Laying paving stones with your own hands. Step by step instructions and styling technology. Laying paving stones - choice of material, diagrams, step-by-step instructions Types of laying paving stones from three colors

The owners of summer cottages and country houses in their possessions want to create an atmosphere that will please the eye and promote active recreation. Gone are the days when a plot of land was perceived exclusively for growing agricultural products. The beds have made room for a bit and have given way to gazebos, green lawns where children can frolic, as well as beautiful garden paths, which are both pleasant and comfortable to walk on.

Cobblestone paths are undoubtedly the best looking and most functional, but when site owners start considering prices for paving services, all interest often disappears. But in vain. In this article, we will try to prove that nothing is impossible in such a process as laying paving stones with your own hands. Step-by-step instructions will help readers of our portal to bring this process to life.

What is paving stone? What is it like?

Paving stone comes from the word block. Granite, basalt or other hard rock was previously split into fragments (bars) of approximately equal size and shape, then a coating was collected from them - paving stones, which is why it is called chipped. Such technologies are still being used today. Such coatings look very interesting, although the surface can hardly be called perfectly even and laying requires a highly skilled craftsman. Over time, due to the passage of a large number of people and passing vehicles, the surface wears out, polishes naturally and becomes smoother. It is these paving stones that are loved by tens of millions of tourists visiting the old cities of Europe, paved more than one hundred years ago.

The next step in the development of pavement coatings was the use of sawn stone, when all the bars have the same geometric dimensions. Such paving stones are also called full-sawn, since all faces have been processed. It became easier to lay such stones, roads and sidewalks became smoother, it became easier to walk on them. And now sawn stone blocks made of natural stone are used most widely, even despite its considerable cost.

Another type of paving stone is chipped-sawn paving stone, when a stone blank is first sawn into blanks of equal thickness, and then split into pieces of the desired size. Sidewalks and paths look very advantageous, where full-sawn and chipped-sawn paving stones are successfully combined.

Also in the 19th century, clinker paving stones were produced in Germany, obtained from natural slate clay, from which bars of the desired size and shape were molded, and then they were 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 produced today, as it has proved its worth. Some clinker sidewalks have been successfully used for more than 150 years and are not going to be “retired” at all.

Prices for paving stones

paving stones

In the modern world, with the development of building technologies, a good replacement for natural materials is made - concrete pavers. It can be called purely concrete with a very large interference, 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 you to paint paving stones in any color. This gives unlimited scope for the realization of any idea for the design of your site. Concrete paving stones can be made in any shape, so all path roundings, transitions and various other curvilinear elements can be laid out without time-consuming pruning.

Concrete pavers can be vibrocast or vibropressed. The second is preferable, since its operational properties are much higher. Manufacturers' statements that concrete paving stones are in no way inferior to natural granite or clinker ones are correct only in part, at least due to the fact that artificial paving stones have not yet passed the test of time. The authors of the article do not want to offend any manufacturer or seller of concrete pavers. If, after a ridiculous 150 years, we are shown the pavement in good condition made of artificial stone, which is laid today, then 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 seen at least once how old paving stones peep out from under the "peeling" asphalt pavement. A reasonable question arises - why the more "young" asphalt "lives" much less than the road surface that our great-grandfathers and great-great-grandfathers made. And this fact is not uncommon. It turns out that a well-laid paving stone can serve as a bearing base for other coatings.

According to historical sources, even in ancient times, not all cities could afford paving stones, but only with a solid budget, since this coating was very expensive even then. It is very expensive even now. But it is too early to write off paving stones. Despite the fact that such a coating of roads and sidewalks is very expensive, fortunately, it will please our eyes for a long time to come. Why does humanity stubbornly continue to use paving stones, what are its advantages?

• The pavement coating is very durable, wear-resistant and frost-resistant.
• Due to the fact that paving stones are always laid on a drainage cushion, water will never accumulate on the paths from it.
• Paving stones are always easy to repair, because you can partially disassemble it and then reassemble it. You can also change individual elements.

• When the soil moves, no cracks form on the 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 nice. They testify to the good taste and wealth of the owners.
• For laying paving stones, the use of special heavy road equipment is not required, that is, all work can be done independently.

If paving stones are such a wonderful coating, then why not pave all roads and sidewalks with it, and continue to live and be glad that there is enough for our lives, and let grandchildren or great-grandchildren solve possible problems. There are still disadvantages to paving stones.

• Paving stone is a very expensive material. Pavements of roads and sidewalks made of asphalt or concrete are much cheaper.
• Laying paving stones is also one of the most expensive, as it requires serious preparation of the base and skilled labor. It takes much more time to build a road from paving stones than from other materials.
• Paving stones require good arrangements, as excess water will simply wash away the base.

• Paving stones have a large mass, therefore they are prone to subsidence, especially if the laying was carried out in violation of technology.
• Driving a modern car on paving stones 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 walk in heels do not like coatings made of chipped paving stones.

Nevertheless, the owners of country houses and summer cottages should seriously consider the use of paving stones for paving yards or arranging paths in the garden. And if you do it yourself, then the money saved will more than cover the cost of acquiring 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 we consider various sources, then this issue can be very confused. When some say that paving stones are only natural stone, others argue that this is not the point, but in size - paving stones are much thicker. We propose to clarify this issue, for this we propose to consider the following table.

Prices for paving slabs

paving slabs

Paving slabs are paving stones, regularly visiting a nutritionist

The typical thicknesses of paving slabs or paving stones are shown horizontally, and the greatest length is shown vertically, because tiles or paving stones can be not only square, but also rectangular. If the ratio of the maximum length to width is less than or equal to four, then we can say that this is paving stone. In the table, such ratios are indicated in red-brown color. If the specified ratio is more than four, then such products can be attributed to paving slabs, these ratios are highlighted in blue cells.

Paving stones are superior to paving slabs in terms of their bearing capacity. Obviously, if you put a 160*100*62 mm paving stone on the sand and hit 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 an equal thickness, the fracture strength will be higher for paving stones.

By laying out the courtyard of a private house or an alley along the site with paving slabs, you can not only achieve a practical and durable result, but also decorate the territory in an original way. The article will talk about the various methods and basic schemes for laying paving slabs. It will be told about technological processes and necessary materials.

At first glance, a simple technology requires certain skills and knowledge. Source versiya.info

Laying methods

There are three main options for laying paving slabs. The main differences are in the base, here they can simply use sand, a mixture / mortar using sand and cement. When choosing any option, it is necessary to prepare a quality foundation. For example, if the tile will be laid on soil with grass, then crushed stone is additionally used for leveling. Then a 5-10 cm sand base is made. After that, the surface is compacted or watered. It is necessary to put curbs on the sides so that the path that has not yet seized does not “spread” to the sides. Borders will continue to retain the shape of the path or platform.

Whichever option is chosen, the base requires good preparation. Source zabor.bz

For paths in the garden, the material can be laid directly on the sand, but it must still be wet. Water does not collect on such a path, it is absorbed at the seams. This is the simplest option, but this technology will not be able to withstand heavy loads. In the second case, a mixture is prepared in the ratio of 5 parts of sand and 1 part of cement. It must be evenly distributed, after which you can proceed to the laying process. At the end of the work, the entire surface is filled with water, which ensures a good setting. However, the use of a solution is considered the most reliable, although the process will be the most laborious, costly and long. The ratio of materials is identical to the previous method, the solution is laid out on the base and then the tile is laid.

Laying tiles for mortar is the longest Source eyecorrector.ru

Styling options

Paving must only be carried out by a specialist. Any violation of technology or non-compliance with the rules leads to the fact that after the first rain or heavy load, the masonry can deteriorate significantly and everything will have to be redone. Also, a good master will be able to offer different styling options.

Brick. The easiest way to lay paving slabs is brick. Its main advantage lies in saving materials. Originality can be given by alternating different shades.

Source ogorod.ahuman.ru

On our website you can find contacts of construction companies that offer, including garden and house paths. You can directly communicate with representatives by visiting the exhibition of houses "Low-Rise Country".

Herringbone. One of the most popular ways, the tile lays down at an angle. Guarantees high stability of the coating, often used in the arrangement of driveways. However, it is important to remember that the area may visually decrease or increase depending on the chosen masonry angle. Imitation of weaving is carried out using the longitudinal and transverse directions of the masonry with alternation.

Elements are stacked at right angles Source api.selcdn.ru

Chaotic order. A tile is used that differs in shade and size. Any laying order can be used, and the result is very interesting. Such masonry is very advantageously combined with other methods of paving.

With this layout, you can create drawings Source planetanovosti.com

Chess. Material that is laid out in this way always looks neat. The symmetry of squares is used, the best option for a strict design. The tile can have a textured surface and alternate color shades.

Source sy.grupoquepasa.com

diamonds. There are many masonry options for using this scheme. It can perfectly harmonize different shades. On round platforms, figured drawings in the center look great. Be sure to initially make a drawing-scheme of the picture. The special skills of the master will even allow you to achieve a 3D effect.

Tiled rhombuses will help create a three-dimensional pattern on the sidewalk Source pinterest.ru

Circles. Such examples of laying paving slabs are carried out using different patterns, details, shapes and shades, which are laid out radially. Here the master can show imagination and get very interesting results. Suitable for sites of various sizes.

With the help of circles, an interesting styling is also obtained. Source kankrit.ru

curly. It is very difficult to spread according to this template. It requires strict adherence to direction, as well as color. You can greatly embellish the landscape using a variety of shapes and images. To achieve a particularly spectacular masonry, textured tiles are used. It is necessary to prepare, to select the markup according to the developed sketch.

Figured tiles are beautiful, but require attention like when folding a puzzle Source granilit.od.ua

Natural stone. Such material has a special surface that imitates natural stone. Can be stacked in any order, can be alternated with other materials. This option allows you to achieve good results without any extra effort.

The blind area of ​​the house from a tile under a stone Source derevyanny.com

Mosaic. Hexagonal elements are used to create the appropriate pattern. You can develop any ornaments using multi-colored details.

Mosaic styling will help create different patterns. Source yandex.ru

Paving pattern

The choice of an interesting and suitable paving slab pattern may depend on a number of important factors that can greatly affect the choice of materials, their quantity and the additional work required:

relief features on which the work will be performed;

form, and size paths or equipped area;

architectural features of buildings that are around;

final appointment future site.

Properly laid out high quality material can last up to fifty years. Therefore, it is worth choosing a drawing very carefully and carefully. Basically, for private houses, rectangular tiles are chosen, which are considered classic. Patterns are created by alternating colors or sizes of applied tiles. Working with curly tiles is much more difficult, but it allows you to get a very interesting result.

A large selection of tile colors is an opportunity to create masterpieces on the tracks Source eurolain.ru

When purchasing material, it must be remembered that there will be a certain amount of tile waste in the form of trimming elements. At the same time, it is impossible to purchase tiles strictly for a certain amount for the allotted area, there should be a small margin. This is due to the fact that in the process of transportation or work with the material, marriage may occur. In addition, if there is not enough material, it will be necessary to buy more, and the next batch may already differ in shade, which will immediately catch the eye against the general background. It is also not recommended to purchase very bright tiles, since a large amount of pigment leads to a decrease in the strength of the material.

It is better if the tiles are a little muted shades Source sc-os.ru

It is possible to carefully split the tile only if it has previously been cut with a grinder. You can completely saw the necessary element, but it takes more time and materials. If the work is carried out to create a platform for parking a car, then a reinforced concrete base is sure to be equipped. The tile itself can have different thicknesses - from 4 to 10 cm. For footpaths, material 4 cm thick is used, if constant movement along the alley on bicycles is provided, then the thickness of the tile should be at least 6 cm. not less than 8 cm thick, and for the movement of trucks - not less than 10 cm.

Types of paving slabs

The design of paving stones in the courtyard of the house and not only can be carried out using different tiles, which differ in the production method, composition and shape. Some tile options may have patterns on the surface or imitate other materials, differ in colors.

Video description

Visually about the types of paving slabs in the video

Clover-shaped tiles are made of concrete with the addition of fine crushed stone. It has a very smooth surface and can be washed. Another option is English cobblestone. Such a tile can only be obtained by vibrocasting, it imitates natural stone in color and shape, mainly has a brown or gray tint. There are wave-shaped bars, they are rather narrow and elongated, with a slight bend. It is this bend on the surface that gives the impression of a wave. However, brick remains the most popular and inexpensive option. It has the correct elongated shape, is characterized by high strength and long service life. Tumbled with roundings has unlimited design possibilities, but the design is not very strong. These are the main and most common options, but there are other types.

Source uabruk.com.ua

Conclusion

Various types of laying paving slabs can be used according to standard schemes, however, original variants of schemes have recently been developed. It is very important to remember that in any case, you need to prepare a good foundation, and all robots must be carried out carefully and in compliance with technology. This is the only way to achieve excellent results. Remember that work should be carried out by a real master who knows all the features of the material, the methods and rules of laying well. If everything is done with high quality and correctly, then the result will be able to please for more than a dozen years, it will serve as a solid foundation for paths, playgrounds, parking lots. The main thing is to always adhere to all technological standards, purchase only high-quality materials and work with qualified craftsmen.

The landscaping of a country house site is not complete without the design of paths and platforms with paving slabs. Practical material provides ease of movement and adds individual features to landscape design. Types of laying paving slabs are distinguished by the complexity and variety of patterns. Studying the installation procedure and pavement design options will help to improve your own site with high quality.

Types of paving slabs

The choice of material for laying tracks is complicated by only one point - confusion in front of a wide range of products. The conditional classification of paving slabs contributes to facilitating perception. When buying, they are guided by the following criteria:

• manufacturing technology;
• the composition of the material;
• sizes;
• form.

The quality of a tile largely depends on the method of production. There are vibrocasting, vibropressing and a derivative technology - hyperpressing.

The presence of additional components in the main composition of the concrete mixture from which paving slabs are made also plays a role. It can be limestone, slate, rubber or granite chips. There are the following types of material:

• sidewalk paving stones;
• polymer sand products;
• tiles with rubber filler;
• reinforced product;
• material with a 3d effect due to the use of photo printing.

If we talk about sizes, then among square-shaped products there are specimens with side sizes of 10, 30, 40 and 50 cm. In addition, manufacturers offer a wide range of figured products or patterns with a pattern, all examples of which cannot be listed. Here are the most popular options:

Name	Dimensions, cm	Thickness cm
hexagon
Old city
Turtle

Popular options for laying paving slabs in the photo below:

Features of decorating sites and paths

A rich assortment of shapes and patterns on the tile surface allows you to apply various laying schemes. When choosing a pattern, they are guided by the recommendations of experts:

• Paving stones with the same parameters are laid according to the chosen design pattern or randomly.
• An oblong-shaped product is best laid along the track. Radius or winding paths look interesting with transverse or diagonal laying.
• To achieve an interesting design from a material of the same size, a combination of two colors allows.
• Rectangular tiles are laid with an offset identical to brickwork, transverse seams may coincide or be perpendicular to each other.

Comment! About 80% of all types of products for paving finishes allow the use of 5-6 laying samples.

When designing a car park, it is important to find paving stones that can withstand increased loads. When selecting samples of different shapes, make sure that the thickness of the material is the same. Otherwise, the paving process becomes much more complicated.

The main stages of laying

In order for the result of the design of sites and paths to please for a long time, it is important to find a suitable pattern for laying paving slabs and perform all the work with high quality.

Materials and tools that will be required during the installation process:

• crushed stone or gravel;
• cement and sand;
• directly paving slabs and geotextiles;
• wooden mallet and rubber mallet;
• watering hose;
• level;
• tamping device, broom and rake.

Preparatory process

To obtain a smooth sidewalk or platform, you must first remove the top layer of soil. If the task is impossible, the place reserved for laying paving slabs is covered with sand and gravel. Borders along the edges will ensure the safety of the embankment.

Advice! To prevent sand from waking up through the gravel, a geotextile fabric is laid between the materials.

After preparing a small trench for the path, the soil is covered with a layer of sand by 8-10 cm, after which it is rammed. In order to qualitatively compact the material, it is poured with water from a hose, which it is desirable to equip with a sprayer. Reliability of fixation of paving slabs is facilitated by a mixture of sand and cement in a ratio of 5: 1. Watering in this case is not required.

The maximum strength of the installation is ensured by the use of cement mortar, when the dry composition is diluted with water. But the process of laying tiles is much more complicated. A channel will help to level the surface, pipes or a profile act as guides.

Paving slab installation process

Before starting the installation of paving stones, it is important to prepare a laying scheme. The work is carried out in the direction "from oneself". The fitting of elements and the elimination of cracks are carried out using a wooden mallet. The acceptable gap between tiles is 1-2 mm.

After the design of the selected area, the surface is leveled with a rubber mallet. The result is checked by the level. Then the area with paving stones is sprinkled with a mixture of sand and cement, the remains are removed with a broom.

At the final stage of laying, the site is watered. Penetrating between fragments of paving slabs, the liquid provides reliable adhesion between the finishing material and the base.

The photo shows the original styling samples:

Aftercare

In order for paving slabs to please the eye with a well-groomed appearance for a long time, it needs regular maintenance. Dust and debris are swept away as needed, after rain, clods of dirt must be removed. If the paving stone is dyed, it is recommended to wash it periodically to maintain the color. Damaged elements are changed or fixed in a new way.

Advice! Ice on paving slabs must not be removed with metal objects, chemical compounds and salt should not be used. Ordinary sand will help to deal with the problem of icing.

Paving options

The sample pattern chosen for laying paving slabs determines the appearance of the site or walkway. The following types of paving patterns are widely used:

When choosing a sample for paving, they are guided by their own skills or the experience of a hired master and the possibility of time costs. Photo examples of various drawings are presented below:

Combination methods

Competent combination of several ornaments or patterns allows you to repeatedly increase the aesthetics of the picture. When combining technologies, a number of nuances are taken into account:

• The presence of curvilinear paving slabs allows you to experiment with colors and offset seams.
• The correct geometric outlines of the pavers provide unlimited combination options. The same format of paving slabs allows you to seamlessly change direction at intersections and winding paths.
• Large-patterned paving patterns look organic on wide sidewalks or playgrounds.
• Areas with storm water inlets and other storm drains deserve a special approach. It is important to think over the pattern in advance at the junction points to communications.
• A non-trivial approach, when laying a radial pattern starts directly from the storm water inlet, will make it interesting to beat the problem area.

Departure from stereotypes and creative thinking will allow you to create your own pattern of drawing by combining existing schemes. The proof of the beauty of the combined laying of paving slabs is the photo:

The nuances of the design of radius sections

The reasons for choosing paving patterns with a radius pattern or other curvilinear shapes are different. The main factor is the need to correct the geometry of the infield and improve the landscape design.

Laying paving stones is carried out by various methods, which differ in budget and labor intensity. Among the common ones:

• Seam spread. The easiest way to form a radius pattern. Paving is carried out with paving slabs in the form of bricks. The elements have a long edge across the sidewalk, the slots are wedge-shaped. In the general drawing, these gaps are practically invisible.
• The herringbone pattern is suitable; laying is also best done with a brick mold. Curvy and broken lines successfully mask imperfections in the landscape or miniature gaps between paving slabs.
• The combination technology with lawn grass looks spectacular. Paving stones are taken in any shape.

  Advice! Low-growing grass is sown between the free elements. Small-leaved timothy or bluegrass is suitable. You should be prepared for the need for regular maintenance of plantings.

• The most expensive way is trimming paving slabs. The laying of large-format paving elements is carried out in the usual manner. At the junction areas to the curb, the details are given the necessary parameters using trimming. The remaining fragments are used for laying in neighboring areas.

Samples of radius and other curvilinear patterns in the photo:

Visual perception of paved paths

Depending on the direction of laying the tiles, the visual perception of sidewalks and platforms changes. Knowing the nuances of design, you can achieve the desired effects. Experts recommend using the following tips:

• Visually reduce the length of the track is capable of paving slabs laid perpendicular to the motion vector.
• If the direction of the rows coincides with the axis of the pavement, the length of the object is optically increased.
• The effect of the “herringbone” varies depending on the chosen angle of inclination: 45 ° contributes to the visual compression of space, a right angle acts in the opposite direction.
• Rectangular bricks, laid in parallel rows, look equally impressive in compact spaces and large areas.
• Bricks placed on the end successfully create perspective. Such a laying pattern is convenient for designing a circle or as a pavement edging.

By tradition, we offer to view photos:

Finally, some practical advice from masters who often encounter the process of laying paving stones:

• Before buying paving slabs, be sure to include in the calculations possible waste when trimming.
• Refuse to purchase overly bright specimens. A spectacular appearance due to the abundance of coloring pigment can overshadow the low strength of paving slabs.
• A preliminary small incision of paving slabs with a grinder will help speed up the trimming process, after which it is carefully split.
• The design of the car park requires a reinforced concrete base.
• For exclusively pedestrian paths, a tile thickness of 4 cm is sufficient. The thickness increased by 2 cm can withstand bicycle cruises, eight centimeters is enough for parking a car. It is better for a truck to lay paving slabs 10 cm thick.

When laying paving stones, you can use ready-made samples of drawings or come up with your own version. The main thing is to properly prepare the base and not get lost in the process of designing a complex pattern or ornament. Timely and competent care of the paved area will help to extend the attractive appearance of the sidewalk.

Paving stones are a popular building material used for the improvement of pedestrian areas, blind areas, parking lots and platforms, approaches to various outbuildings. The paving stone pavement has a number of advantages over traditional asphalt:

• long service life;
• high bearing capacity;
• material strength;
• attractive appearance;
• environmental Safety;
• resistance to temperature changes.

The building materials market has a huge selection of paving slabs for paving sidewalks, garden paths, and playgrounds. Manufacturers offer classic rectangular paving slabs, hexagonal paving stones and the like.

In addition to the configuration, the consumer is provided with a large selection of sizes. The size of paving slabs is of no small importance, the smaller the dimensions of the paving stones, the more evenly the load on the coating is distributed. Small tiles are indispensable for paving arc-shaped pavements, but for arranging straight sections, the size of paving stones does not play a special role.

A variety of shapes and colors allows you to create your own original drawing. Such schemes for laying paving slabs as a rhombus, an old city, a brick are in great demand.

The process of laying paving stones does not require the use of heavy special equipment and special professional skills; laying paving stones with your own hands is within the power of a home master.

According to the material of manufacture, paving stones can be:

• concrete;
• clinker;
• granite.

The production technology of concrete paving stones consists in vibration casting of concrete with the addition of pigments and other impurities that ensure the performance of the material. Concrete pavers are highly durable, but susceptible to acidic environments. With prolonged contact with acid, traces of corrosion appear on the surface of concrete paving slabs.

Clinker pavers are made from special clay rocks by firing in a blast furnace. The product is resistant to ultraviolet rays and low temperatures, to mechanical damage, does not absorb precipitation.

Clinker pavers

Granite paving stones are made from natural stone, granite coating is the most durable and strong. The service life of granite pavement exceeds 50 years. Depending on the production technology, the following types of granite paving stones are distinguished:

• chipped - a product with uneven edges, obtained by splitting a stone block into elements;
• sawn - a stone processed on a machine is distinguished by six perfectly even edges.

Ways of laying paving stones

There are several ways to lay paving stones:

• on a pillow of sand;
• for cement-sand mixture;
• on a concrete base.

The method of laying paving stones on sand is used for paving footpaths, home gardens and other areas with a low traffic load. When arranging parking lots for cars, paving stones can be laid on gravel or on a mixture of sand and cement.

The technology of laying pavers on a concrete base is considered the most reliable; road paving laid on concrete is resistant to subsidence. The method can be used to cover road sections with heavy traffic.

Important! Paving work must be carried out in dry weather.

How to properly lay paving stones on a concrete base

Do-it-yourself paving stone laying is carried out using the following tools and devices:

• shovel;
• mallet;
• building level;
• Master OK;
• pegs;
• cord;
• broom;
• rake;
• manual or vibratory rammer;
• slats;
• Bulgarian.

Vibratory rammer

List of building materials:

• paving slabs;
• cement;
• sand;
• crushed stone;
• borders.

The paving stone laying technology includes four main stages:

• ground preparation;
• concrete base device;
• paving stone installation.

Foundation preparation

At the preparatory stage, the land is cleared of roots and various kinds of vegetation. Perform marking of the area for laying paving stones by means of pegs and a cord. Excavation is carried out, the depth of the pit is about 25-40 centimeters.

At the stage of preparing the base for paving slabs, it is worth taking care of the drainage of atmospheric precipitation. The flow of water can be organized in the transverse, longitudinal or transverse-longitudinal direction. The slope for water flow must be at least 5 0 .

With the help of a manual or vibrorammer, the earth is compacted. In order to prevent weeds from growing through the seams of paving slabs, the land is covered with a layer of geotextile.

Geotextile

The next step in the preparatory work is the creation of a sand cushion. A layer of sand is poured onto the previously prepared land area, the thickness of the layer is about 10 cm. The sandy base is moistened and rammed.

A layer of fine-grained crushed stone (crushed stone fraction 5-20 mm) is poured onto the laid sand. The surface is planned and compacted with a rammer. A layer of gravel is poured with a cement screed. After the solution has dried, a second layer of crushed stone topping is performed, bringing the crushed stone cake to a height of 15 cm.

Concrete base device

Preparation of the concrete base is carried out in the following sequence:

• along the perimeter of the site to be paving with road tiles, formwork is installed;
• prepare the concrete mix. The composition of the concrete mix includes cement, sand and crushed stone in a ratio of 1/3/2;
• a concrete mixture is poured onto a previously prepared crushed stone cake with a layer thickness of up to 5 centimeters;
• to strengthen the structure, a reinforcing mesh is laid on a concrete base;
• a second layer of concrete is poured over the reinforcing mesh. The thickness of the concrete layer is from 5 to 10 centimeters.

When arranging a concrete base, special attention should be paid to the issue of drainage. Experts recommend providing point moisture collectors or storm drains.

The laying of paving stones is carried out two to three days after the concrete coating has hardened, but before that, the curbs are installed.

Installation of curbs

Before laying the curbs, the formwork is dismantled, a trench is dug along the concrete base, and the ditch is backfilled with fine-grained gravel.

The height of the curb must correspond to the height of the finished pavement, to maintain the required level, pull the cord.

The curbs are placed on a concrete solution, this method of fixing will ensure the durability and strength of the structure. The elements are placed at a distance of about 3 mm from each other, driven into a fresh solution with a rubber mallet. The concreted curb must dry out, after the solution dries, the gap between the walls of the trench and the enclosing elements is covered with sand. The sand is moistened with water and compacted by tamping. Then you can proceed to the next stage of work.

Laying paving stones on a concrete base

There are several options for laying paving stones on a concrete base. One of them provides for the installation of paving slabs on a dry mixture of cement and sand (carving method), the second - on a cement-sand mortar.

For the installation of paving on the carving, a layer of dry cement-sand mixture is laid over the concrete base. The thickness of the layer ranges from 5 to 6 centimeters. The paving slabs are laid on the carving, in accordance with the chosen scheme, and compacted with a rubber mallet. Installation of paving slabs is carried out from the curb, moving from top to bottom towards the drain.

Paving on a cement-sand mortar is considered more reliable and durable, however, it will no longer be possible to dismantle the coating without damaging the tiles. The technology for mounting the coating on the finished mortar is as follows: a cement-sand mixture is prepared, which, with the help of a trowel, is laid out on the prepared base. The solution layer should be two to three centimeters. The paving stones are pressed into the fresh mortar, the position of the tiles is corrected with a mallet. The distance between the paving elements should not exceed 1-2 mm. Fitting paving slabs in size is carried out using a grinder. In the process of work, the correct laying horizontally checks the building level.

For paving large areas, a paving machine is used. Laying pavement with the use of mechanization can significantly increase the efficiency and speed of work.

After completing the installation work, the seams between the paving elements are covered with a dry mixture of cement and sand. With the help of water, the layer of carving is compacted. The procedure is repeated until the seams are completely filled with the mixture. The area paved with paving stones is to be used in two to three days.

Backfilling pavement joints with a mixture of cement and sand

There are many types of patterns for laying paving slabs, one of the most popular types of paving stones is the "old town". Tiles for paving paving "old town" is a set consisting of 3 or 4 elements with rounded corners. Stones vary in size and color.

The layout of paving slabs depends entirely on the imagination of the designer. One of the options for the layout of the paving stones of the old city is a combination of three colors (for example, yellow, brown and peach) in equal proportion, laid out in a chaotic manner. Another option is a paving stone laying scheme using a combination of two colors, stones of the same color are laid out along the edges of the path, which turn into a different color scheme towards the center.

We offer you to watch a video that shows the process of laying paving stones on a concrete base:

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 plates, which are produced in the form of rhombuses, squares, waves, clover, figure eight. Paving is done with chess, rhombuses, herringbone, circular patterns, wickerwork, under paving stones, curly patterns.

Features of decorating sidewalks with tiles

Sidewalks and platforms made of decorative plates are durable, wear-resistant, and environmentally friendly.

The peculiarity of the materials lies in a wide range of colors, a variety of plate shapes and patterns. The technology allows you to perform an aesthetic landscape design and easily repair the damaged area. Laying is carried out using slabs, crushed stone or gravel, cleaned sand, geotextiles, cement, dry plaster.

The work will require the following tools:

• rubber mallet;
• mallet;
• building level;
• rake;
• cord;
• pegs;
• watering hose;
• tamper;
• channel.

Features of laying and selection of patterns from paving slabs:

• elements of the same size, shade and shape can be laid out according to the scheme or in a chaotic manner;
• in collections, tiles have a short and elongated side, so it is possible to lay diagonally, across or along the path;
• laying involves the design of platforms and elongated paths;
• plates can be laid out with an offset, imitating brickwork, at a right angle, in pairs;
• for typical blocks, 5-6 laying methods have been developed;
• with the help of rectangular paving stones, you can create curbs;
• paving stones are used when decorating lawns, radii, intersections, playgrounds in the yard;
• for paving, parts of different thicknesses are not used, because. high costs for leveling the sand cushion will be required.

Varieties

Plates differ in design, shape, colors. The following varieties are in demand:

• brick;
• coil (bone);
• clover;
• square;
• eight;
• checkers;
• California;
• rhombus;
• wave.

There are several ways to display:

• on the 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, left for compaction. Slabs are laid on top of the sand layer.

The technology is carried out using water and is suitable for decorating paths in the garden. The technique allows you to prevent stagnant water in the area.

Creating a sand-cement pad is an economical and practical way. You will need to mix cleaned sand and cement in a ratio of 5: 1. The composition is distributed on the surface, then it is required to lay the plates. The top layer of the track is treated with water, which penetrates through the seams and ensures durable adhesion of the elements.

More time-consuming method of laying plates on the solution. Water is added to the mixture of cement and sand and kneaded. The composition is placed on the surface with a trowel with a layer of about 4 cm. The laying of the plates is carried out by tapping with a rubberized hammer. When the path slopes, it is required to provide for the laying of gutters and a drainage system.

Layout schemes

The pattern of paving slabs is laid out by such methods as:

• the use of monochrome blocks of different sizes and configurations;
• making a mosaic of elements of different shades;
• design of radius areas.

The schemes use combinations of checkerboard dressings, concentric rows, direction changes, etc.

Using multi-colored tiles

Paving stones for decorating paths can be monophonic or laid out randomly from blocks of different shades. The color scheme is selected according to the palette of finishing elements of the site, building. Chaotic combinations of different shades allow you to create an accent zone.

When selecting materials, the invoice is determined. To create a neutral coating, you can choose matte surfaces, the coating with the effect of artificial aging is created from boards with scuffs.

Combined options

Combined options for the layout of paving stones of two colors are simple in execution, allow you to effectively combine light and dark tones. When compiling combinations of 3-4 shades, detailed schemes are required with an accurate calculation of the dimensions of the elements. With diamond-shaped slabs in several tones, you can create original color effects on the pavement.

Simple in execution are masonry schemes with a checkerboard or herringbone. Design is used for sidewalks, footpaths, 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 areas?

Radius plots are characterized by a curvilinear shape and allow you to correct the design solution of the site, correct the uneven proportions of the allotment in the absence of even lines in a complex landscape.

For the design of allotments with a radius configuration, the following technologies are used:

• staggered laying - performed with simple brick blocks, the slabs are placed with the elongated side across the path, the elements form wedge-shaped slots;
• "herringbone" - the laying scheme 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 areas of lawn grass, elements of different configurations can be used to design allotments, grass for spaces between blocks is used undersized (timothy grass or bluegrass);
• slab trimming technology is used for large-sized tiles or collection mosaics, the method is labor-intensive, because in places of docking with curbs, the plates are cut to the required dimensions, the remaining parts are used in the design of other curved sections.

Preliminary drawing up the scheme of patterns of paving slabs will reduce the cost of finishing material.

How to choose a pattern for paving?

The shelf life of the plates in the design of the site is 40-50 years, the type of pattern should be suitable in terms of functionality and design solution.

When choosing a scheme for paving a sidewalk or platform, the following factors are taken into account:

• dimensions and shape of paths, platforms;
• landscape features of the territory;
• the general color scheme of the buildings of the site;
• the purpose of the space (play area, parking lot, footpath, roadway, etc.);
• architectural features of buildings put on.

Paving stones are used for areas that can withstand heavy loads, for parking lots, sports grounds. For complex design solutions, figured tiles are used. A complex mosaic 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.

Monochromatic elements are used in the design of areas adjacent to the path; to finish the main path, a combination of more than 2 tones is required. With height differences on the site, it is required to select a multi-stage laying.

For the design of small areas do not use curly blocks of different shades, because. a complex coating pattern will visually reduce the space. Simple elements with a smooth surface will visually expand the space. Universal for different paving patterns are squares and rectangles.

Paving options

There are these:

• brick (spoon);
• Christmas trees, wickerwork for parquet;
• checkerboard;
• diamonds;
• circular schemes;
• curly templates;
• mosaic;
• paving under paving stones;
• modular;
• linear-angular;
• linear with offset.

Brick or spoon

Paving by the type of brick laying (spoons) is simple in execution, economical in spending building materials. The combination of elements of different colors looks original. When laying out monochromatic blocks, you can create an accent by contrasting seams or borders.

Linear laying can be:

1. Without shift - located vertically or horizontally, depending on the size and shape of the land plot. Horizontal design visually expands the area, vertical - lengthens the track.
2. Laying with a shift or displacement is aesthetic, it allows you to correct uneven terrain. The joints are spaced apart. The scheme allows you to place elements horizontally or vertically.

Braids and Christmas trees

Herringbone laying is in demand and easy to perform. Elements are placed at an angle of 45 ° or a right angle is used. The paving is durable, wear-resistant, suitable for footpaths and driveways to the building. If the angle of 45° is observed, the site visually decreases, the slope of 90° visually expands the site.

Imitation of weaving is created by alternating longitudinal and transverse laying. Elements need to be combined at right angles.

To create an original design, you can alternate different shades of elements. Braiding technique helps to visually enlarge the space.

Random order

To lay out the track by random order, elements of different shades and dimensions are used. Paving is carried out arbitrarily on a cement base. Laying can be combined with geometric ornaments. Universal laying is used for multi-format plates.

Chess

The stacking of elements with a checkerboard looks impressive, the technique is suitable for decorating geometric sites, strict lines of paths. Squares for paving can be with a smooth surface or textured finish.

You will need to use 2 contrasting shades. You can alternate smooth and rough surfaces of the blocks.

diamonds

Laying with rhombuses is performed by several variants of patterns. You can design a geometric pattern, a classic ornament, a surface with a 3D effect. On a large space, you can lay out tiles in the form of a star.

To perform the technique, you will need to prepare a sketch of the sidewalk, carefully align the path and mark the surface of the earth. For the paving technique, the use of slabs of different shades (clover colors, for example) is also suitable. A combination of terracotta, light gray and white is standard.

Circle schemes

Circular patterns are suitable for paving areas of different sizes and configurations. However, a preliminary drawing up of a diagram, a calculation of the volume of materials used, the size and shape of the plates will be required. With the help of circular laying, an original platform is created next to the house, a gazebo and a space for relaxing in the garden are made out. A spectacular design is created using multi-format elements. For the scheme, wedge-shaped plates are used.

Curly templates

Laying of paving stones according to curly patterns is carried out in compliance with the direction of the elements and taking into account the color scheme of the site. 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.

For the design of the playground, you can use images of fairy-tale characters, children's drawings and paintings. Textured blocks are used to create original compositions. Before paving, it is required to draw up a sketch, level the surface of the site and mark it according to the scheme. Computer programs are used to create complex drawings.

Paving under natural stone

When paving under masonry, tiles decorated to look like stone surfaces are required. The technology is used to decorate paths in the garden, lawns, sidewalks. Masonry is carried out arbitrarily on a sand cushion. Imitation of a stone surface is suitable for a site with a house trimmed with stones.

mosaic laying

Mosaic laying is carried out using hexagonal tiles. The work will require elements of different colors. Manufacturers offer blocks with the effect of aging after special processing. Some sets offer elements of different shapes, sizes for laying out mosaics in circles, semicircles, in the form of a fan.

The laying technique is suitable for decorating paths, playgrounds. When decorating large areas, you can combine mosaic and plain masonry.

For complex laying technologies, a dry method is used (on a sand or gravel cushion), because. it is not required to strictly observe the time of work, so you can carefully lay out the mosaic pattern. With the adhesive method, it is possible to replace a damaged element or section of the pavement without dismantling the base of the masonry.