete stain after the border has cured.
Texture and Stamp
For a more natural or decorative look, homeowners can texture or stamp the concrete to mimic stone, brick, or other materials. This process should be done while the concrete is still wet, immediately after pouring and leveling.
Apply Decorative Aggregates
Another option is to press decorative aggregates, such as small pebbles or glass beads, into the wet concrete surface to create a unique, textured appearance.
Maintaining Your Concrete Edging
While these borders are generally low-maintenance, some care is required to keep them looking their best.
Periodically clean the borders with a pressure washer or garden hose to remove dirt, debris, and any stains. Every few years, consider applying a concrete sealer to protect the border from moisture and staining. This is particularly important in regions with harsh winters or frequent freeze-thaw cycles.
If small cracks appear over time, they can be filled with concrete crack filler to prevent further damage. For larger cracks or more significant damage, consult a professional for repair options.
Final Thoughts About Concrete Lawn Borders
Concrete lawn borders offer an excellent way for homeowners to enhance their landscape’s appearance while providing practical benefits, such as easier lawn maintenance and clear delineation between different areas of the yard. By following this step-by-step guide, even those with limited DIY experience can successfully install durable and attractive concrete borders.
