TikTok's Gravel Design Looks Satisfying, But Is It A Good Idea For Your Next DIY?

Stone, pebble, and gravel landscaping can look spectacular. When it's done well, it can also be durable and easy to live with. Unfortunately, there are a number of mistakes people make when using gravel in landscaping. Sadly, these can result in problems that need almost constant attention. It would be great if there were a solution that didn't involve needing to lift all the gravel and start again. One TikTok video suggests that pouring wet cement over the existing surface will provide an effective fix, but is it a good idea for your next DIY?

In principle, the process should be relatively quick, easy, and inexpensive. Although no explanation is given in the video, it seems pretty clear that a thin mix of cement and water is used. Cement is readily available, so that isn't a problem. It doesn't look like any sand or aggregates have been added to turn it into concrete. The liquid is then poured onto the pebble or gravel surface and brushed across it so it flows through any gaps. A floor squeegee, like the one from Yocada, would probably be as effective as a brush and could be cleaned afterward. The broom would probably be ruined. 

As the mixture sets, it should stabilize the surface, reducing the need for maintenance. It's a straightforward job that could be tackled by anyone with basic DIY skills. However, it may not be a good idea.

People often choose natural stone for its appearance, but in this TikTok hack, the gray coating could permanently change that aesthetic. Another video shows the pebbles being rinsed off with a hose, but there's a challenge there too. If the cement is wet enough to be cleaned off the pebbles, how much between them would also be washed away? Unfortunately, there's no explanation. Another question relates to durability. Cement lacks the structural strength of concrete. It's possible the hack is intended only for decorative purposes, but the area being treated is close to a building. The surface should be okay for foot traffic, but not for vehicles.

There are other gravel options that harden like concrete without altering the visual appeal. It's an area worth investigating. Rock glue, such as PetraMax, is popular for decorative landscaping on paths and borders, but the bonds are not strong enough for driveways. For sizable areas with regular vehicle traffic, consider gravel grids, such as the Sunnyglade thick ground grid. Each pocket holds a modest amount of stone, but once filled, it appears like a continuous covering.

The drawback with any loose natural-stone surface is that it is prone to movement. It's hard to find shortcuts that are both effective and maintain the appearance, so a little elbow grease is required from time to time. That said, following a few regular maintenance tips to keep gravel areas looking good shouldn't be a major chore.