How To Move Landscaping Rocks

Introduction

Landscaping rocks can be one of the most rewarding elements to include in your outdoor project. Whether you're decorating a single flower bed or trying to create a rock garden, the movement of landscaping rocks requires some careful planning and considered execution. In this article, we will cover 8-12 relevant topics to assist with how to move landscaping rocks, including popular subtopics to help you gain a deeper understanding.

1. Rocks: Types, Weight and Size

When considering landscaping rocks for movement, it's important to consider the type of rock, its weight and size. Different types of rocks are popular building blocks for different projects. Certain common landscape rocks include flagstone, river rock, slate, marble, and limestone. Each type of rock has different abilities and susceptive to various elements. Flagstone is renowned for its strength and durability, whereas slate is less susceptible to cracking or breaking over time.

2. Rock Barriers

Setting up a strong barrier will minimize the risk of injury when moving rocks. Utilizing tarp, steel grill, planks and two-by-fours will help to keep an exact space for the rock and its destination. It's also important to consider the number of people helping source and move rock, as it can be dangerous if everyone isn't in communication.

3. Markers and Pathways

Using measuring tape and marking tape, create pathways to ensure accuracy in positioning and placement of the rock. Without a marker, it can be difficult to see the exact corner of the rock, making it more difficult to manoeuvre.

4. Moving by Hand

One of the most basic methods of moving rock is simply by using muscles. If the rock is small enough, it's possible to roll it across the yard. It's important to consider the weight of the rock as most produce bushes and lawns are unable to carry anything too heavy.

5. Machines and Grips

When moving landscaping rocks, a variety of machines and grips are available to move larger pieces. Machines such as excavators are able to transport pieces of rocks that are too large to move, whereas grips come in various shapes and sizes and are constructed into a piece of metal.

6. Tools

A variety of tools available for exactly measuring and moving rocks. Tools such as dumpster and chains are useful when transporting large pieces of landscaping rocks, where a rock splitter can be used to break larger rocks into manageable pieces.

7. Pulley Systems

For heavier pieces of landscaping rock, a pulley system can be used to distribute weight equal and hourly. A combination of rope, trolley and winches can be adjustable to the weight of the rock and also the terrain it is travelling over.

8. Leverage Technique

The leverage technique involves the use of wedges and levers to move rocks in various angles. It's typically used with stones and boulders when machines and grips are not suitable, and once in place, it can move the rock into its destination.

9. Geotextiles

Geotextiles are a group of materials commonly used in landscaping projects, and when combined with construction firms, they can be used as a barrier around landscaping rocks to reduce the risk of soil erosion and injury.

10. Adhesives

Adhesives such as epoxy, resins and mortar can be used to secure and fix landscaping rocks in place. Certain products are popular for gabion baskets or retaining wall-style features. They are also able to increase in strength over time.

11. Skidding Technique

The skidding technique manoeuvres large rocks with the use of ropes and hoists. Rarely used alone, this type of technique is normally used in combination with another machine, such as an excavator or toy wheeler. Mechanisms like levers and winches typically use this concept, but ensure the weight of the rock is within its tolerance limits.

12. Safety and PPE

When moving landscaping rocks, it's important to consider basic safety guidelines. Ensure the area is secure and no one is injured and that the right PPE is being utilised. Depending on the work, maintain the correct geographical distance and wear appropriate clothing, such as long sleeve shirts, trousers and safety boots.

Summary

Moving landscaping rocks can be a rewarding experience but requires careful planning and considered execution. In this article, we discussed 8-12 topics relevant to how to move landscaping rocks, including popular subtopics to gain a deeper understanding. We looked at different rocks, types, weight and size, rock barriers, markers and pathways, moving by hand, machines and grips, tools, pulley systems, leverage technique, geotextiles, adhesives, skidding technique and safety and PPE. Understanding each of these points will help correctly move landscaping rocks and minimise the risk of damage or injury.