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Using sand under stepping stones can be beneficial in certain situations. Sand can help level the ground and provide stability for the stepping stones, especially if the ground is uneven. It also allows for minor adjustments during the installation process. However, sand may not be the best choice for all environments. In areas with high foot traffic or heavy rain, sand may wash away or become displaced, leading to an uneven surface. In such cases, a more stable base material like gravel or crushed stone is preferable. Consider your specific landscape conditions before deciding whether to use sand under stepping stones.

Pea gravel is the most common type of gravel, and it can be made of limestone, granite, basalt, sandstone, and many other types of rock. The strength in gravel comes from the distribution across the stones, so while one rock type may not be particularly strong (like sandstone), the matrix of small rocks that is gravel can become incredibly strong when installed correctly. 

No, mulch itself does not necessarily attract termites even though it’s usually made of shredded wood. Some types of mulch like cedar or cypress resist termites because they’re toxic or unappetizing to the wood munchers. However, when the mulch is deep enough, say three inches or more, it creates a perfect habitat for insects of all kinds to build nests.

Gravel driveways require regular maintenance because the material can shift over time. Routine tasks include raking the gravel to ensure an even layer, filling in ruts or low spots, and removing debris, especially after storms. You should also add fresh gravel as needed to prevent potholes, remove weeds by hand or with an herbicide, and occasionally spray the driveway with water to reduce dust.

Periodically, you may need to grade and level the entire driveway, which is often done every few years. Any refilled potholes should be compacted; for excessive dust, you can use a mechanical compactor. To minimize future maintenance, ensure the land is properly graded before installation and consider laying down landscaping fabric to help keep the gravel in place. In areas with heavy rain, reinforcing the edges can help prevent erosion. Additionally, it's best to avoid using a snowplow on a gravel driveway during the winter.