Laying options paving slabs used to cover paths are very different, and each of them has its own functional characteristics suitable for a specific purpose.
Since paving slabs are a very practical and indispensable finishing material, you can use them to give free rein to your creativity. Thanks to this material, you can create the most extraordinary original drawings on the streets, near your home and in the garden that will decorate your life and lift the spirits of everyone who finds themselves near these wonderful paths.
The modern market for surface covering materials is rich in types of paving slabs of different shapes, colors and textures. Manufacturers produce it in a fairly wide range of colors. In order to create a path with a beautiful and harmonious pattern, tiles of two very different colors are usually used. Main criterion The basis by which you need to choose a tile is its destination, the shape and colors of the buildings that will be located near it.
Options for laying paving slabs
Today, paving slabs are usually laid using one of three methods popular among builders:
- laying tiles on a sand bed;
- laying tiles on a mixture base quality cement and sand;
- laying tiles on a homogeneous cement-sand mortar.
In order for the tile to last a long time and not lose its original aesthetic appearance, you need to properly prepare the place for its laying. To do this, cut off the top layer of soil and level the area for the path. If the tile has to be laid on soil with plants, its surface is covered with small stones. This helps prepare a good base for tiling.
When the base is ready, a layer of sand is poured onto it. Its thickness should be within 5-10 cm. It is important to compact the sand well, or even better, to water it generously from a hose with a sprayer. When the moisture is absorbed, the sand itself will lie more densely and the sand cushion will be ready for further action. If you looked at all the options for laying paving slabs and chose the first one, then you can immediately lay the purchased tiles on the compacted sand, having previously thought through the pattern.
This option is great for garden path. Rain, snow and melt water will not stagnate on such a path; they will seep through the seams between the tiles and be absorbed into the sand, and from there into the soil. This method is the easiest and least expensive in material terms. But also the most impractical. It is not suitable for installation in places where people often walk, as it will not withstand constant heavy loads.
If we compare the methods of laying paving slabs according to their practical indicators, then the second option will be in second place. To make the necessary mixture, sand and cement are taken in a ratio of 5:1. The well-mixed mixture should be evenly distributed over the area, carefully lay the tiles on it and pour it all big amount water. Water will seep between the seams and help hold the mixture together, giving strength to the entire structure.
If we evaluate the methods of laying paving slabs popular among modern architects by their reliability, then the third option will undoubtedly lead in this rating. It is the most reliable, but at the same time the most complex. Prepare required amount mortar for such masonry manually is very difficult and time-consuming, so most often special concrete mixers are used for this.
The ratio of sand and cement in this solution is the same as in the mixture in the second method - 5:1. When the solution is ready, it is laid out on the prepared area using special trowels and leveled. The thickness of its layer should be approximately 3-4 centimeters. The tiles are laid on the mortar using a rubber mallet.
When making such a laying, remember that such a path will not be able to absorb water, which will stagnate on it and cause discomfort to those who walk on it. Therefore, such a path must be created either with a slope or with additional grooves along which water will flow. It is this method of laying tiles that is most often used in large cities, where a constant flow of pedestrians creates a heavy load on the paths.
You can examine in detail all the options for laying paving slabs; the photos on our page show shots from real masonry carried out in accordance with the technology.
Choosing how you will lay tiles on your property is only half the decision. This half is very important for the strength, reliability and longevity of your work. Another important component is the aesthetic content of this process. It is very important to choose the right color and shape of the tiles, to create a beautiful pattern that will blend harmoniously with the environment.
By looking at the methods of laying paving slabs, photos of which we have prepared for you, you can see how aesthetically attractive and pleasing to the eye such a coating can be. To do this, you just need to purchase material in several colors with an original pattern and lay out the tiles in exact accordance with the chosen pattern.
Yard and Garden Decor
There is a simple and complex options laying paving slabs. There are a lot of photos of such patterns on the Internet, you can choose one of them or come up with your own original design. Simple patterns are the combination of two colors in a predetermined order, and complex patterns are the creation of full-fledged patterns from tiles.
If you want to pave your patio or garden paths with tiles, “Classic” paving slabs are best for you. All installation options suit it; thanks to the rectangular shape of such tiles, the patterns with it are quite interesting. Due to its simple shape, such tiles are relatively inexpensive, but by showing a little imagination and beautifully combining different colors, you will end up with an aesthetic picture that pleases your eye. If you want to add originality to the picture, you can use figured tiles.
Using textured tiles to cover garden paths will allow you to create unusual combinations and unexpected patterns. The color range of this material is very wide, it allows you to choose the tiles to match the color of the lawn, soil, tree leaves and other elements of your garden.
Popular paving slab laying schemes
The most famous and in demand today are the following options for laying paving slabs (real photos):
Against the background of trees, bushes and lawns, tiles with irregular shapes and wide seams look very beautiful. Thanks to our material, you can choose the best one for your conditions. method of laying paving slabs, the video at the bottom of this page will help you with this.
Popular types of paving slabs
Among the huge range of tiles on the market, we can highlight several of the most popular types of this material, which have already proven their excellent functionality and practicality:
In addition to the above, there are other excellent options for laying paving slabs. A “brick,” for example, lasts a very long time thanks to unusual technology production. It is created using a dry-pressed method in which water is used in minimal quantities.
Thanks to the low price, correct geometric shape and the excellent functional characteristics of this type of tile, builders use it very widely in their work. Also quite good in terms of price and quality ratio are the following types of tiles: “Paving stones”, “Trapezoid”, “Diagonal”, “Roman city”, “Modern”, “Parking grid”, “Color mix” and others.
Paving slabs are absolutely inexpensive material, you don’t need to buy a lot of it to create several paths in the garden. Combining original tiles with other decorative elements, you will create the most extraordinary pictures in your garden, embodying harmony, comfort and inspiration.
How to lay paving slabs with your own hands without any problems so that they last for many years? There are generally accepted recommendations that everyone should follow. In this case, achieve High Quality easy, using minimal effort.
Material advantages
Paving slabs are considered a popular material that is used to form pedestrian paths and platforms.
Path made of paving slabs
It has numerous advantages:
- a wide selection of shapes, colors, and textures of materials, which allows you to realize any design solution;
- paving slabs are made from environmentally friendly materials, which prevents harm to the environment;
- the coating does not change color or change shape when exposed to high or low temperatures;
- styling street tiles implies the formation of drainage, which prevents the accumulation of water on the surface;
- characterized by high strength to various types loads and wear resistance;
- operation of the finished coating is easy, since caring for it does not cause difficulties;
- Laying paving stones is carried out quickly and does not require the involvement of specialists.
Site marking
At the planning stage, it is necessary to carefully consider where the paving stone paths will be placed and how they will be laid. It is best to draw a site plan, which will allow you to calculate all the required areas.
After calculating the required volume of materials, you should add 10-15% to the resulting number. Laying paving slabs may not be so easy, so a supply is needed in case they are damaged during the installation process.
When planning paths, you should also not forget that curbs are installed along its edges. They should be much thicker than paving stones. The border will help maintain the integrity of the coating and give it a complete appearance.
To lay paving slabs with your own hands, use the following tools:
- shovel (it is advisable to use a shovel and a bayonet);
- rubber or wooden mallet;
- building level;
- Bulgarian;
- a set of spatulas of different widths;
- rule;
- twine or cord;
- roulette;
- Master OK;
- container suitable for preparing building mixtures;
- rake.
A rake will help distribute the material evenly
Preparing the base
Before laying paving stones, you need to take care of. First, markings are carried out on the site by driving wooden pegs along the edges of the paths. A cord or twine is pulled over them.
The resulting site must be carefully leveled. During the work, all high places are removed and holes are filled in. The technology for laying paving slabs implies the presence of a slope (transverse, longitudinal, transverse-longitudinal). When it rains, it will allow water to drain and prevent puddles from forming on the surface.
After leveling the area, it is carefully compacted.
Various types of manual rammers
This allows you to prevent uneven shrinkage of the coating during operation. It must be remembered that the entire installed paving stone structure will have a thickness of 20 to 30 cm. Therefore, in many cases it is recommended to remove the top plant layer of soil and deepen the coating.
Laying paving stones on a concrete base
Is it possible to lay paving slabs on a concrete base? This must be done if the coating will be placed on soft soils. Such actions will prevent premature destruction of the tracks. You can lay out all the layers of the structure in the following sequence:
- A layer of screed formed from is poured onto the compacted base.
- The surface is carefully leveled and compacted to remove air bubbles.
- It is necessary to lay the curbs, filling both sides with fine gravel.
- Curbs are installed taking into account the fact that they inside there will be paving stones (provide a gap of 2-3 mm).
- Curbs are concreted with a solution prepared using a 1:2 ratio.
- The rules imply the use of cement-sand mortar as glue.
- Wooden spacers are installed in the gaps between the individual covering elements to form seams.
- After installing the entire track, the remaining solution is carefully removed from the surface.
The process of removing mortar residues from paving stones
Application of sand base
How to lay paving slabs on sand so that the resulting coating lasts for more than one year? This base is the most successful because it plays the role drainage system. Sand increases the stability of the structure several times and prevents its premature destruction.
How to properly lay paving slabs in in this case:
- A sand cushion 50-60 mm thick is placed over the entire surface.
- The bulk material is carefully leveled with a rake.
- The sandy base is watered until puddles form.
- After 3-4 hours (in sunny weather), the pillow is given the desired shape.
- An ordinary pipe or block is used as a guide profile.
- The pipes are placed at a distance of 2-3 m, and the sand in the interval between them is leveled using the rule.
Laying paving slabs
Installation on cement-sand mixture
How to lay paving slabs correctly if they are expected to be subject to heavy loads? The following recommendations should be followed:
- A sand powder 3-4 cm thick is applied to the prepared base.
- Install reinforcing mesh, which will significantly increase the strength of the coating.
- It is necessary to mix dry fine sand with cement in a ratio of 4:1 (you can buy a special tile composition in the store).
- The finished mixture is leveled on the surface (the maximum preparation thickness is 4 cm).
- To facilitate all operations, guides made from reinforcement bars or pipes are used.
Popular patterns for laying paving stones
How to lay paving slabs to make them look beautiful? There are several popular schemes.
Classic order
For a beginner, laying tiles in the yard is easiest using classical scheme. It involves placing individual elements coatings one after another. In this case, it is best to use paving stones of the correct shape - rectangular or square. It is easy to install without professional skills.
For improvement appearance For this coating, it is recommended to use paving stones during the formation of the path different color and textures. In this way it is possible to implement various design solutions.
Laying scheme “offset”
This technology for laying paving slabs is also traditional. It involves installing individual elements in such a way as to avoid overlapping joints.
To achieve good quality For coverings, it is recommended to use paving stones of the same shape. There are no restrictions regarding the color and texture of the material.
Herringbone pattern
You can even lay paving slabs in a “herringbone” pattern, which means installing each element of the covering at an angle of 45 or 90 degrees.
In this case, the paving stones can have a rectangular or shaped shape.
An improved version of the “herringbone” is considered to be “wicker”. It involves alternating longitudinally and transversely placed coating elements. To ensure that the resulting pattern is clear and aesthetically attractive, it is recommended to use materials of only two colors during installation.
Other schemes
There are other ways to lay paving slabs:
- chess order. It is recommended to combine several colors;
- diagonal pattern. The longitudinal seam of the coating is shifted relative to the axis of human movement by 30-60 degrees;
- geometry. We use tiles of the same size, but different colors(various patterns are formed in the form of geometric shapes).
Rules for laying paving stones
It is necessary to start laying paving slabs in the direction away from you. In this case, the coating does not deform under the weight of a person. Laying paving slabs on sand occurs according to the selected pattern. Each element is carefully leveled and fixed with a mallet.
Subsequent rows of covering are also installed maintaining a 2 mm gap. During installation, the evenness of the paving stones is constantly checked. If a defect is detected, the tiles are dismantled and installed again.
After laying the paving stones is completed, they begin to fill the seams. For this purpose, sand or a sand-cement mixture is used.
On finishing stage work, excess grout is removed, checking the quality of filling the joints. They are also thoroughly moistened with water. The seams should be tight, as they take on part of the load.
Some installation nuances
Existing methods of laying paving slabs are implemented in compliance with the following rules:
- installation of paving stones occurs from the lowest point to the highest;
- when installing in a circular manner, work begins from the center of the pattern;
- during operation, check the horizontal level every 2-3 rows;
- when installing paving stones on sand, the gap near the curb is not concreted;
- To better fill the joints with sand, it is recommended to compact the surface with an area vibrator.
Care and maintenance of coating
It is allowed to walk on the laid paving stones only 2-3 days after the final sealing of the seams. To clean the surface of dirt, use a broom or rinse it with a stream of water from a hose. You should constantly monitor the safety of the seams. Over time, sand is washed out, so it must be added periodically.
It is forbidden to clean paving stones with abrasive powders. For this, it is better to use sifted river sand. If necessary, the surface can also be washed with a mild soap solution.
Laying paving slabs with your own hands, the step-by-step instructions for which are presented above, is carried out without any difficulties. The main thing is to follow the recommendations of experienced specialists.
Owners summer cottages And country houses in their possessions they want to create for themselves an atmosphere that will both please the eye and promote active recreation. Gone are the days when a piece of land was perceived solely for growing agricultural products. The garden beds have made room a little and given way to gazebos, green lawns where children can frolic, as well as beautiful garden paths that are both pleasant and convenient to walk on.
Paving stone paths undoubtedly look the best and are the most functional, but when site owners begin to consider the prices for paving services, all interest often disappears. But in vain. In this article we will try to prove that there is nothing impossible in such a process as laying paving stones with your own hands. Step-by-step instruction will help readers of our portal bring this process to life.
What are paving stones? What is it like?
Paving stones comes from the word whetstone. Granite, basalt or other hard rock was previously split into fragments (bars) of approximately equal size and shape, then a covering was assembled from them - paving stones, which is why it is called chipped stones. Such technologies are still used today. Such coatings look very interesting, although the surface can hardly be called perfectly smooth and installation requires a highly qualified craftsman. Over time, due to the passage of a large number of people and passing vehicles, the surface wears out and is ground. naturally and becomes smoother. It is precisely these paving stones that are loved by tens of millions of tourists visiting the old cities of Europe, paved hundreds of years ago.
The next step in the development of paving stones was the use of sawn stone, when all the bars have the same geometric dimensions. Such paving stones are also called full-sawn paving stones, since all edges were processed. It became easier to lay such stones, roads and sidewalks became smoother, and it became easier to walk on them. And now sawn paving stones made from natural stone are most widely used, even despite their considerable cost.
Another variety of paving stones is split-sawn paving stones, when a stone blank is first sawn into blanks of equal thickness, and then split into pieces the right size. Sidewalks and paths look very advantageous, where full-sawn and split-sawn paving stones are successfully combined.
Also in the 19th century, clinker paving stones began to be produced in Germany, obtained from natural slate clay, from which they were molded into bars of the desired size and shape, and then fired in a kiln at high temperature. This technology is still simpler than cutting or splitting natural stone, so clinker paving stones began to be produced in large volumes. It is still being produced, as it has proven its worth. Some clinker sidewalks have been successfully used for more than 150 years and are not at all about to “retire.”
Prices for paving stones
paving stones
IN modern world, with development construction technologies, a good replacement for natural materials is made - concrete paving stones. With a very large interference, it can be called pure concrete, since in addition to high-quality cement and mineral fillers, it contains a lot of polymer additives that increase strength, wear resistance, frost resistance and also allow the paving stones to be painted in any color. This gives unlimited scope for the implementation of any idea for decorating your site. Concrete paving stones can be made into any shape, so all path curves, transitions and various other curved elements can be laid without labor-intensive trimming.
Concrete paving stones can be vibrocast or vibropressed. The second is preferable, since its performance properties are much higher. Manufacturers' statements that concrete paving stones are in no way inferior to natural granite or clinker stones are only partly correct, if only because artificial paving stones have not yet passed the test of time. The authors of the article do not wish to offend any manufacturer or seller of concrete paving stones. If in a ridiculous 150 years we are shown a sidewalk in good condition from artificial stone, which is due today, we will sincerely apologize for our words.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of paving stones?
Residents of cities built not in the 20th century, but much earlier - in the 18th and 19th centuries, have you seen at least once how old paving stones peek through from under the “shabby” asphalt surface. A reasonable question arises: why does the “younger” asphalt “live” so much less? road surface, which our great-grandfathers and great-great-grandfathers did. And this fact is far from uncommon. It turns out that well-laid paving stones can serve as a load-bearing base for other coatings.
If you believe historical sources, then even in ancient times not all cities could afford paving stones, but only with a substantial budget, since this coating was very expensive even then. It is still very expensive. But it’s still too early to write off paving stones. Despite the fact that such covering of roads and sidewalks is very expensive, fortunately, it will delight our eyes for a long time. Why does humanity stubbornly continue to use paving stones, what are its advantages?
- Paving stones are very durable, wear-resistant and frost-resistant.
- Due to the fact that the paving stones are always laid on a drainage pad, water will never accumulate on the paths.
- Paving stones are always easy to repair, because you can partially disassemble them and then reassemble them. You can also change individual elements.
- When the soil moves, no cracks form on paving stones.
- Paving stones do not melt in the heat like asphalt and do not emit vapors of various petroleum products.
- Paving stones look very beautiful. They testify to the good taste and wealth of the owners.
- Laying paving stones does not require the use of special heavy road equipment, that is, all work can be done independently.
If paving stones are such a wonderful covering, then why not pave all roads and sidewalks with it, and then live and rejoice in the fact that there is enough for our lives, and possible problems let the grandchildren or great-grandchildren decide. Paving stones still have disadvantages.
- Paving stones are a very expensive material. Covering roads and sidewalks with asphalt or concrete is much cheaper.
- Work on laying paving stones is also one of the most expensive, as it requires serious preparation of the base and qualified work force. It takes much more time to build a road made from paving stones than from other materials.
- Paving stones require good construction measures, since excess water will simply wash away the base.
- Paving stones have a large mass, so they are prone to subsidence, especially if the laying was carried out in violation of technology.
- Driving a modern car on cobblestones is a dubious pleasure, and in wet or frosty weather the surface can be very slippery.
- For reasons “unknown” to science, for some reason women who wear heels do not like crushed paving stones.
Nevertheless, owners of country houses and summer cottages should very seriously consider the use of paving stones for paving yards or arranging paths in the garden. And if you do it yourself, the money saved will more than cover the cost of purchasing the material. However, you can even make paving stones yourself, which you can read about on our portal.
What is the difference between paving stones and paving slabs?
If you consider various sources, then this issue can become very confusing. When some say that paving stones are only a natural stone, others argue that it’s not this, but the size - the paving stones are much thicker. We propose to clarify this issue; to do this, we suggest considering the following table.
Prices for paving slabs
paving slabs
Paving slabs are paving stones that regularly visit a nutritionist The horizontal line shows typical thicknesses of paving slabs or paving stones, and the vertical line shows greatest length, because tiles or paving stones can be not only square, but also rectangular. If the ratio maximum length to the width will be less than or equal to four, then we can say that this is a paving stone. In the table, such ratios are indicated in red-brown color. If the indicated ratio is greater than four, then such products can be classified as paving slabs; these ratios are highlighted in blue cells.
Paving stones are superior to paving slabs in their bearing capacity. Obviously, if you put a 160*100*62 mm paving stone on the sand and run over it with a KAMAZ wheel, then nothing will happen to it - it will simply be pressed deeper into the sand. And if you take a 420*420*62 mm tile and place it in the same conditions, then most likely it will crack. It turns out that with equal thickness, the fracture strength will be higher for paving stones.
Paving slabs - practical finishing material, which opens up wide possibilities for creativity. There are many types of paving slabs various shapes and textures. This material comes in a wide range of colors, but two colors are usually enough to create an attractive pattern on your front yard or garden path. There are different options for laying paving slabs; what to choose depends on the location and its purpose.
Basic methods of laying paving slabs
There are three main ways:
- on a sand cushion;
- for cement-sand mixture;
- on cement-sand mortar.
Before laying tiles in any way, you need to prepare the base well - remove the top layer of soil. If you are going to lay tiles on a soil layer overgrown with grass, in addition to sand you will also need crushed stone to level the surface. After this, a layer of sand (5-10 cm) is poured onto the base. The surface of the base can be compacted, or you can simply pour water from a hose with a nozzle, allowing the moisture to be absorbed.
In the first, simplest case, the tiles can be laid on wet sand. This good way laying for garden paths, water will practically not stagnate on them, it will be absorbed by the seams and go into the sand, and then into the ground. But this installation option cannot be called thorough.
The second method is not labor-intensive and more practical. To create the mixture, cement and sand are mixed (1/5 ratio), the mixture is evenly distributed over the site, after laying the tiles, its surface must be watered. Water will provide the mixture with good adhesion, penetrating between the seams.
Laying tiles with cement-sand mortar is the most reliable option, but also the most difficult. It is difficult to prepare the solution manually, so it is advisable to have a concrete mixer. The ratio of cement and sand is also 1/5, we spread the prepared solution on the base, and use a trowel to level it. The mortar layer is 3-4 cm. To lay the tiles, we use a rubber mallet. If installation is carried out without a slope, be sure to use gutters to drain water.
The methods of laying paving slabs described above will help in choosing suitable option, but that's only half the story. It is very important to lay the tiles with high quality so that the resulting coating is durable and practical, but considerable importance is attached to the design of laying paving slabs.
Using tiles various colors, with an interesting textured surface, laying out according to a certain pattern can create a coating that is truly interesting and aesthetically attractive, pleasing to the eye and enlivening the appearance of the yard and garden.
Paving slabs as a means of decorating the yard and garden
The layout of paving slabs can be very simple when in a certain order two colors are combined, and a complex one with which you can create real drawings.
For paving your yard or garden path, you can choose classic rectangular tiles. Despite the fact that its shape is simple, rectangles of different colors can be successfully combined to form an interesting pattern. When choosing figured tiles, the path will look even more original.
A cute path created using brick tiles gray and framing the sides of the path with red tiles. A matching staircase and a path made of decorative saw cuts in the shape of flowers add completeness to this part of the garden.
Various designs on paving slabs are created using color, shape and alternating tiles according to a specific pattern.
Textured tiles – a good option for the garden, allowing you to create original patterns and combinations. Its color can harmonize with the color of the soil and the greenery of lawns. In this case, the pattern of leaves on the surface is appropriate in the garden
Herringbone and wicker
Popular patterns for laying paving slabs include herringbone and wicker. The herringbone pattern can be obtained by laying tiles at a certain angle - 90° or 45°. Braid is a version of herringbone, when the alternation of tiles resembles interlacing. The braid is created by alternating longitudinal and transverse laying.
Simple drawings for creating patterns on rectangular and shaped paving slabs. To create a striking pattern, you can use only two colors. In the first row in the second illustration there is a herringbone, in the fourth row in the second illustration there is a wicker
Chaos or random mix
A simple installation method that will look good on the path - chaos or a random mixture. To create a chaotic pattern, you can use tiles of different colors and sizes, laying them in random order. It's not difficult, and the result can be interesting.
Two-color tiles square shape, laid out in a checkerboard pattern, always looks impressive. Can be used to create cells of two rectangular tiles.
A path in a garden where rectangular tiles are laid out in twos in a checkerboard pattern, forming neat symmetrical squares. Plants match the color of the path
Among the examples of laying paving slabs, the circular pattern occupies a special place. The "circular pattern" pattern will allow you to create beautiful playground in front of the house, resting place in the garden. If a creative person is working on creating a tile pattern, you can deviate from the usual patterns, creating beautiful designs that look very impressive in a normal position or from a height.
An example of a combination of a circular pattern and a “random order” scheme; when creating a pattern, the tiles are laid out strictly according to color, forming circles of different colors, the circles are framed by tiles of the same colors, laid out in a random order
The drawing was created using the “leaf” template, the result was beautiful composition on the recreation area, even more impressive thanks to the sandstone frame on one side
Tiles and lawn (flower bed)
An interesting combination is formed by tiles and lawn, when part of the lawn is framed with tiles or a small flower bed is created in the center of the path or area. This is an element landscape design, using which you will make your site more aesthetically attractive.
Tiles and lawn - beautiful harmonious combination. The irregular shape of the tiles, wide joints look impressive against the background of the green lawn
In the center of the tiled path, small flower beds look original, becoming an interesting detail in the appearance of the garden and yard
There are quite a few types of laying paving slabs, the material is inexpensive and for a small garden you won’t need much of it, and in combination with other means decorative finishing it will help you make your yard and garden more comfortable and beautiful.
The laying pattern is determined by the design decision, the size of the site, and the type of soil. It is necessary to take into account the shape of the slabs, which are produced in the form of rhombuses, squares, waves, clovers, and figure eights. Paving is done using checkerboard patterns, diamond patterns, herringbone patterns, circular patterns, braided patterns, paving stone patterns, and figured patterns.
Features of decorating sidewalks with tiles
Sidewalks and platforms made of decorative slabs are durable, wear-resistant, and environmentally friendly.
The work will require the following tools:The peculiarity of the materials lies in the wide range of colors, variety of plate shapes and patterns. The technology allows you to create an aesthetically pleasing landscape design and easily repair damaged areas. Laying is carried out using slabs, crushed stone or gravel, purified sand, geotextiles, cement, dry plaster.
- rubber hammer;
- mallet;
- building level;
- rake;
- cord;
- pegs;
- watering hose;
- tamping;
- channel.
- elements of the same size, shade and shape can be laid out according to a pattern or in a chaotic order;
- in collections, tiles have a short and an elongated side, so laying diagonally, across or along the path is possible;
- installation involves the design of platforms and elongated paths;
- slabs can be laid offset, simulating brickwork, at right angles, in pairs;
- For standard blocks, 5-6 laying methods have been developed;
- using paving stones rectangular shape you can create borders;
- paving stones are used when decorating lawns, radiuses, intersections, and courtyard areas;
- Parts of different thicknesses are not used for paving, because It will require large expenses to level the sand cushion.
Varieties
The plates differ in design, shape, and colors. The following varieties are in demand:
- brick;
- coil (bone);
- clover;
- square;
- eight;
- checkers;
- California;
- rhombus;
- wave.
- for sand mixture;
- on a sand-cement cushion;
- to the solution.
To lay out the sand mixture, you will need to remove the top layer of soil with grass. Then a layer of sand up to 10 cm is poured out. The surface is compacted, watered, and left to compact. Slabs are laid on top of the sand layer.
The technology is carried out using water and is suitable for designing paths on garden plot. The technique helps prevent water stagnation in the area.
Creating a sand-cement cushion is an economical and practical way. You will need to mix purified sand and cement in a ratio of 5:1. The composition is distributed on the surface, then the slabs need to be laid. Upper layer the paths are treated with water, which penetrates through the seams and ensures durable adhesion of the elements.
The method of laying slabs on mortar is more labor-intensive. Water is added to the mixture of cement and sand and mixed. The composition is placed on the surface with a trowel in a layer of about 4 cm. The laying out of the slabs is carried out by tapping with a rubberized hammer. When the path slopes, it is necessary to provide for the laying of gutters and a drainage system.
Layout schemes
The pattern of paving slabs is laid out using the following methods:
- use of monochrome blocks different sizes and configurations;
- creating a mosaic of elements of different shades;
- design of radius sections.
The patterns use combinations of checkerboard dressings, concentric rows, changing directions, etc.
Using colorful tiles
Paving stones for decorating paths can be monochromatic or laid out randomly from blocks of different shades. The color scheme is selected to match the finishing palette of the elements of the site and building. Chaotic combinations of different shades allow you to create an accent zone.
When selecting materials, the texture is determined. To create a neutral coating, you can choose matte surfaces; a coating with an artificially aged effect is created from slabs with abrasions.
Combined options
Combined options for laying out paving stones of two colors are simple to implement and allow you to effectively combine light and dark colors. When composing combinations of 3-4 shades, detailed diagrams with precise calculations of the sizes of the elements are required. Using diamond-shaped slabs in several tones, you can create original color effects on the pavement surface.
Checkerboard or herringbone masonry patterns are simple to implement. The design is used for sidewalks, pedestrian paths, and small areas. The pattern is not suitable for wide roads. For large areas, schemes in the form of curvilinear transitions and concentric circles are optimal.
Which tiles are suitable for radius sections?
Radius plots are distinguished by a curvilinear shape and allow you to adjust the design solution of the plot, correct uneven proportions of the plot in the absence of straight lines in a complex landscape.
To design plots with a radius configuration, the following technologies are used:
- staggered laying - done with simple brick blocks, the slabs are placed with the elongated side across the path, the elements form wedge-shaped slots;
- “herringbone” - the laying pattern allows you to adjust the curved line of the path, the blocks are laid out at an angle of 45 or 90°;
- slabs can be combined with sections lawn grass, elements of different configurations can be used to design plots; low-growing grass (timothy grass or bluegrass) is used for the spaces between blocks;
- slab cutting technology is used for large-sized tiles or collection mosaics; the method is labor-intensive because at the junction with the curbs, the slabs are cut to the required dimensions, the remaining parts are used in the design of other curved areas.
Preliminary drawing up of a diagram of paving slab patterns will reduce the cost of finishing materials.
How to choose a pattern for paving?
The shelf life of slabs in site design is 40-50 years; the type of pattern must be suitable in terms of functionality and design.
When selecting a scheme for paving a sidewalk or site, the following factors are taken into account:
- dimensions and shape of paths and platforms;
- landscape features of the territory;
- general color scheme of the buildings on the site;
- purpose of space ( game Zone, parking lot, pedestrian path, roadway, etc.);
- architectural features of the allotment buildings.
Paving stones are used for areas that can withstand intense loads, for parking lots, and sports grounds. For complex design solutions, figured tiles are used. Complex mosaics can be created using stones of different proportions and dimensions.
For straight sections, rectangular slabs are used; the shape of the blocks is not suitable for curved paths.
Single-color elements are used in the design of areas adjacent to the path; to decorate the main path, a combination of more than 2 tones is required. If there are differences in heights on the site, it is necessary to select a multi-stage installation.
To decorate small areas, do not use figured blocks of different shades, because... a complex coating pattern will visually reduce the space. Simple elements with smooth surface visually expand the space. Universal for different schemes paving are squares and rectangles.
Paving options
There are these:
- brick (spoons);
- Christmas trees, wickerwork for parquet;
- chessboard;
- diamonds;
- circular patterns;
- curly templates;
- mosaic;
- paving under paving stones;
- modular;
- linear-angular;
- linear with offset.
Brick or spoon
Paving using the brick laying (spoon) type is simple to perform and economical in the consumption of building materials. The combination of elements of different colors looks original. When laying out plain blocks, you can create an accent by contrasting seams or borders.
- Without shift - located vertically or horizontally depending on the size and shape of the land plot. The horizontal design visually expands the area, the vertical version lengthens the path.
- Laying with a shift or offset is aesthetically pleasing and allows you to correct uneven terrain. The joints are spaced apart. The diagram allows you to place elements horizontally or vertically.
Braids and Christmas trees
Herringbone styling is in demand and easy to perform. The elements are placed at an angle of 45° or a right angle is used. The paving is durable, wear-resistant, suitable for pedestrian paths and driveways to buildings. If an angle of 45° is maintained, the area is visually reduced, while a slope of 90° visually expands the area.
Imitation of weaving is created by alternating longitudinal and transverse laying. Elements must be combined at right angles.
For creating original design you can alternate different shades of elements. The braiding technique helps to visually enlarge the space.
Random order
To lay out the path using the random order method, elements of different shades and sizes are used. Paving is done randomly on a cement base. Laying can be combined with geometric patterns. Universal laying is used for multi-format slabs.
Chess
Laying elements in a checkerboard pattern looks impressive; the technique is suitable for decorating geometric areas and strict lines of paths. Paving squares can have a smooth surface or a textured finish.
You will need to use 2 contrasting shades. You can alternate smooth and rough surfaces of the blocks.
Diamonds
Diamond laying is done in several patterns. You can design a geometric pattern, a classic ornament, or a surface with a 3D effect. In a large space, you can lay out tiles in the shape of a star.
To perform the technique, you will need to prepare a sketch of the sidewalk, carefully level the path and mark the ground surface. The use of slabs of different shades (the color of clover, for example) is also suitable for the paving technique. The standard is a combination of terracotta, light gray and white.
Circular patterns
Circular patterns are suitable for paving areas of different sizes and configurations. However, a preliminary drawing up of a diagram, calculation of the volume of materials used, size and shape of the slabs will be required. With the help of circular laying, an original area is created next to the house, a gazebo and a space for relaxation in the garden are created. An effective design is created using multi-format elements. Wedge-shaped plates are used for the scheme.
Curly templates
Laying out paving stones according to shaped patterns is carried out in compliance with the direction of the elements and taking into account color range plot. The technology can be used in different landscape configurations. The creation of elements in the form of a star, flowers, leaves, silhouettes of people or images of animals is in demand.
To decorate the playground, you can use images of fairy-tale characters, children's drawings and paintings. To create original compositions, textured blocks are used. Before paving, you need to draw up a sketch, level the surface of the area and mark it according to the diagram. Computer programs are used to create complex designs.
Natural stone paving
When paving under masonry Requires tiles decorated to resemble stone surfaces. The technology is used to decorate garden paths, lawns, and sidewalks. The laying is done randomly on a sand cushion. Imitation stone surface suitable for a site with a house decorated with stones.
Mosaic laying
Mosaic installation is done using hexagonal slabs. The work will require elements of different colors. Manufacturers offer blocks with an aging effect after special treatment. Some kits offer items different forms, sizes for laying out mosaics in circles, semicircles, and in the form of a fan.
The laying technique is suitable for decorating paths and platforms. When decorating large areas, you can combine mosaics and plain masonry.
For complex technologies laying uses the dry method (on a sand or gravel bed), because There is no need to strictly observe the working time, so you can carefully lay out the mosaic pattern. With the adhesive method, you can replace a damaged element or section of the sidewalk without dismantling the base of the masonry.
