Paving slabs are a very practical material, making them popular. Paving slabs are found in almost every garden. So today, we'll discuss the different types of paving slabs available and how to beautifully lay them out on your property.
What types of paving slabs exist?
Modern production allows us to produce three types of paving slabs:
- vibrocast;
- vibration-pressed;
- granite.
Vibrocast tiles
Production involves simultaneous casting and compositional variation. The final product is a slab whose physical properties are comparable to those of natural stone.
The composition of the solution for the material is as follows:
- sand;
- crushed stone;
- cement;
- plasticizers;
- dyes.
The advantage of this type of paving slabs is that, thanks to the variety of shapes, the finished materials can also be quite different.
Vibro-pressed tiles
Unlike vibrocast tiles, vibropressed tiles are made as follows: concrete mix is placed in a matrix, and a punch is lowered on top. The vibrations compact the mix.
Among the advantages, one can note the tiles’ resistance to external factors, fully automated production, and reduced abrasion.
Granite paving slabs
Granite is a natural material that is excellent for use as tiles.
Like the previous options, it has a number of advantages:
- suitable shape for any styling scheme;
- never forms cracks or dents;
- absolutely environmentally friendly.
Paving slab laying patterns
There are many options for laying paving slabs. Today, we'll look at the most popular ones for summer cottages:
- Trays. In short, the tray pattern is a caterpillar-type pattern. Depending on the direction of the paving stones, the appearance of the path can be changed. For example, laying the paving stones lengthwise will create the impression of a long, narrow path. Laying the paving stones sideways will visually make the path appear wider but shorter.
- Braided pattern. This type of installation is classic. Using tiles of various shapes, a square is formed. The installation should be alternating: the first square is laid sideways, the second vertically, the third again lengthwise, and so on until the end of the path.
- Circular pattern. To create this pattern, you'll need a wedge-shaped tile. The tapered end of the tile will always face the inside of the circle;
- Herringbone. To create this type of path, you need to lay tiles at 45- and 90-degree angles. Besides its visual appeal, this pattern offers several advantages over other tiles. For example, a herringbone pattern significantly increases the strength of the pavement and visually reduces or expands the space depending on the angle chosen.
Advantages and disadvantages of paving slabs
We've covered the types of paving slabs and their installation patterns. Now it's time to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these materials.
Among the advantages we can note:
- availability of building materials;
- the small size of the tiles allows them to be used even in the most confined areas;
- Even a non-professional can lay paving slabs;
- high variety of shapes and colors;
- Long service life. The minimum service life of paving slabs is approximately 20 years;
- the ability to locally disassemble tiles;
- the material allows moisture to pass through perfectly, so liquid accumulation is excluded;
- Paving slabs are an absolutely environmentally friendly material.
This building material is also not without its drawbacks:
- Paving slabs never form precise and even joints. Therefore, dirt can often be seen between the pieces, giving the path an untidy and unkempt appearance;
- at sub-zero temperatures, paving slabs may freeze, making them very slippery;
- It is necessary to follow the technology of laying the material to avoid its shrinkage.
Despite its drawbacks, paving slabs are an excellent option for paving a garden path. A variety of shapes and colors allows you to find a suitable option for even the most formal exterior.