Custom Walkways & Front Entrances in West Chester, PA
Make a lasting first impression. We design safe, elegant, and durable walkways that perfectly match your home’s architecture.
Natural Flagstone (The Classic)
Pennsylvania Bluestone or Flagstone. Timeless, non-slip, and perfect for historic Main Line homes.
Clay Brick & Pavers (The Traditional)
Authentic clay brick or high-end pavers. Durable options that offer a variety of colors to match your siding.
Irregular Stones (The Organic)
Large, dry-laid stones for a rustic, garden-path aesthetic. Perfect for side yards and connecting garden beds.
Front Walkway Design & Installation: More Than Just a Path
Your front walkway is the first thing guests see. If yours is cracked concrete, uneven bricks, or a narrow ‘builder-grade’ path, it hurts your curb appeal and creates tripping hazards. At CKC Landscaping, we widen and redesign entrances to create a grand welcome that adds immediate value to your home.
Installation Standards: Built to Survive PA Winters
Our Proven Installation Processes
Standard Dry-Laid Installation (Pavers & Flagstone)
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Excavation: We excavate all existing sub-grade to a depth of 6 to 10 inches, including a minimum 6-inch over-dig extension around the perimeter for stability.
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Sub-Grade Prep: We compact the sub-grade soil and install a heavy-duty geo-textile separation fabric to prevent settling.
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Base Construction: We install a minimum of 6 inches of 2A modified stone, compacted in lifts using a 5,400 PSI vibratory plate compactor for maximum density.
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Setting Bed: We screed a precise ½-inch layer of concrete sand on top of the compacted 2A base.
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Installation: We install your chosen interlocking concrete pavers or flagstone.
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Edge Restraint: We lock in the perimeter with durable plastic edging, securing it with 10-inch steel spikes driven every 12 inches on center.
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Finishing: We dry tamp the surface, sweep in polymeric sand to lock the joints, and tamp again for a solid finish.
Open-Grade / Permeable Installation (Eco-Friendly)
- Excavation: We excavate existing sub-grade to a depth of 6 to 10 inches, with a 6-inch over-dig around the perimeter.
- Sub-Grade Prep: We compact the sub-grade and install geo-textile separation fabric.
- Drainage Base: We install a minimum of 6 inches of ¾” clean stone to create a free-draining open-graded base.
- Setting Bed: We screed a 1-inch layer of #8 stone (clean chip) for the bedding layer.
- Installation: We install the pavers or natural stone as chosen.
- Edge Restraint: We secure the perimeter with Edgecrete (concrete bond beam).
- Finishing: We dry tamp the surface, sweep in jointing material, and tamp again.
Wet-Laid Natural Stone (Concrete Foundation)
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Excavation: We excavate existing sub-grade to a depth of 8 to 10 inches, with a 6-inch over-dig extension.
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Base Prep: We install a minimum of 4 inches of ¾” clean stone and frame out the area.
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Concrete Pour: We pour a 4-inch thick, 4,000 PSI concrete pad, reinforced with rebar for superior structural strength.
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Installation: We wet-set Full Color Thermal Flagstone (or your stone of choice) on the cured concrete base.
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Pointing: We hand-point all joints with high-strength mortar for a classic finish.
Water Management & Grading
We don’t just build; we protect. We grade every walkway to ensure water drains away from your home’s foundation. Additionally, all downspouts located along the inside of the walkway will be buried and run under and outside of the new hardscape to eliminate water exposure and icing hazards.
Thermal Flagstone Walkway & Custom Putting Green in Kennett Square, PA
This Kennett Square homeowner wanted more than just a path to the front door; they wanted an entrance that combined formal elegance with backyard fun. We replaced the old builder-grade path with Full Color Thermal Flagstone, cut in a dimensional rectangular pattern for a modern, clean look.
To ensure longevity without the cracking risks of mortar, we utilized a dry-laid installation method locked tight with high-performance polymeric sand. The unique highlight of this project is the custom artificial turf putting green tucked seamlessly into the curve of the walkway, bordered by new privacy plantings that will mature into a lush natural screen.
Designer Flagstone Walkway with Sailor Course Border | West Chester, PA
For this West Chester home, we wanted to elevate the classic look of Full Color Thermal Flagstone with a distinct, custom frame. We installed the natural stone in a dry-laid setting for long-term durability, but added a decorative 6”x6” paver border along both sides.
Known as a ‘Sailor Course,’ this border creates a clean, structured edge that contrasts beautifully with the organic color variations of the flagstone. The result is a defined, high-end entrance that draws the eye straight to the front door while providing a stable, non-slip surface for guests.
Paver Walkway Restoration & Sealing | Chester Springs, PA
This Chester Springs homeowner thought they needed a brand new walkway, but our restoration team proved otherwise. The existing pavers were overrun with grass and had settled unevenly, creating tripping hazards.
We executed a comprehensive restoration process: lifting and re-leveling the sunken areas, removing all vegetation from the joints, and installing heavy-duty edge restraints to prevent future shifting. To finish, we installed fresh polymeric sand and applied a premium sealer to enhance the color and protect the surface for years to come.
FAQ’s
What is the most durable material for a front walkway in Pennsylvania?
For our freeze-thaw climate, we highly recommend Thermal Pennsylvania Bluestone or high-quality Clay Pavers.
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Thermal Bluestone: This natural stone is treated with high heat to create a textured, non-slip surface that is safe in wet weather. It is incredibly dense and resists flaking.
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Clay Pavers: Unlike dyed concrete pavers that can fade over time, authentic clay bricks hold their deep color forever and offer superior resistance to de-icing salts.
Can you install a new stone walkway over my existing concrete path?
We generally advise against overlaying stone on top of old concrete. Existing concrete often has hidden cracks or leveling issues that will eventually “telegraph” through to the new stone, causing it to crack or shift. Furthermore, adding height to a walkway can create dangerous trip hazards at your front door or alter proper drainage flow. For a long-lasting investment, we perform a complete excavation and install a proper flexible stone base.
How do you prevent the walkway from sinking or heaving in the winter?
Uneven settling is caused by a poor foundation. At CKC Landscaping, we go far beyond the industry standard. Our process includes:
- Deep Excavation: We dig 6–10 inches deep to remove unstable topsoil.
- Geo-Textile Fabric: We install a separation fabric that prevents the sub-soil from mixing with our stone base.
- Compacted Base: We install a minimum of 6 inches of 2A modified stone, compacted with a 5,400 PSI vibratory plate compactor. This engineered “floating” system allows the ground to freeze and thaw without disrupting the level surface of your walkway.
Do I need a permit to replace my front walkway in West Chester or the Main Line?
In most municipalities (like West Chester Borough, Tredyffrin, and Radnor), simply replacing an existing walkway with the same square footage does not require a zoning permit. However, if you plan to expand the walkway or add a new patio, it may count toward your property’s “Impervious Coverage” limits. We handle all the measurements and can assist with the township coordination to ensure your project is fully compliant before we break ground.
What should I use to melt ice on my stone walkway?
Never use standard rock salt (Sodium Chloride) on natural stone or concrete pavers, as it can cause the surface to pit and spall (flake off). We recommend using Calcium Chloride or Magnesium Chloride pellets. These are effective at lower temperatures and are much gentler on hardscaping and your surrounding plant material.
Do I need to seal my new walkway?
While natural stone like Flagstone does not require sealing to last, we often recommend it for Paver walkways. A quality penetrating sealer can enhance the color (giving it a “wet look” if desired), stabilize the joint sand to prevent weeds, and protect against stains from leaves, berries, or oil. We typically recommend sealing 6 months after installation to allow the efflorescence (natural salts) to escape. Our preferred sealer is Seal N Lock, and they have natural luster and also a wet look sealer that we have found to be the best.
Do you offer a warranty on your hardscaping work?
Absolutely. We stand behind our craftsmanship with a warranty on all hardscaping installations. Because we build to strict industry standards (using proper base depths and compaction), our patios and walls are engineered to withstand Pennsylvania’s freeze-thaw cycles for decades. We will provide full warranty details during your consultation.
What other services do you offer?
Outdoor Living & Hardscaping Services from the Main Line and throughout Chester County.
We are a full-service design-build firm. Here are the 12 core services we provide to West Chester Area homeowners:
- Outdoor Living Spaces
- Walkways & Paths (Natural Stone & Pavers)
- Roof Structures (A-frame, Shed, Flat, etc.)
- Decks (Trex & PT Wood)
- Patios (Natural Stone, Pavers, and Porcelain Tiles)
- Outdoor Kitchens (Grills, counters, fridges, etc.)
- Retaining Walls (Segmental or CMU – Natural Stone)
- Fire Features (Gas or Wood, Kits or Custom)
- Lighting (LED Landscape and Patio Lighting)
- Restoration & Enhancement (Cleaning and Restoring Old Spaces)
- Minor & Major Repairs (Walls, Patios, Walkways)
- Artificial Turf (Turf, Putting Greens, and Pet Friendly Grass)
OUR WALKWAY CRAFTSMANSHIP IN ACTION
See Why Families Trust CKC Landscaping
Esmeralda Rodriguez
5 ★★★★★ 10 weeks ago
Great price
Absolutely amazing service! The team was on time, professional, and turned my yard into a beautiful, clean space. I highly recommend them for any landscaping project — from design to maintenance, they do it all with care and attention to detail.
Services
Backyard landscaping
Chris Hunter
5 ★★★★★ 13 weeks ago
Great price
From our first phone conversation through to the end of the patio build. Everything was spectacular! The crew was always on time, cleaned up after themselves, and ensured my fence was back in place for my dogs at the end of each day. Dave ensured we had ample samples to look over and gave us a physical …
Rosemary Dillon
5 ★★★★★ 16 weeks ago
Reasonable price
Great experience from beginning to end. CKC Landscaping had done a beautiful job on a neighbor’s stonework. We wanted to replace our old, cracked cement front walkway and contacted the company. Explained what we wanted, got some great explanations and suggestions for a replacement …
Proudly Serving West Chester & Surrounding Towns
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Our work takes us throughout Delaware, Chester, and Montgomery Counties, Pennsylvania, and beyond. We collaborate with homeowners to create outdoor luxury in the following communities:
West Chester
Malvern
Berwyn
Wayne
Tredyffrin
Ardmore
Bryn Mawr
Glen Mills
Newtown Square
Swarthmore
Paoli
Chester Springs
Devon
Chadds Ford
Kennett Square
Unionville
Coatesville
Phoenixville
Exton
Downingtown
Chesterbrook
Frazer
King of Prussia
Villanova
Radnor
Collegeville
Glenmoore
If you live within our service area and have big dreams for your outdoor space, give us a call at (610)436-1810 to get started.
Ready To Transform Your Walkway?
Partner with CKC Landscaping—your family-owned West Chester experts—and enjoy a hassle-free journey from vision to victory. Contact CKC Landscaping, Inc. today to discuss how we can bring your outdoor vision to life. Our team is eager to help you create the perfect outdoor oasis.
